.jpg)
Director Priyadarshan is excited to join forces with Akshay Kumar once more in the horror comedy Bhoot Bangla. This marks their first collaboration in 14 years since the release of the political satire Khatta Meetha in 2010. Renowned for his successful comedies such as Hera Pheri, Bhool Bhulaiyaa and Bhagam Bhag featuring the actor Priyadarshan shared his enthusiasm about their reunion during an interview at the IIFA Awards 2024.
"Every film I've made with Akshay has been a superhit," Priyadarshan mentioned that although many give him credit for highlighting Kumar's comedic talent he merely tapped into Akshay's wit in his films. Even though it's been a while since they worked together, he expresses optimism that Bhoot Bangla will live up to viewers expectations recognizing the difficulty of the task. "We are working after 14 years and I hope things will work. It’s a challenge.”
Priyadarshan, who collaborated with Akshay in De Dana Dan and Garam Masala, lauded the actor for being a "directors delight" and acknowledged his commitment and devotion to his craft, "He is a disciplined actor. After Amit ji (Amitabh Bachchan), he is a man who is a dedicated actor and who comes on time," the director said.
Although Priyadarshan won’t be part of Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 he expressed his trust in director Anees Bazmee whos at the helm of the successful sequel from 2022 to carry on the franchise. The third installment of Bhool Bhulaiyaa set to debut this Diwali will feature Kartik Aaryan returning as Rooh Baba alongside Triptii Dimri joining the cast.
Even though Priyadarshan has had successes in the past he expressed that he has no desire to direct sequels to his own movies. He mentioned that he has been approached for follow ups to popular films such as Hungama, Malamaal Weekly, Garam Masala and De Dana Dhan. "I think a movie should be made only once. While sequels may attract audiences initially, they often fall short of meeting the expectations set by the original," he said.
During the IIFA Utsavam event Priyadarshan received the Outstanding Contribution to Indian Cinema award solidifying his legacy in the film industry.
