Mumbai: The cinematic landscape has been dramatically reshaped with the latest performance of Kartik Aaryan’s film, ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3’, as it storms into the box office limelight with an unprecedented opening day collection of Rs 36.60 crore. This feat, achieved on its first day of release, not only cements Kartik Aaryan’s position as a formidable force in the entertainment industry but also elevates the film to a record-breaking status.
Helmed by director Anees Bazmee, this film marks his highest-grossing debut ever. It surpasses the opening records set by its predecessor, ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2’, which earned Rs 14.11 crore. This leap creates a new benchmark in Kartik Aaryan’s career, swiftly overshadowing his previous performances in films like ‘Love Aaj Kal’ and ‘SatyaPrem Ki Katha’. According to Taran Adarsh, a respected trade analyst, this has been a remarkable commercial success, defying all anticipation and genre expectations.
Anecdotal evidence suggests that the horror-comedy genre, which includes successful titles like ‘Munjya’ and ‘Stree 2’, is experiencing a resurgent appeal in 2024. ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3’ hence not only rides the crest of this trend but also likely influences future cinematic production within this genre.
The film has garnered immense popularity across India, especially within major cinema circuits such as PVR, INOX, and Cinepolis, amassing Rs 15.91 crore from these outlets alone. This attests to the film’s broad appeal and Kartik Aaryan’s significant pull among diverse demographics.
The narrative continues the legacy of the Bhool Bhulaiyaa franchise.
. Aaryan is joined by a stellar cast including Madhuri Dixit Nene, Vidya Balan, and Triptii Dimri. The film also brings back Anees Azmee as director, who had previously directed the successful ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2’. This synergy of esteemed talent has clearly resonated with audiences, as evidenced by their enthusiastic response.
The franchise has a storied history, with the original ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa’ released in 2007 featuring Akshay Kumar and Vidya Balan, establishing a cult status within the Indian film industry. The transition of this legacy to Kartik Aaryan in ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2’ in 2022, further bolstered by actors Kiara Advani and Tabu, has set the stage for its continued success with the third installment.
Released during the festive Diwali season, the film not only capitalizes on the holiday spirit but also faces stiff competition from Rohit Shetty’s ‘Singham Again’. The latter, teeming with an ensemble cast including Ajay Devgn, Ranveer Singh, Kareena Kapoor Khan, and Deepika Padukone, presents formidable competition in drawing audiences. Despite this, ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3’ has managed to carve out a dominant niche, underscoring the prowess of its storyline, cast, and production.
For Anees Bazmee, the opening day success marks a personal career highlight. Not only does it showcase his ability to capture audience interest but also reflects a synergistic relationship with producer Bhushan Kumar, for whom this film marks the highest opener of 2024.
In summary, the cultural and commercial milestone achieved by ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3’ is a testament to the evolving dynamics of Bollywood cinema. It exemplifies how innovative storytelling, when combined with strategic release timing and robust casting, can redefine genre expectations—paving the way for more successful ventures in horror-comedy films. As the box office records continue to reflect its mass appeal, ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3’ sets the trajectory for not only Kartik Aaryan but also the entire Indian film industry in the coming years.
