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.”
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.”
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