Since the release of its trailer, the upcoming Prabhas-starrer The Raja Saab has generated significant buzz and a largely positive audience reaction. However, certain elements in the preview, such as the palace setting, supernatural themes, and the inclusion of a psychiatrist character, have led some viewers to draw parallels with the popular Akshay Kumar comedy-horror Bhool Bhulaiyaa.
Makers Set the Record Straight
In a recent interaction, the film's creative team directly addressed these comparisons. Producer T. G. Vishwa Prasad clarified that any similarities are purely superficial. Speaking to Pinkvilla, he emphasized the distinct nature of their project. “It’s a full-on horror fantasy with a completely different background story,” Vishwa Prasad stated. He explained that the film was designed as a grand fantasy vehicle for India's biggest star, making it significantly different in both visual style and narrative foundation from the earlier hit.
Fantasy vs. Reality: A Core Distinction
Actress Riddhi Kumar, who plays Anitha in the film, echoed this sentiment while expressing her admiration for Bhool Bhulaiyaa. She highlighted a fundamental creative departure. “Bhool Bhulaiyaa is an incredible film, I love it, but it was also very realistically based. It was based on a real palace, in a real situation with real people,” she explained.
Riddhi Kumar elaborated on the world of The Raja Saab, noting, “This also has a psychological aspect, yet also a very realistic horror aspect, and the world that you venture in is a fantasy world.” She concluded by drawing a clear line, stating, “The whole point of fantasy is to create something that never existed.”
Hoping for a Lasting Impact
Co-star Nidhhi Agerwal, portraying Bessie, also shared her thoughts on the discussion. While acknowledging the differences, she expressed a hopeful ambition for their film's legacy. “Having said that, I really hope that our film creates the kind of impact that Bhool Bhulaiyaa did,” Agerwal said.
Directed by Maruthi, The Raja Saab promises a unique blend of horror, fantasy, and large-scale spectacle. The film is reported to feature:
- Ghosts and supernatural elements
- Gravity-defying action sequences
- A dramatic crocodile fight involving Prabhas
- A special appearance by Sanjay Dutt
With these elements, the team aims to carve its own identity and deliver a mass entertainer on a grand scale, distinct from the films it is being compared to.
