As the festive season of Diwali approaches, excitement is in the air for Bollywood fans. One of the most eagerly anticipated movies is Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, starring Kartik Aaryan as Rooh Baba. This year, the film is all set to clash with Ajay Devgn’s Singham Again at the box office. However, while the lead actors are making headlines, it’s actually Manjulika, the ghostly character, who has become the franchise’s true star.
The Return of Manjulika: More Than Just a Ghost
The first Bhool Bhulaiyaa movie, released in 2007, featured Akshay Kumar in the lead, but it was Vidya Balan who delivered a show-stopping performance as Manjulika, the vengeful spirit. She took the character to another level, captivating the audience with her haunting portrayal. Vidya’s chilling expressions, combined with her remarkable acting, made Manjulika unforgettable.
The movie became an instant hit, and Vidya’s portrayal of Manjulika became iconic, earning a place in pop culture. It even gave rise to numerous memes, with scenes and dialogues still circulating on social media. Although Akshay was the main star, Vidya as Manjulika left an indelible mark, proving that sometimes, the character can overshadow the hero.
Tabu’s Transformation as Manjulika in Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2
In 2022, the Bhool Bhulaiyaa franchise returned with a sequel, featuring Kartik Aaryan as the new face. While Kartik took on Akshay’s role, it was Tabu who stepped into Manjulika’s shoes, leaving fans curious. The climax revealed Tabu as Manjulika, adding a surprising twist to the story. Her nuanced performance drew attention, showing a different side of Manjulika that the audience hadn’t seen before.
Tabu’s portrayal was met with praise, as she managed to carry forward Vidya’s legacy while making the character her own. She brought her signature intensity to Manjulika, and the ghost once again became the heart of the film.
Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3: Vidya Balan’s Return as Manjulika?
With the teaser for Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 now out, fans are abuzz with excitement. Kartik Aaryan, reprising his role as Rooh Baba, brings his quirky charm, but as soon as Manjulika appears on screen, all eyes are on her. Rumors have been circulating that Vidya Balan might return to her role, rekindling the magic of the original film.
Manjulika’s presence is so impactful that, regardless of who portrays her, she becomes the center of attention. The teaser hints at Vidya’s return, and fans are eager to see her reclaim the role that cemented her as one of Bollywood’s most versatile actresses. This anticipation underscores that Manjulika is the essence of the Bhool Bhulaiyaa franchise.
Why Manjulika Remains the Franchise’s True Hero
The success of the Bhool Bhulaiyaa movies can be credited to its spooky yet comedic storyline, but Manjulika is the element that ties it all together. She brings the chills, thrills, and drama that keeps the audience hooked. As Kartik Aaryan and Ajay Devgn gear up for a box-office battle, Manjulika’s return is what everyone is talking about.
The franchise’s strength lies in this character, who represents a blend of horror and mystery, with each actress putting her unique spin on it. Fans may flock to see Kartik and Ajay, but it’s Manjulika’s eerie charm that ensures they’ll leave talking about her. With Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 promising more twists, it’s clear that while heroes may change, the spirit of Manjulika will always be the star.
