Exclusive: Madhuri Dixit to join Vidya Balan-Kartik Aaryan in Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3

Vidya Balan and Madhuri Dixit-Nene

Last month, mid-day reported that Vidya Balan, who had played Manjulika in Bhool Bhulaiyaa (2007), would return to the franchise's third instalment, although details of her role were kept under wraps at the time (Back to the OG? Yes ji, Jan 8). Now, it is heard that the actor will reprise her iconic role in Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, led by Kartik Aaryan. What's more, Manjulika has company. mid-day has exclusively learnt that Madhuri Dixit-Nene is the latest addition to director Anees Bazmee's horror comedy.

Sources tell us that Aaryan's character of Rooh Baba, who claims to have the power to communicate with spirits, will fight two ghosts this time. "The team felt another spirit would add to the narrative. So, it will be Rooh Baba versus the two ghosts played by Madhuri and Vidya. By bringing the two leading ladies together for the first time on screen, the makers have played a trump card," says a source. The film is slated to roll next month.

Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 (2022) had Kiara Advani as Aaryan's love interest. There is chatter that the makers are keen on casting Sara Ali Khan opposite him for the latest outing. The source adds, "The discussions are at a nascent stage. Nothing is confirmed yet."