Akshay Kumar’s Bhooth Bangla Gets New Release Date to Avoid Dhurandhar 2 Clash
Film delayed to avoid clash with Dhurandhar 2.
Akshay Kumar’s highly anticipated horror-comedy, Bhooth Bangla, has been officially rescheduled to release on May 15, 2026. Balaji Motion Pictures shared the update on social media with a playful note, confirming the new date to fans. The shift reflects a carefully considered strategy by the filmmakers to ensure the film reaches its audience without being overshadowed by other major releases, particularly those targeting similar family and comedy-horror demographics.
The rescheduling comes amid plans to avoid a direct clash with Dhurandhar 2, which is set to release on March 19, 2026. The first installment of the franchise created cinematic history by becoming the highest-grossing Indian film of all time in a single language, generating tremendous anticipation for its sequel. Industry insiders suggest that facing such a box-office juggernaut could have impacted Bhooth Bangla’s initial performance, making the delay a strategic move to safeguard the film’s commercial prospects.
By moving the release to mid-May, the producers hope to give Bhooth Bangla the necessary breathing room to capture audience attention and dominate ticket sales without heavy competition. The decision also ensures that the film reaches its core family audience during a relatively quieter theatrical window, increasing the likelihood of strong box office performance. According to sources close to the production, this timing allows for a more sustained run in theatres, building momentum through word-of-mouth promotion.
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Bhooth Bangla also marks the reunion of Akshay Kumar with director Priyadarshan after 14 years, following their last collaboration on Khatta Meetha. The film is set across timelines stretching from the 1950s to the present day and blends folklore with slapstick comedy—a genre that the duo once dominated. Their reunion is being touted as one of the most nostalgic collaborations in recent years, adding a strong emotional and cinematic appeal for fans of both the actor and the director.
Adding further depth to the project, the film features the late veteran actor Asrani in a key role, bringing an element of legacy and emotional resonance to the story. With the refreshed release date, excitement for Bhooth Bangla is intensifying, as audiences eagerly await the return of Kumar and Priyadarshan’s iconic brand of comedy-horror, promising both laughs and thrills on the big screen.
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