Vidya Balan, the acclaimed actress, recently marked a milestone in her illustrious career as she celebrated the 17th anniversary of the horror-comedy blockbuster, “Bhool Bhulaiyaa.” This film, which first delighted audiences on October 12, 2007, continues to be etched in the public’s memory, primarily due to Balan’s iconic portrayal of the ghostly character, Manjulika. Directed by Priyadarshan, the movie not only showcased an ensemble cast including Akshay Kumar, Ameesha Patel, and Paresh Rawal, but it also served as the official Hindi remake of the 1993 Malayalam classic, ‘Manichitrathazhu’, starring Mohanlal.
The essence of “Bhool Bhulaiyaa” lies in its seamless blend of humor and spookiness, with Vidya Balan’s portrayal of Manjulika adding a layer of intrigue and suspense that resonated deeply with audiences worldwide. Her performance was a tour de force, blending expressions, body language, and a commanding screen presence to deliver a character that would go on to become emblematic of the film. The role of Manjulika became larger than life, carving a niche in popular culture, especially within the rapidly evolving sphere of meme culture, where her character continues to be a staple.
In the spirit of this commemoration, Vidya Balan took to her social media platforms to share her reflections and gratitude towards the film and its fans. She expressed her heartfelt thanks, writing, “Bhool Bhulaiyaa released on 12th October 2007, and who knew that 17 years later, it would be the gift that keeps on giving… that I’d still be called Monjulika wherever I go… and that all these years later, I’d get a chance to reprise the role that has given me so much! Thank you Monjulika❣️Thank you Bhool Bhulaiyaa❣️and Thank you all for all your love, today and every day 🙏❣️.”
In a thrilling revelation for her fans, Vidya announced her impending return as Manjulika in the third installment of the “Bhool Bhulaiyaa” franchise. This revelation has stirred significant excitement within the film community and among audiences, as her comeback is considered one of the most eagerly anticipated returns in Hindi cinema.
. Sharing this enthusiasm are her co-stars, with Kartik Aaryan, who is known for his vibrant promotion style, joining her in the endeavor.
The forthcoming “Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3” promises to heighten the horror and thrill associated with the series, and the newly released trailer teases an unparalleled showdown between Vidya Balan’s Manjulika and Kartik Aaryan’s character, Rooh Baba. Furthermore, to elevate the film’s allure, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 will feature stellar performances from Madhuri Dixit and Tripti Dimri, adding new dimensions to the already richly layered narrative. Helmed by director Anees Bazmee and produced by T-Series, the film promises to recapture the original’s magic while introducing fresh elements that are sure to captivate long-standing fans and newcomers alike.
As the film prepares for its Diwali release, anticipation is palpable across the film industry and amongst moviegoers who were enchanted by the original and its thrilling sequel. The return of Vidya Balan as Manjulika is not only a nod to the roots of the franchise but also an exciting promise of what is to come. Her role in Bhool Bhulaiyaa redefined the film’s impact and now, with her return, the hope is that she will once more enthrall audiences with her gripping portrayal.
The date is set, and as Vidya Balan hinted in her announcement, “Iss baar Diwali ke din aa rahi hoon main !! 💀See you in theatres on 1st Nov,” fans can begin their countdown to this significant cinematic event. The legacy of Bhool Bhulaiyaa, enriched by Vidya Balan’s dynamic performances, continues to grow, heralding an era where horror and humor dance elegantly together, marking a significant chapter in Indian cinema’s storytelling journey.
