I had been eagerly following up for an interview with Anees Bazmee for quite some time. Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3's phenomenal success has made Anees incredibly busy, leading to multiple rescheduling of our interview. Finally, two months after the film's release, we meet at his Jogeshwari office. The place is bustling with visitors, some with scripts in hand, others seeking work and a few newcomers hoping to make an impression. Anees is already deeply engrossed in his next project, a testament to his energiser bunny attitude towards work and perhaps the secret to his success. His spacious cabin is adorned with photographs showcasing his journey from his early works to his latest hits. Our conversation begins over sips of coffee. The writer-director looks within and waxes eloquent as I ask...

AFTER THE MASSIVE SUCCESS OF BHOOL BHULAIYAA 3, HOW HAS LIFE BEEN?

Life has been busy. After the film’s release, the schedule has been nonstop. There were constant interviews, meetings and discussions. Even today people come with scripts, seeking work and looking for opportunities. I’ve immersed myself into my next project already. Maybe that’s why I’m where I am today.

WERE YOU CONFIDENT ABOUT THE SUCCESS OF BHOOL BHULAIYAA 2 WHEN IT WAS RELEASED DURING THE PANDEMIC?

To be honest, I was scared. That year every film was failing but I had hope. I believe the magic of watching a film on the big screen will never fade. Bhool Bhulaiyaa was originally a psychological thriller. But with part 2, we created a horror-comedy world that resonated with the audiences. Success lies in the correct “mathematics and science” of a film, whether it was casting Vidya Balan or Madhuri Dixit, everything needs to fit perfectly. That’s what this film achieved. And the audience loved it.

HAVE YOU COME TO UNDERSTAND THE AUDIENCE’S PULSE?