‘Significantly Different’: Makers Of The Raja Saab Respond To Bhool Bhulaiyaa Comparisons

After months of anticipation, Prabhas’ latest fantasy-horror comedy, The Raja Saab, finally premiered in cinemas on January 9. Since the trailer’s release, viewers have drawn parallels with Akshay Kumar’s Bhool Bhulaiyaa, citing elements like a palace setting, ghostly encounters, and the involvement of a psychiatrist. The film’s makers have now responded, clarifying that the two films are distinct.

In an interview with Pinkvilla, producer T. G. Vishwa Prasad addressed the speculation, claiming that The Raja Saab is a full-fledged horror fantasy with an original storyline. “We had to design a fantasy keeping India’s biggest star in mind. So, it is significantly different in terms of visual elements as well as the background story,” he said.

Actor

Riddhi Kumar also weighed in on the comparisons, noting the fundamental differences between the films. “Bhool Bhulaiyaa is an incredible film—I love it—but it was very realistically grounded. It was set in a real palace, in a real situation, with real people. The Raja Saab has a psychological element too, but it also ventures into a fantasy world. The whole point of fantasy is to create something that has never existed,” she explained.

Co-star Nidhhi Agerwal expressed her hope that The Raja Saab would resonate with audiences in a similar way to Bhool Bhulaiyaa. “I hope it creates the kind of impact that Bhool Bhulaiyaa did,” she said.

Bhool Bhulaiyaa, directed by Priyadarshan, is a psychological horror-comedy and a remake of the Malayalam film Manichitrathazhu. Starring Akshay Kumar and Vidya Balan, the film blended suspense, comedy, and psychological thrills, eventually achieving cult status despite mixed initial reviews.

The Raja Saab, written and directed by Maruthi and produced by People Media Factory and IVY Entertainment, features Prabhas in the lead role. The ensemble cast includes Sanjay Dutt, Boman Irani, Nidhhi Agerwal, Malavika Mohanan, Riddhi Kumar, and Zarina Wahab. With its mix of fantasy, horror, and comedy, the film seeks to offer audiences a fresh cinematic experience while carving its own identity in the genre.