Mumbai: Akshay Kumar, who is currently gearing up for the release of ‘Bhooth Bangla’, paid tribute to the late Asrani, praising his exceptional comic timing and legacy, and revealed that the film is dedicated to him.
‘Bhooth Bangla’ will feature Asrani in a posthumous appearance.
Taking to Instagram handle on Wednesday, Akshay shared a picture with Asrani from the sets of ‘Bhooth Bangla’ and wrote, “Kabhi kabhi ek tasveer sirf yaadon ka tukda nahi hoti… ek poori journey ko samet leti hai. Yeh picture humari Bhooth Bangla ki shoot se hai… Asrani ji ke saath meri second-last film. Total 12 films humne saath ki, aur har ek mein maine unse kuch naya seekha… it was like a masterclass every single time (Sometimes, a picture is not just a fragment of memories… it captures an entire journey. This picture is from the shoot of our film Bhooth Bangla… my second-last film with Asrani ji. We worked together in a total of 12 films, and with each one, I learnt something new from him… it was like a masterclass every single time).”
Praising the late actor’s comic timing, the actor added, “Comedy itni aasaan lagti thi jab woh karte the, lekin asal mein woh ek mushkil kala hai. Asrani ji uske ustad the aur hamesha rahenge. Bhooth Bangla kal release ho rahi hai… mere liye yeh sirf ek film nahi, ek yaad hai… ek tribute hai… ek salute hai uss legend ko. Asrani ji, aap hamesha yaad aayenge (Comedy looked so effortless when he performed it, but in reality, it is a difficult art. Asrani ji was its master and always will be. Bhooth Bangla releases tomorrow… for me, this is not just a film, it is a memory… a tribute… a salute to that legend. Asrani ji, you will always be remembered).”
In October 2025, the iconic “jailer” from ‘Sholay’ and celebrated comic actor Asrani passed away at the age of 84 after a prolonged illness.
His last rites were held at the Santacruz Crematorium. He is survived by his wife, sister, and nephew.
Directed by Priyadarshan, ‘Bhooth Bangla’ is a horror-comedy that also features Wamiqa Gabbi, Tabu, Paresh Rawal, and Rajpal Yadav in key roles.
The film marks Akshay Kumar’s reunion with Priyadarshan after more than a decade, raising expectations among fans eager to see the duo recreate their on-screen magic.
The film is set to release in theatres on April 17, with paid previews beginning on April 16 from 9 pm onwards.