Akshay Kumar and Priyadarshan, who delivered many popular comedies together in the 2000s, are reuniting after 16 years for the upcoming horror-comedy Bhooth Bangla. The film, produced by Akshay and Ekta Kapoor, also features the late Asrani in a major role. During a recent interview, Akshay recalled an advice by Asrani, which he later passed on to Rajpal Yadav.

Speaking to Screen, Akshay Kumar recalled, “In his last days, he shared a couple of things from his life. He said, ‘Akshay, don’t ever produce a film, it was the biggest mistake of my life when I put in my own money. When you produce a film with someone else’s money, it’s fine, the risk and profit is theirs. When you think of earning more for yourself by putting in your money, it never sits well.’ 

In the 1980s, Asrani produced two films — Saat Qaidi (1980) and Hum Nahi Sudhrenge (1986), both of which made no impact at the box office and caused huge financial losses for Asrani, also depleting his life savings. Asrani also directed a few other films for other producers, including Chala Murari Hero Banne (1977), Dil Hi to Hai (1992) and Udaan (1997).

Reflecting on the subject, Akshay also talked about Rajpal Yadav who came out on bail a few weeks ago after being arrested in a cheque bounce case. Talking about his Bhool Bhulaiyya co-star, Akshay added, “I hope Rajpal comes out of this situation completely. What an actor he is! When people give 100 percent, he delivers 120-140 percent. It is so much fun working with him.”

Asrani was posthumously seen in a brief cameo in Sriram Raghavan’s latest release Ikkis. The late actor is also part of Priyadarshan’s upcoming project Haiwaan, which incidentally again features Akshay in the lead. 

Meanwhile, Bhooth Bangla is set for April 10 release. The film also stars Tabu, Wamiqa Gabbi, and Paresh Rawal in important roles.