The much-awaited horror-comedy film Bhooth Bangla, starring Akshay Kumar and directed by Priyadarshan, has officially been postponed to April 16, 2026. The decision was announced by co-producer Ektaa Kapoor on Thursday through an official statement, citing the exceptional box office performance of Ranveer Singh’s Dhurandhar: The Revenge. The film will now begin with paid previews at 9 pm on April 16, with the general release starting April 17.

Official Announcement

Producer Ektaa Kapoor confirmed the date change through an Instagram post and official statement. She stated, “After a collective call with our distributors and the exhibitors, we have decided on a new release date for Bhooth Bangla, 16th April, with the first show starting at 9 pm. Dhurandhar: The Revenge performing exceptionally well is heartening news for our film industry and the exhibitors feel that this shift will allow both films the space, focus and attention they deserve.”

Akshay Kumar's Bhooth Bangla Release Date Postponed

The postponement reflects industry wisdom to ensure both films receive adequate theatrical attention and audience focus. This marks the second time Bhooth Bangla has changed its release date since the original schedule was shifted from May 15 to April 10, and now to April 16-17.

Release Date Timeline

Release Schedule	Date
Original Release Date	May 15, 2026
First Postponement	April 10, 2026
Current Paid Previews	April 16, 2026 (9 PM onwards)
General Release	April 17, 2026

Film Details and Cast

Details	Information
Title	Bhooth Bangla
Genre	Horror-Comedy
Lead Actor	Akshay Kumar
Director	Priyadarshan
Producers	Akshay Kumar, Shobha Kapoor, Ektaa R Kapoor
Production House	Balaji Motion Pictures
Supporting Cast	Wamiqa Gabbi, Paresh Rawal, Tabu, Rajpal Yadav, Jisshu Sengupta, Mithila Palkar

About the Collaboration

Bhooth Bangla marks the much-awaited reunion of Akshay Kumar and director Priyadarshan after 14 years. The duo has previously delivered several iconic comedy hits, including Hera Pheri, Bhool Bhulaiyaa, Bhagam Bhag, Garam Masala, De Dana Dan, and Khatta Meetha. Known for their impeccable comic timing and chaotic storytelling, their coming together again has generated substantial anticipation among audiences and industry watchers.

The film promises to be a horror-comedy with substantial entertainment value, combining the signature Priyadarshan storytelling with Akshay Kumar’s mass appeal. With an ensemble cast featuring talented actors, the film aims to deliver both scares and laughs to audiences.

Reason for Postponement

The decision to postpone was made strategically to support the overall cinema ecosystem. Dhurandhar: The Revenge, which released on March 20, continues to dominate box office collections in its third week. Industry insiders noted that giving Dhurandhar 2 a clear window prevents audience division and allows both films to reach their maximum potential audience.

Ektaa Kapoor further explained the industry-first initiative, stating, “By moving Bhooth Bangla ahead by a week, we are ensuring that both films get the theatrical space, marketing focus, and audience attention they truly deserve. This approach benefits everyone — the filmmakers, the exhibitors, and most importantly, the audiences who get to experience each film without compromise.”

FAQs

What is the new release date for Bhooth Bangla?

Bhooth Bangla will have paid previews starting at 9 pm on April 16, 2026, with its general theatrical release on April 17, 2026. This follows the successful Dhurandhar 2 model of early previews.

Why was Bhooth Bangla’s release date postponed?

The postponement was strategically decided to avoid clashing with Dhurandhar: The Revenge, which is performing exceptionally well at the box office. Both distributors and exhibitors felt that the shift would allow both films adequate theatrical attention.

Who are the lead actors in Bhooth Bangla?

Bhooth Bangla stars Akshay Kumar in the lead role, directed by Priyadarshan. The ensemble cast includes Wamiqa Gabbi, Paresh Rawal, Tabu, Rajpal Yadav, Jisshu Sengupta, and Mithila Palkar.

Is this the first time Bhooth Bangla’s release date changed?

No, this is the second postponement. The film was originally scheduled for May 15, 2026, then moved to April 10, and now finally to April 16-17, 2026.

What is the genre of Bhooth Bangla?

Bhooth Bangla is a horror-comedy film that combines elements of supernatural storytelling with humor, promising audiences both scares and laughs from the Akshay Kumar-Priyadarshan partnership.