The cult horror-comedy Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 returns, starring Kartik Aaryan, Vidya Balan, Madhuri Dixit, and Triptii Dimri in lead roles. Directed by Anees Bazmee, the film is set for a Diwali 2024 release, generating significant buzz across the industry. The movie is poised to clash with Rohit Shetty’s Singham Again, as both films compete for prime screen time. While the Singham Again team secured PVRInox, India’s largest exhibitor, as its distributor to ensure more multiplex showings, Anil Thadani has played his hand by pairing Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 with Pushpa 2 for a wider reach.
The strategy appears to be paying off. According to current distribution trends, 35 single screens in the Delhi-UP region are set to prioritize Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 over Singham Again. “These 35 single screens in Delhi-UP have agreed to offer prime-time showings to Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 at a 3:2 ratio. Some are even prepared to give the film 100% of their screenings if the Singham Again team doesn’t agree to this allocation,” a senior trade source shared exclusively with Bollywood Hungama.
The trade source continued, “Diwali is all about entertainment, and audiences flock to the film with the widest reach. Securing prime-time slots in single screens is a move to ensure Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 appeals to all audience segments. By locking in key showings at these 35 single screens, Anil Thadani has made a strong statement—single screens are backing us. Diwali crowds love going to nearby theaters to catch films, whether it’s Singham or Bhool Bhulaiyaa. With BB 3 already clinching these prime spots, it’s a major win in the initial showcase battle.”
The source hinted that more distribution surprises are on the way. “Anil Thadani and his team are making strides to secure even more single screens. Meanwhile, the Singham Again team is also fighting back with appealing offers for single-screen owners. Although things currently lean in BB 3’s favor, the competition is far from over,” the source noted.
