The trailer of Bhooth Bangla, directed by Priyadarshan and starring Akshay Kumar, was released this week, but it was not just the film that got people talking. 

At the launch, producer Ekta Kapoor shared something she says she has not seen in 31 years. 

The 50-year-old spoke about a time when a film did not work, and what followed.

She said, “I have wanted to work with Akshay sir for many years now. One thing many people don’t know is that he’s the only actor who called me up…our first film didn’t do well. He gave me a cheque and said this is money back for you…you’ve lost money.”

Describing her reaction, she added, “I was in shock. Koi nai karta. Mere 31 years mai, kisine nai kari.”

She refused the money and instead asked him to do another film. That film, she said, is now Bhooth Bangla.

The two had earlier worked together on Once Upon a Time in Mumbai Dobaara!, though she did not name it directly.

The new film also brings back the pairing of Akshay and Priyadarshan, known for films like Hera Pheri and Bhool Bhulaiyaa. Their return has created quiet curiosity among fans.

Bhooth Bangla tells the story of a man who inherits a haunted bungalow and still decides to marry in a village scared of an evil entity. Things, as expected, do not go smoothly.

The film will now be released on April 17, after a short delay.