Acclaimed filmmaker Anees Bazmee displays an unwavering determination as he perseveres with the preparation for his upcoming horror-comedy film ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3’, despite a recent leg injury that necessitated surgical intervention. The shoot, which commences on March 10, is highly anticipated following the success of the previous installment ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2’, starring Kartik Aaryan.
The untimely injury occurred on February 11, when Bazmee twisted his leg in his hotel room in Kolkata after wrapping up a location scouting trip. Despite the clinician’s advice that it would take over three months to heal with a plaster, Bazmee opted for surgery, including the insertion of a steel plate, ensuring a quicker return to the director’s chair. Just two days post-surgery, the committed director was back at work, honing the intricate details of the upcoming film’s shoot.
The director’s resilience was matched by the producer Bhushan Kumar and the lead actor Kartik Aaryan’s concern for his well-being, offering to delay the film’s schedule on account of his injury. Bazmee humorously recounts his refusal, highlighting his dedication to the project.
‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2’, released in 2022, was a significant triumph for Bazmee. It featured Aaryan as Rooh Baba, a character who has claimed the ability to communicate with spirits. With such success behind them, the team is poised to enhance the franchise with ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3’. The director’s excitement is palpable as he prepares to embark on this new journey, creating a film that promises to be more expansive and thrilling than its predecessors.
A crucial element of the upcoming film is the return of Vidya Balan, who portrayed the original Manjulika in ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa’ (2007). Bazmee speaks with enthusiasm about working with Balan again, reminiscing about a prior collaboration where she agreed to do a cameo in ‘Thank You’ (2011). The prospect of her reprising her earlier role remains a closely guarded secret, fueling speculation amongst fans of the series.
Bazmee’s casting choices reflect his intimate understanding of the characters and the narrative. For the role of Rooh Baba, the filmmaker sees no alternative to Kartik Aaryan, whom he describes as a ‘director’s actor’ and praises for their strong working relationship that traces back to Aaryan’s performance in ‘Pyaar Ka Punchnama’ (2011). Bazmee’s admiration for Aaryan’s talent underscores his confidence in the actor’s portrayal of the iconic character.
The arduous process through which Bazmee is coordinating the production of ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3’ sheds light on his commitment to the craft and his creative vision. Despite the physical challenges imposed by his injury, his passion for storytelling and cinema perseveres. With an ensemble cast that melds together the talents of Aaryan and Balan, coupled with Bazmee’s directorial acumen, audiences can eagerly anticipate a cinematic experience that seeks to push the boundaries of the horror-comedy genre.
As Bazmee’s fortitude guides the pre-production phase of this eagerly awaited project, it becomes evident that the spirit of ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa’ remains unshaken amidst adversity. ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3’ is not merely a continuation of a beloved film series; it is a testament to the unyielding passion of those who infuse life into the silver screen. With the film set to roll this March, the countdown begins for another potentially spellbinding addition to the ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa’ saga.
