Director Priyadarshan has addressed the poor box-office performance of his latest release Haiwaan, stating that if comedy is what is demanded of him he will keep doing that in Hindi cinema, while continuing experimenting with “meaningful” films in the South.

Haiwaan, starring Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan, was released in theatres on September 11 but could only manage to earn Rs 15.08 crore at the box office.

Speaking to Hindustan Times, Priyadarshan said failures are part of a career. "I have seen enough hits and flops in a career of 48 years and 98 films. I still survived, it's part of the game," he stated.

The filmmaker said the reception of Haiwaan shows that the Hindi audiences continue to associate him mainly with comedy. He said this perception became stronger after Hera Pheri (2000).

He said he now has to keep this audience expectation in mind. "If that's the demand, why should I experiment with other kinds of films? I will play for the gallery and try meaningful movies in the South," Priyadarshan said.

Priyadarshan and Akshay Kumar are already set to work together on two more films. Both projects will be produced by Ramesh Taurani. The first film is a comedy and is expected to go on floors in January 2027. Akshay will also star in Bhoot Police 2, which will be directed by him.