Chithram, Hera Pheri To Bhool Bhulaiyaa, 5 Priyadarshan Classics To Rewatch Ahead Of Haiwaan

Few Indian filmmakers have shape-shifted across genres quite like Priyadarshan, tragedy, comedy, thriller, horror, he’s done it all, and made it look easy. Now, as he arrives at his 98th directorial with Haiwaan , starring Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan, it’s the perfect time to revisit the classics that paved the way.

5 Priyadarshan Classics To Rewatch Ahead Of Haiwaan

Chithram (1988)

A landmark in Priyadarshan’s Malayalam filmography, Chithram brought together Mohanlal and Priyadarshan in one of their most memorable collaborations. What begins as an unconventional relationship gradually unfolds into an emotional story packed with humour, romance and heartbreak. The film’s ability to effortlessly shift between laughter and emotion remains one of its biggest strengths, making Chithram a timeless favourite.

Kaalapani (1996)

With Kaalapani, Priyadarshan stepped into the world of historical drama on an ambitious scale. Starring Mohanlal, the film explored the brutal realities faced by Indian freedom fighters imprisoned in the Cellular Jail at Port Blair. Known for its powerful storytelling, grand production design and intense performances, Kaalapani showcased the filmmaker’s ability to create cinema that was both visually expansive and emotionally stirring.

Hera Pheri (2000)

Priyadarshan’s entry into the Hindi comedy space resulted in one of Bollywood’s most iconic comic films. Hera Pheri brought Akshay Kumar, Suniel Shetty and Paresh Rawal together as three unlikely men whose desperate attempt to change their fortunes spirals into absolute chaos. From Baburao’s unforgettable mannerisms to the film’s endlessly quotable moments, Hera Pheri went on to become a pop-culture phenomenon and remains one of Priyadarshan’s most celebrated films.

Hungama (2003)

A masterclass in comic confusion, Hungama saw Priyadarshan bring together an ensemble of characters caught in a web of misunderstandings, lies and mistaken identities. The film’s strength lay in its escalating chaos, perfectly timed comic situations and an ensemble cast that included Akshaye Khanna, Rimi Sen, Aftab Shivdasani and Paresh Rawal. It remains a quintessential Priyadarshan comedy.

Bhool Bhulaiyaa (2007)

Priyadarshan proved that his command over comedy could coexist with suspense, mystery and psychological drama with Bhool Bhulaiyaa. Starring Akshay Kumar, Vidya Balan and Shiney Ahuja, the film combined a haunting atmosphere with humour and emotion. Vidya Balan’s portrayal of Manjulika became one of the most memorable performances in Hindi cinema, while the film itself went on to become a modern cult favourite.

Haiwaan (2026)

Now, Priyadarshan is adding another genre to his remarkable filmography with Haiwaan. Starring Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan, the film promises a dark and atmospheric thriller built around mystery, danger and an unpredictable world. As Priyadarshan reaches his 99th directorial, Haiwaan becomes another chapter in a career defined by experimentation and versatility.

Haiwaan is produced under KVN Productions and Thespian Films by Venkat K. Narayana and Shailaja Desai Fenn. The film stars Akshay Kumar and Saif Ali Khan in lead roles along with Boman Irani, Saiyami Kher, Shriya Pilgaonkar and Sharib Hashmi in pivotal roles. The film releases worldwide in cinemas on 11th September 2026.

Also Read: Saif Ali Khan In Haiwaan To Rani Mukerji In Black, Indian Actors Who Delivered Impeccable Performances As Visually-Impaired Characters

Grinell Jacinto

With nearly 10 years of experience, Grinell Esther Jacinto is the Desk Head of Bollywood Bubble. Her interests lie in everything that is kaleshi and she loves to dig deeper into the lives of B-town actors. She has a problem though – she loves horror films but will have chills the minute the theatres lights dims. She’s previously worked with Koimoi, UrbanAsian and SpotboyE.