New Delhi: In an exclusive conversation that blended both humor and reflection, acclaimed filmmaker Anees Bazmee took audiences behind the cinematic curtains to unveil some of the most amusing incidents that marked the filming of ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2’, a hit film released in 2022. Renowned for his knack for creating humorous yet suspenseful narratives, Bazmee shared a particularly entertaining anecdote that revolved around an unexpected star of the film—a donkey.
As Bazmee vividly recalls, the donkey was not just an extra in the film; it played a pivotal role. The laughter began when the unexpected happened. Just two days into the shoot, the donkey vanished, leaving the production in a temporary lurch. Bazmee, with his characteristic humor intact, said, “It was a significant setback because the donkey had a unique physicality that was hard to replicate.” The search for the donkey turned into an adventure on its own, with the team scouring every nook and cranny to locate their four-legged co-star. He added, “We had to search high and low to find him again.”
Successfully finding the elusive donkey marked a joyous moment for the crew, allowing the filming to resume unhindered. However, Anees found himself chuckling as he repeatedly informed Kartik Aaryan, the film’s lead actor, “Gadhe ki dates nahi mil rahi hai,” which translates to “We aren’t able to get the donkey’s dates.” This somewhat whimsical obstacle turned into a running gag on set, adding a layer of comedy to an otherwise intense filming schedule.
The story took a poignant turn, however, when the donkey, sadly, passed away during the filming process. This unforeseen event posed yet another challenge as the crew had to embark on another quest to find a suitable stand-in for the donkey.
. Bazmee reflected, “It’s very difficult to work with them. They have their own plans!” His statement underscores the unpredictability of working with animals, an aspect many filmmakers can relate to.
These amusing behind-the-scenes tales serve as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of filmmaking, especially when animals are involved. They not only illustrate the hurdles Bazmee and his team encountered but also highlight the resilience and creativity needed to overcome such challenges. It’s these unpredictable moments, often hidden from the public, that add richness to the filmmaking experience and eventually become cherished anecdotes for the cast and crew.
Through these candid insights, Bazmee throws light on the quirky side of filmmaking that fans seldom get to see. ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2’ is celebrated for its spine-chilling narrative and comedic elements, but the hilarious mishaps during its making provide an additional layer of entertainment for its fans. The film’s storyline itself seamlessly blends elements of horror and comedy, and now with Bazmee’s revelations, fans can rewatch it with an understanding and appreciation of the amusing circumstances behind its creation.
Anees Bazmee’s storytelling prowess is evident not just in the films he directs, but in how he narrates these behind-the-scenes occurrences. With a career spanning decades, Bazmee has established himself as a filmmaker who believes in the power of laughter as much as in the thrill of suspense. His account of the filming of ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2’ not only highlights the professional setbacks and triumphs of working in cinema but also showcases the human aspect of its production—a reminder that, sometimes, the journey is as engaging as the destination itself.
As audiences continue to enjoy ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2’ for its intriguing plot and memorable performances, Anees Bazmee’s humorous anecdotes ensure that the film holds a special place in the hearts of those who hear about the tiny yet significant adventure involving a very special donkey. Whether it’s grappling with unexpected animal antics or crafting a critically adored story, the challenges and joys of filmmaking, as Bazmee reveals, often reside in the delightful and unforeseen episodes that unfold off-screen.
