Bhoot Police 2 Officially Greenlit with Priyadarshan at the Helm
The much-anticipated sequel to the 2021 horror-comedy hit Bhoot Police is officially moving forward, with the project now in active development. In an exciting update for fans, acclaimed filmmaker Priyadarshan has been brought on board to direct Bhoot Police 2, promising to inject a fresh and innovative approach into the franchise while preserving its signature blend of humor and supernatural scares.
Priyadarshan's Fee and Casting Overhaul Revealed
According to industry reports from Pinkvilla, Priyadarshan will command a directing fee of Rs. 21 crore for the sequel. While the core concept of a horror-comedy remains intact, the casting will undergo a complete transformation. Original stars Saif Ali Khan and Arjun Kapoor will not be returning for the second installment. Instead, the production team is actively seeking a new pairing to bring renewed energy and chemistry to the series.
New Duo to Lead Bhoot Police 2
The makers are planning to reinvent the franchise by introducing a fresh duo, reportedly considering a combination of one senior and one junior actor to create an intriguing dynamic. The film is described as a proper horror-comedy with a strong theatrical treatment, staying true to the genre's roots while offering a novel experience. Production is slated to commence by the end of this year, pending finalization of casting and completion of pre-production work.
Priyadarshan's Upcoming Project: Haiwaan with Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan
In related news, Priyadarshan is also set to direct the horror thriller Haiwaan, which marks the on-screen reunion of Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan after years. The project has generated significant buzz since its announcement. Interestingly, Priyadarshan had initially hoped to cast Amitabh Bachchan in the film but was unable to secure his involvement. In a previous interview with Rediff, the director expressed regret over missed collaborations, stating, "I have never been able to collaborate with writer M.T. Vasudevan Nair, and I have never been able to work with Mr Bachchan. Many times, we came very close to working together, but somehow the projects never materialized."
Reunions and Production Details for Haiwaan
Haiwaan reunites Priyadarshan with Akshay Kumar after their 2010 film Khatta Meetha, with the duo also having worked together on Bhooth Bangla. The film also brings Akshay and Saif back together after their 2008 collaboration in Tashan. Produced by Venkat K Narayana of KVN Productions and Shailaja Desai Fenn of Thespian Films, the movie will feature Saiyami Kher in a pivotal role and is scheduled for release in 2026.
This development underscores a busy period for Priyadarshan, who is balancing multiple high-profile projects while aiming to deliver entertaining and genre-defining films for audiences. Fans can look forward to both Bhoot Police 2 and Haiwaan as significant additions to the horror and thriller landscapes in Indian cinema.
