Bhool Bhulaiyaa was one of the most successful films of the year 2007. Starring Akshay Kumar, Vidya Balan and Shiney Ahuja in lead roles, the Priyadarshan directorial opened to great critical response and did phenomenally well at the cash counter.
Twelve years after the release and humongous success of Bhool Bhulaiyaa, producer Bhushan Kumar has announced its sequel Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2. News of a sequel to the 2007 horror comedy has already garnered a lot of curiosity among the audience and now everyone is awaiting its release.
While the original film was headlined by Akshay Kumar, Vidya Balan and Shiney Ahuja, the makers have roped in Kartik Aaryan and Kiara Advani to play the lead pair in Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2. Several other actors have also been roped in to play supporting roles in the film.
In the meantime, we also hear that the original leading lady of the film, Vidya Balan, might also be making an appearance in the sequel. Yes, you heard it absolutely right! Buzz has it that Balan will return to the sequel to recreate her popular song ‘Aami Je Tomar’. Originally sung by Shreya Ghoshal, the song is still popular among listeners of Hindi film music.
Director Anees Bazmee told a leading entertainment portal that it could be Aaryan, Advani or even Balan dancing their hearts out to the song as it and the title track will be recreated for the film.
National Award-winning actor Vidya Balan was last seen in Mission Mangal (2019). Also starring Akshay Kumar, Sonakshi Sinha, Nitya Menon, Kirti Kulhari and Taapsee Pannu in lead role, the movie was loosely based on the life of scientists at the Indian Space Research Organisation who contributed to the Mars Orbiter Mission, India's first interplanetary expedition. Mission Mangal did terrific business at the box-office and went on to join the coveted club of Rs. 200 crores.
Pankaj Dheer, famed for playing Karna in BR Chopra’s Mahabharat, dies after a battle with cancer.
Actor also appeared in films like Sanam Bewafa and TV shows including Chandrakanta and Sasural Simar Ka.
Remembered for his cultural impact, with temples and statues dedicated to his portrayal of Karna.
Beloved for portraying karna
Veteran actor Pankaj Dheer, celebrated for his role as the warrior Karna in BR Chopra’s Mahabharat, passed away on 15 October 2025 at the age of 68. The news was confirmed by his friend and colleague Amit Behl as well as CINTAA (Cine & TV Artistes’ Association), which issued a statement expressing profound grief.
According to sources, Dheer had been battling cancer for some time. Despite undergoing major surgery and fighting the disease, it relapsed a few months ago, leaving him extremely unwell. His cremation was held on the same day at Vile Parle (W), Mumbai.
A versatile career in film and television
Beyond Mahabharat, Dheer appeared in films such as Sanam Bewafa and Baadshah, and TV shows including Chandrakanta and Sasural Simar Ka. He also worked as a director, helming the film My Father Godfather, and founded the Abhinay Acting Academy, mentoring aspiring actors.
Dheer’s portrayal of Karna left a lasting impression on audiences, making him one of Indian television’s most recognisable figures from the 1980s.
Cultural legacy and devotion
In interviews, Dheer spoke about the enduring popularity of his character, noting that statues and temples were built in his name. He revealed that he is worshipped in two Karna Mandirs, one in Karnal and another in Bastar, where an eight-foot statue honours his character.
He reflected: “People have loved me and adored me over the years. Even in the history books of schools, if they have a reference to Karna, they have my picture there. So, as long as these books are printed, I will always be their reference as Karna.”
Pankaj Dheer is survived by his wife Anita Dheer and son, actor Nikitin Dheer. His work continues to influence Indian television and the cultural memory of the Mahabharat epic.
By clicking the 'Subscribe’, you agree to receive our newsletter, marketing communications and industry
partners/sponsors sharing promotional product information via email and print communication from Garavi Gujarat
Publications Ltd and subsidiaries. You have the right to withdraw your consent at any time by clicking the
unsubscribe link in our emails. We will use your email address to personalize our communications and send you
relevant offers. Your data will be stored up to 30 days after unsubscribing.
Contact us at data@amg.biz to see how we manage and store your data.