Kartik Aaryan BREAKS his silence on Akshay Kumar comparisons: ‘I can never see myself…’

Last update:October 25, 2024, 01:56 IST

Kartik Aaryan reacts to comparisons with Akshay Kumar, saying he grew up as a fan and feels uncomfortable by the comparisons.

Kartik Aaryan took on the lead role in Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2, a film Akshay Kumar originally starred in.

Comparisons between Kartik Aaryan and Akshay Kumar have surfaced ever since Kartik took on the lead role in Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2, a film in which Akshay originally starred. Despite the buzz of their similarities, Kartik has a clear stand on the matter. In a recent interview with Bollywood Hungama, he expressed his admiration for the superstar, stating, “I have always been a huge fan of his. I will never be able to see myself on the same level.”

Kartik acknowledged that the comparisons largely stemmed from Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2, where he reprized a role in the same franchise that Akshay had made iconic in 2007. However, Kartik humbly brushed off any rivalry. “He feels a little uncomfortable when I’m compared to him,” he admitted. “But I think we should do a comedy film together because it has the potential to serve something good for the audience.”

Kartik also shared fond memories of watching the original Bhool Bhulaiyaa on TV. “The way Vidya Balan scared us in that film was really disturbing,” he said, recalling her unforgettable portrayal of Avani Chaturvedi. He also praised the performances of Akshay and Rajpal Yadav, calling the film “wholesome”.

The first installment of Bhool Bhulaiyaa was a remake of the 1993 Malayalam film Manichitrathazhu. Akshay played Dr. Aditya Shrivastava, a psychiatrist, while Vidya Balan played a woman with dissociative identity disorder who believes she is possessed by the ghost of a ballerina. The film became a cult classic, known for its perfect blend of horror and comedy.

Kartik stepped into this legacy with Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2, which released in 2022, alongside Kiara Advani and Tabu. The sequel won praise for its new take, but fans couldn’t help but compare Kartik’s role with Akshay’s iconic performance.

Now, with Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 slated for a Diwali 2024 release, Kartik will once again return to the franchise, along with Vidya Balan, Madhuri Dixit Nene and Triptii Dimri. The film will clash with Rohit Shetty’s Singham Again at the box office, making it one of the most anticipated clashes of the year.