New Delhi: Veteran filmmaker Priyadarshan recently opened up about two surprising missed collaborations with Bollywood legends Shatrughan Sinha and Rishi
Kapoor. In a candid conversation, the director revealed that both actors once declined to work with him for a rather unusual reason.
Priyadarshan, who is currently gearing up for the release of his upcoming film Bhooth Bangla starring Akshay Kumar, recalled how his strict shooting schedule created unexpected hurdles in the past.
Priyadarshan talks about Shatrughan Sinha and Rishi Kapoor rejecting to work with him
The filmmaker explained that the situation dates back to the success of his Malayalam film Cheppu starring Mohanlal. According to him, Shatrughan Sinha had watched the film and was keen to collaborate.
In an exclusive interview with News9Live, he stated, “I made a film called Cheppu with Mohanlal. It was a huge hit. Shatru ji happened to see that film and wanted to meet me. When we met, he told me that he liked the film and it suited him as well. I told him that I had a problem because I start my shootings at seven o’clock in the morning. Because I believe in shooting in a good light. He said, ‘I don’t think I will be able to come at seven o’clock.’”
Priyadarshan added, “At that time, I didn’t want to compromise on that but he’s someone who called me first. Actually, I just went to see Shatrughan Sinha. I used to watch movies and was a fan of all these actors. When I met them, I felt very good. I didn’t care whether I made a film with them or not. I was happy to just meet them. The film with Shatru ji didn’t happen but producer Pranlal Mehta made Muskurahat with me.”
The director also shared a similar anecdote involving Rishi Kapoor. The late star reportedly had the same concern about the early shooting schedule.
“I met Rishi Kapoor also for a film but he also said that he’d never come for a shooting at seven o’clock. When I met him a few years ago, he asked me, ‘Are you still shooting at seven o’clock?’ I said, ‘Yes sir,’” the filmmaker revealed.
Priyadarshan went on to build one of Indian cinema’s most celebrated filmographies. Now, the director is returning to the horror-comedy genre with Bhooth Bangla, marking his long-awaited reunion with Akshay Kumar after their last collaboration on Khatta Meetha.
About Bhooth Bangla
Scheduled for release on April 10, 2026, Bhooth Bangla features an ensemble cast including Paresh Rawal, Rajpal Yadav, Asrani, Tabu and Wamiqa Gabbi. Produced by Akshay Kumar along with Ekta Kapoor and Shobha Kapoor, the film promises a blend of supernatural thrills and Priyadarshan’s trademark comedy.
