Ram Gopal Varma Discloses 'Bhoot' Filming Location Still Vacant Two Decades Later
In a recent revelation, acclaimed filmmaker Ram Gopal Varma shared intriguing details about his iconic 2003 horror film 'Bhoot,' starring Ajay Devgn, Urmila Matondkar, Nana Patekar, Rekha, and others. The movie, which remains a benchmark in Bollywood horror, continues to send shivers down spines, and Varma's anecdotes add a chilling real-life twist to its legacy.
Festival Interaction Unveils Haunting Truth
During the Red Lorry Film Festival, where 'Bhoot' was screened, Ram Gopal Varma engaged with fans on the second day. He disclosed that the apartment used for filming in Lokhandwala, Mumbai, has remained unoccupied for over 20 years since the movie's release. Originally, the team considered shooting in a haveli, but they opted for a more relatable setting, as Varma explained, "The more relatable it is, the more palpable it is."
Filming Details and Lasting Impact
The entire movie was filmed in just 30 days within a single apartment in 2002. Varma remarked, "I want to tell you an interesting tidbit. The film was shot in 2002. It’s been more than 20 years, and even today, that flat is still vacant! It became quite famous after the film was released, and nobody wants to stay in that apartment. It’s in the Lokhandwala Complex. I forgot the name of the building." This vacancy underscores the film's powerful impact and the superstitions surrounding haunted locations.
Overview of 'Bhoot' and Its Legacy
Directed by Ram Gopal Varma, 'Bhoot' was a massive box office success upon its release on May 30, 2003. The plot follows a young couple, played by Ajay Devgn and Urmila Matondkar, who move into a new apartment only to encounter supernatural events that lead to psychological turmoil. The cast also included Fardeen Khan and Tanuja in key roles.
Despite the original's success, the sequel, 'Bhoot Returns,' released on October 12, 2012, failed to replicate its predecessor's achievements and performed poorly at the box office. This contrast highlights the enduring appeal and unique fear factor of the first installment.
The story of the vacant apartment adds a layer of real-world eeriness to 'Bhoot,' cementing its status as a timeless horror classic in Indian cinema.
