'Bhooth Bangla 2' on the cards? Makers eye franchise after warm audience reception

Akshay Kumar and director Priyadarshan's horror-comedy 'Bhooth Bangla' may just be the beginning of a full-fledged franchise. Following an encouraging response from family audiences since its April 17 release, the makers are now reportedly exploring a sequel.According to an India Today report, positive reception to 'Bhooth Bangla' has set the wheels in motion. The report stated, "Given the love and response that 'Bhooth Bangla' has received from families, the makers are definitely exploring the idea of taking the franchise forward. It's an exciting space, and thus a sequel looks very much on the cards."While the project is still at an early stage, producer Ekta Kapoor's keenness on the horror-comedy genre is reportedly a key driver. The report added that she "is looking at a world to revisit with more stories."The film follows Arjun, played by Akshay Kumar, who inherits a haunted ancestral mansion in the fictional village of Mangalpur. As he prepares for his sister Meera's wedding, portrayed by Mithila Palkar, a series of unsettling supernatural events throw everything into chaos. At the heart of the mystery is Vadhusur, a sinister demon connected to a forgotten underground temple.As Arjun digs into the mansion's dark history, he encounters frightened villagers and a mysterious spirit trapped in a tree. The film roots its horror in Indian mythology, folklore, and ancient ritual texts while staying true to Priyadarshan's trademark slapstick and high-energy comedy.Akshay Kumar plays the role of Arjun Acharya, while Wamiqa Gabbi appears as Priya. The ensemble cast also includes Tabu as Yashodha, Paresh Rawal as the memorably named Jagdish Manikchand Roopkamal Kewalramani, and Rajpal Yadav as Sunder 'Balli' Bajwa. Jisshu Sengupta, Manoj Joshi, and the late veteran actor Asrani round out the cast.The movie was released in theaters on April 17, 2026. As of now, it has raked in Rs 117 crore at the box office globally.