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Priyadarshan and Akshay Kumar Reunite for ‘Bhooth Bangla’: A Dark Dive into Folklore and ancient methods of Black Magic!

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Swati Bhat

Priyadarshan and Akshay Kumar Reunite for ‘Bhooth Bangla’: A Dark Dive into Folklore and ancient methods of Black Magic

The iconic duo that redefined Indian comedy is back, but this time, the laughs might come with a side of chills.

After a 14-year hiatus, Priyadarshan and Akshay Kumar are reuniting for Bhooth Bangla, a project that is already showed waves through the fans to our Indian film industry. While fans initially expected another Bhool Bhulaiyaa, the makers have teased something far more atmospheric. This isn't just a "haunted house" flick; it’s a deep dive into the courageous world of Indian folklore and black magic.

The Director Mr. Priyadarshan stated, “Unlike the slapstick horror-comedies, audience will see Bhooth Bangla is being framed as a horror-fantasy thriller and the narrative supports heavily into rural superstitions and folklore. The audience will experience the ancient practices of real black magic.” Mr. Priyadarshan is highly known for his masterful pacing and technical brilliance, is reportedly focusing on "mood-based horror". He added, “You can expect long shadows, eerie silence, and the kind of suspense that gets under your skin!”

The Akshay-Priyadarshan harmony gave us cult classics like Hera Pheri, Garam Masala, and Bhool Bhulaiyaa. However, Bhooth Bangla represents a shift. Priyadarshan has expressed his desire to explore the supernatural through a more traditional, "earthy" lens, moving away from the gloss of modern horror and back to the storytelling roots of Indian suspense.


Production and Release-

Produced by Balaji Motion Pictures, the film is expected to feature a massive ensemble cast, staying true to Priyadarshan’s signature style of having multiple eccentric characters driving the plot. With filming slated to progress through 2025, the buzz is already positioning this as a major box-office contender.

If you’re a fan of suspense thrillers that trade cheap jump scares for a rich, haunting atmosphere, Bhooth Bangla is likely the most anticipated title on your radar.





The movie offers a compelling story grounded in patriotism, commitment, and the intricacies of the system. The film's music will give you goosebumps!

16.12.2025 - Mumbai, India: Onarika Entertainment, a prominent figure in the event management sector known for successful endeavors such as Onarika Mr. Rajasthan, Onarika Miss Jaipur, Onarika Miss Rajasthan, and Onarika Mr. Junior, is pleased to announce its inaugural venture into film production with the action-suspense thriller, "JE BAAT".

A Visionary Team of Je Baat-

Onarika Entertainment Unveils Thrilling Patriotic Action Film "JE BAAT"

(L to R) Writer Amit Shrivastav, Actor Prashant Narayanan, Producer Mahipal Singh Chauhan, Music Director Rajendra Shiv, Producer Pradhummn Bajaj, Director Rahul Kanawat, Actor Dinesh Lamba


The film will be helmed by Mr. Rahul Kanawat, a former actor who transitioned to directing, beginning his career with the movie ‘Saajan’ alongside stars such as Salman Khan, Madhuri Dixit, and Sanjay Dutt, among others. Mr. Kanawat has refined his skills by collaborating with legendary directors such as Subhash Ghai, Lawrence D'Souza, Rajkumar Santoshi and many more. His commitment and enthusiasm for film direction have been clear throughout his career, as he was always found behind the camera, discussing and learning with the other H.O.D., driving his ambition to become a successful director.

Mr. Kanawat expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "JE BAAT is an action suspense thriller with a strong patriotic core. It will resonate deeply with the mass audience. The film is set to be shot in the picturesque landscapes of Rajasthan. The songs are designed to evoke strong emotions. The theme of patriotism is prominent, and audiences will be captivated. When the audience leaves the theater, they will carry with them a heightened sense of patriotism, complemented by unforgettable music.”

The narrative of Je Baat is created by the renowned writer Amit Shrivastav, known for producing films under his banner Real Square Film, such as Pappu Paas Ho Gaya (featuring Jackie Shroff) and Kyun Hua Achanak. He also serves as the Production Designer for Je Baat. Mr. Shrivastav shared his inspiration, “The story of ‘Je Baat’ is entirely fictional, yet it profoundly captures the struggles of the police and army.”

Onarika Entertainment: From Events to Entertainment

The film is produced by Mr.Mahipal Singh Chauhan and Mr.Pradhumn Bajaj, who have been business partners for 15 years and co-founded Onarika Entertainment to align their creative interests and support significant projects like ‘Je Baat’.

Mahipal Singh Chauhan, a prominent name in the mining industry and a well-known businessman from Rajasthan who has transitioned into film production, discussed the film’s central conflict, stating, "The movie tackles the problem of power being misused. We are dedicated to giving our best, first to ourselves and then to our viewers."

This project is Pradhumn Bajaj's first venture as a film producer. He shared his dedication to the endeavor, stating, "It required almost a year of careful planning and execution, and I readily agreed to partner with Director Mr. Rahul Kanawat. Our commitment is to uphold the highest standards of excellence in our projects."

If the story and direction are the soul of the film, then the heart of the film is the music, composed by the seasoned music director Mr. Rajendra Shiv. When questioned about his experience crafting the music for 'Je Baat', he confidently remarked, "I assure you that the songs will become favorites in your playlists, and what you have heard today during the recording is just the beginning; there is more to come."

During the event, the esteemed Director/Producer Mr. Rajkumar Santoshi graced the occasion with his presence, supporting one of his favorite actors turned Director Rahul Kanawat, extending heartfelt wishes for the project and appreciating a preview of a song. Mr. Santoshi conveyed his best wishes to the entire team of "Je Baat". The beautiful lyrics are penned by renowned lyricists Asad Ajmeri and Taufiq Palvi and performed by one of Bollywood's esteemed singers, Mr. Mohammed Irfan, whose melodious voice will undoubtedly feature in your playlists by next year.

‘JE BAAT’ is anticipated to be a landmark achievement for Onarika Entertainment, Rahul Kanawat, and a thrilling cinematic experience for audiences. “We are set to premiere in cinemas in 2026.”






Mumbai [India], September 27, 2023: Rasika Dugal, who is making waves internationally with her work, got a special award at The Chicago South Asian Film Festival 2023 (CSAFF) for her portrayal in 'Lord Curzon Ki Haveli'.


Pritish Bagdi

A global platform showcasing South Asian culture, talent, and viewpoints via cinema, art, and discussions, The CSAFF honored Rasika Dugal with a special honor for her notable contribution to 'Lord Curzon Ki Haveli'. She received the renowned SAFA Award while there, confirming her caliber as an artist.

Rasika Dugal's communiqué on receiving the award, "It's really an honor to be here today. The last time I came to Chicago was 12 years ago for the Chicago International Film Festival with a very independent film that we had shot over weekends or whenever we had money. It was the first time at that festival that my work was reviewed by critics. Fortunately, the reviews were glorious😀 and just reading those words about my work was so encouraging. So yes, Chicago has been very kind to me. I feel very fortunate that 12 years later, I am here again in the city for another festival with another independent film. I’m very proud that in my journey as an actor, I get to continue to do films that bring me here while also getting opportunities to do more mainstream work that actors like me now have access to (thanks to the streaming services). It is because of festivals like these, that artists like me are encouraged. Thank you to CSAFF for their curation and for respecting and nurturing our work”

'Lord Curzon Ki Haveli' is a black comedic thriller that has captivated audiences and garnered critical accolades on the festival circuit. It takes readers on an intriguing journey through the Asian diaspora in the United Kingdom, delving into topics of identity and gender within the context of an engrossing mystery. 'Lord Curzon Ki Haveli' has been picked as the closing night film for the Chicago South Asian International Film Festival.



What is the SAFA award?

South Asian Federation of Accountants (SAFA) was founded in 1984 to serve the accounting profession in the South Asian region and to maintain its prominence in the accounting world




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