Bhagam Bhag 2: Paresh Rawal confirms Manoj Bajpayee has replaced Govinda, 'We’ll miss him... Akshay-Manoj pairing will be unique'

The casting changes in Bhagam Bhag 2 have taken fans by surprise. Reports of Govinda being replaced by Manoj Bajpayee in the sequel to the cult comedy sparked mixed reactions, with some welcoming the shift and others feeling nostalgic about the original cast. Now, Paresh Rawal, who plays a pivotal role in the franchise, has opened up about the developments.

Paresh Rawal confirms casting change

Speaking to Bollywood Hungama, Paresh Rawal confirmed that Manoj Bajpayee has indeed stepped in to replace Govinda in the sequel. Talking about the new lead pairing, Rawal said, “It’ll make for a different and unique combination.” He was referring to the coming together of Akshay Kumar and Manoj Bajpayee, a pairing that has not been seen before in a full-fledged comedy.

‘We’ll miss Govinda,’ says Rawal

Addressing Govinda’s exit from the project, Rawal admitted that he was unaware of the reasons behind the actor’s departure. “I genuinely have no idea,” he said, before adding, “However, we’ll miss Govinda.”

Govinda has largely stayed away from the big screen since his 2019 film Rangeela Raja. While fans were hopeful of a nostalgic reunion in the sequel, the makers appear to have opted for a different creative direction.

Paresh Rawal on playing a double role

Rawal also expressed excitement about portraying a double role in Bhagam Bhag 2. “I am excited. Maza aayega. Dhamaal hoga!” he said enthusiastically.

This, however, is not new territory for the veteran actor. He has previously played double roles in films like Platform (1993), Andaz Apna Apna (1994), Janam Kundli (1995), and Chor Machaye Shor (2002). In Oye Lucky! Lucky Oye! (2008), Rawal even took on a triple role.

What the sequel aims to deliver

Directed by Raaj Shaandilyaa, Bhagam Bhag 2 aims to retain the madcap energy of Priyadarshan’s original while introducing a fresh narrative layer. Joining Akshay Kumar and Paresh Rawal is actress Meenakshi Chaudhary, who returns to Hindi cinema as the female lead after Upstarts (2019). She is paired opposite Akshay Kumar in the film.



Interestingly, the makers are still on the lookout for a leading lady opposite Manoj Bajpayee. While official confirmation from the production house regarding the casting overhaul is awaited, preparations are already underway, with the film’s shoot scheduled to begin next month in Mumbai.Get the latest entertainment updates from the Times of India, along with the latest Hindi movies, upcoming Hindi movies in 2026 , and Telugu movies.”