Feb 05, 2026 6:31pm IST
Manoj Bajpayee Replaces Govinda in ‘Bhagam Bhag 2′; the Priyadarshan franchise to be directed by Raaj Shaandilyaa (EXCLUSIVE)
In 2006, Akshay Kumar, Govinda and Paresh Rawal's “Bhagam Bhag” became an instant favourite among audiences, largely due to their crackling on-screen chemistry and impeccable comic timing. The film's chaotic slapstick humour, combined with its sharp, witty dialogues, has since earned it a cult status in the Bollywood comedy genre.
Now, two decades later, “Bhagam Bhag” is returning with a sequel, albeit with changes in casting and creative team.
Variety India has exclusively learned that Manoj Bajpayee has joined Akshay Kumar and Paresh Rawal in “Bhagam Bhag 2”. He has been brought on board in the place of Govinda. The sequel is said to have a fresh storyline centered on mistaken identities, comedy of errors, and escalating chaos, delivering a thrilling madcap adventure while staying true to the spirit of the original. Shooting begins next month in Mumbai.
Related Stories
Meenakshi Chaudhary, widely known for her performances in “Guntur Kaaram”, “The Greatest of All Time”, “Lucky Bhaskar” and “Sankranthiki Vasthunam”, will play the leading lady opposite Akshay. This will mark her comeback to Hindi after her debut comedy drama, “Upstarts” (2019). Talks are on for actresses to be cast opposite Manoj.
“Bhagam Bhag 2” will be directed by Raaj Shaandilya, taking on the directorial responsibility from Priyadarshan. Raaj has established a strong reputation for contemporary commercial comedy with his “Dream Girl” film franchise and is expected to bring his own signature comedic style while retaining the original's essence, blending comedy with a suspense thriller element. Priyadarshan was apparently not retained for the sequel, as he's already doing three back-to-back films with Akshay Kumar — “Bhoot Bangla”, “Haiwaan” and “Hera Pheri 3”.
Akshay is set to begin shooting for “Bhagam Bhag 2” after completing the ongoing schedule of Anees Bazmee's comedy entertainer. Following that, he will head to Rohit Shetty and Ajay Devgn's “Golmaal 5”. Akshay's upcoming slate is packed with comedies, reflecting his strong return to the genre, and the addition of “Bhagam Bhag 2” has further heightened anticipation among his fans, always hungry for nostalgic, laughter-filled entertainment.
Comments are moderated. They may be edited for clarity and reprinting in whole or in part in Variety publications.