New Delhi — In an exclusive interview that left fans chuckling, acclaimed director Anees Bazmee took a step back to reminisce about the hilarious behind-the-scenes events during the making of the 2022 blockbuster ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2’. As fans and film enthusiasts listen with amusement, Bazmee’s tales showcase the genuine unpredictability and joy that come with bringing such a film to life, particularly one filled with thrills and laughs.
A particular story that stands out is about an unexpected star of the film—a donkey. This animal wasn’t merely a background presence; instead, it played a vital and unique role in the narrative. Bazmee’s recounting of this particular filming challenge adds a touch of humor to the already engaging film production process. The director vividly described the scenario that played out after just two days of filming: their indispensable four-legged actor decided to go on an unscripted adventure, leaving the crew in a state of panic.
“The disappearance of our donkey was a substantial setback,” Bazmee revealed, a smile playing on his lips. “The donkey was not something easily replaceable; it had a certain physicality that was crucial to the story we were trying to tell.” His words painted a picture of the commotion that ensued as the team embarked on what could only be described as a wild goose chase—or, in this case, a wild donkey chase.
Despite the unforeseen hurdle, the team eventually succeeded in tracking down their elusive co-star—a victory that allowed production to resume its course. However, the situation wasn’t merely resolved upon the donkey’s return; Bazmee humorously recounted a running joke that emerged from the ordeal. He would often find himself in a playful predicament, repeatedly explaining to the film’s leading actor, Kartik Aaryan, “Gadhe ki dates nahi mil rahi hai,” translating to “We aren’t able to get the donkey’s dates.” This phrase became a comedic refrain on set, adding to the light-hearted camaraderie among the cast and crew.
Tragedy struck, however, when the beloved donkey unexpectedly passed away during the production, causing another search to commence, this time for a suitable stand-in.
. Bazmee reflected on this aspect of filmmaking, which can oscillate between challenging and amusing. “It’s very difficult to work with animals,” he admitted. “They have their own plans!” These candid reflections provide a unique insight into the eccentric elements that often accompany movie-making, where unpredictability can become a regular guest on set.
The incident with the donkey highlights the broader concept of overcoming unforeseen circumstances in the film industry. Filmmaking is an evolving process, peppered with challenges that test the creativity and resilience of everyone involved. ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2’ wasn’t just a story on screen; it became a living narrative behind the camera as well, enriched by the shared experiences of those creating it. As Bazmee shared, these moments of spontaneity and unpredictability are essential—they fuel creativity and allow filmmakers to bond, laugh, and improvise in equal measure.
Fans of ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2’ now have more reasons to appreciate the film beyond its intriguing plot and engaging performances. Anees Bazmee’s behind-the-scenes stories add a layer of depth, transforming the film into a treasure trove of anecdotes that resonate with laughter and showcase the distinctive character of its production journey. Through Bazmee’s humorous recollections, audiences are drawn into the off-screen world that defies scripting, where real-life unpredictability enhances rather than hinders the storytelling process.
This glimpse into the quirkiness of filmmaking presents a compelling narrative of its own, where a misplaced donkey becomes as significant as the climatic twists within the film. Viewers are reminded that the magic of cinema lies not just in what appears on screen, but also in the amusing, intricate, and sometimes chaotic process that brings these stories to life. As audiences continue to enjoy the film’s mystery and humor, Bazmee’s playful recollections ensure that ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2’ will be remembered not only for its on-screen thrills but for the delightful, unscripted moments that unfolded behind the scenes, forming an integral part of its legacy.
