Kartik Aaryan: We were laughing when rumours were flying thick

Kartik Aaryan with Kiara Advani in the film

How do you better a film that has remained immensely popular over the years? You retain its essence, when you are making its sequel. The makers of Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 stuck to this cardinal rule while giving shape to the Kartik Aaryan, Tabu and Kiara Advani-starrer. The leading man is ecstatic that the horror comedy, which was in the making for nearly two years due to the pandemic, is ready for the marquee. "We shot for 15 days in Lucknow and Jaipur in March 2020. Suddenly, the crew of 300 was told to stop work because a lockdown was being imposed. We packed up and left in a day because cities were getting sealed," recounts the actor, adding that they were concerned about the film's fate at the time.

Kartik Aaryan. Pic/Instagram

With the sets being pulled down several times amid the pandemic, rumours were rife that Anees Bazmee's directorial venture would be shelved. "Even when the rumours were flying thick, we were laughing about it. We steadfastly believed that we would make the movie and take it to the world. I remember when I first read the script, I knew I wanted to do it. It would be stupid to let this big an opportunity pass. I believe a good film is a good film, regardless of whether it's an independent movie or the second edition of a franchise. This is a sequel, but it will have its own identity."

Surely, he must feel the pressure of following up Akshay Kumar and Vidya Balan's Bhool Bhulaiyaa (2007), which was a box-office hit.

Kartik Aaryan. Pic/AFP

But the actor has an optimistic take. "I feel I am getting the opportunity because people believe in me. It makes me happy that producers are showing faith in me. They think I can [front] a film of this nature. I have seen this film as a kid, so to do this is even more special for me."

While many producers are betting big on him, Aaryan has also had a not-so-pleasant experience with some. Last year, after the actor exited Dostana 2, grapevine was abuzz about his rumoured fallout with Karan Johar. The actor has since maintained a dignified silence on the front. How does he stay sane amid the toxic nature of the industry and star power? "Doesn't that happen everywhere? It's there as much in corporate structures. [The only difference is that] in Bollywood, it's visible. I take every hit with a pinch of salt. I have always believed that my work will speak for me. I want to remain unperturbed by the pressures and everything that is said. I like to work, and take my time off. Things will always happen. It's in your hands to be sane, and I choose to be sane."