The magic of Akshay Kumar and Priyadarshan's collaborations

On his birthday, Akshay Kumar thrilled fans by announcing a new project with his long-time collaborator, Priyadarshan. To celebrate this reunion, let’s revisit some iconic films they created!

This year, Akshay has already brought us three films—Sarfira, Bade Miyan Chote Miyan, and Khel Khel Mein. However, his cameo in Stree 2, where he shines with his comedic prowess, has left audiences craving more of the hilarious Akshay Kumar we’ve missed watching onscreen. Apart from being known as the khiladi of Bollywood, Akshay also established himself as the comedy king who consistently delivers standout performances with his flair and comic timing. Still, it's his collaborations with prolific filmmaker Priyadarshan that has solidified his legacy in Bollywood's comedy genre, and this actor-director collab has created a cinematic partnership of laughter and legacy that has become timeless for all of us. No wonder now, after 14 years, when the duo returns with Bhoot Bangla, which Akshay announced on his birthday, the excitement amongst the fans in at an all-time high. 

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Also Read: The Khiladi turned comedy king: 10 hilarious characters played by Akshay Kumar's that are still very much a part of pop culture!

Here's looking back at some movies by the iconic duo that we have all grown up on!

Hera Pheri 

Undoubtedly, the most celebrated film out of their collaboration, Hera Pheri is widely regarded as one of Bollywood’s finest comedies and a cult classic. Akshay's portrayal of the fast-talking, quick-thinking Raju, alongside Paresh Rawal’s iconic Baburao and Suniel Shetty’s earnest Shyam, gave us a film that, to date, is a pop-culture reference point for us all. Showcasing Priyadarshan's flair for situational comedy, where hilarious misunderstandings escalate into a ransom situation, this film solidified Akshay’s transition from an action hero to a comedy star and a cornerstone of his long-standing partnership with Priyadarshan. 

Garam Masala 

Another comedy gem from the bucket of Akshay and Priyadarshan's team, Garam Masala was and still is a laughter riot where a charming yet bumbling photographer, Mac, paired with John Abraham and Paresh Rawal, juggles multiple relationships with air hostesses, leading to a series of misunderstandings and hilarious situations. This humorous take on infidelity, impeccable comic timing, and fast-paced direction marked its place in people's hearts. 

Bhool Bhulaiyaa 

This out-of-the-box, unique blend of genres is probably the first horror comedy to establish a new form of cinema that the masses seemed to love. It also marked Priyadarshan's venture into psychological thrillers. Akshay played the iconic role of Dr. Aditya Shrivastav, a psychiatrist who looks like he probably needs treatment himself but is a genius who uncovers the mystery of the haunted mansion. Mental illness and superstitions are beautifully balanced in this film by humorous antics, sharp dialogues and comedic moments, presenting the duo's versatility of blending anything with comedy. 

Bhagam Bhag 

When discussing the iconic partnership between Akshay Kumar and Priyadarshan, Bhagam Bhag is a film that stands out as a perfect example of their knack for delivering chaos-driven, laugh-out-loud comedy with an ensemble cast and multiple interwoven storylines that come together in a chaotic but entertaining climax. The film is a comedy of errors filled with mistaken identities, rapid chases, and comical situations that keep the audience laughing throughout.

De Dana Dan 

De Dana Dan could be called Akshay and Priyadarshan's returning to the formula that has worked so well with Hera Pheri, since the same cast tries to bring out yet another out-and-out slapstick comedy where two down-on-their-luck friends try to extort money by kidnapping a rich woman’s dog, only to have their plan spiral into chaos. Though the film didn't see the same kind of success as others, it still managed to deliver a decent comedy. 

Khatta Meetha 

In Khatta Meetha, Priyadarshan steered away from outright slapstick comedy and gave Akshay a chance to delve into a more satirical narrative which has its humorous moments but also carries a strong social message about the state of affairs in the country. We saw Akshay in a new light as a small-time contractor, Sachin Tichkule, who has dreams of making it big but is constantly thwarted by systemic corruption and red tape.

This actor-director partnership between the two has produced some of Bollywood's most beloved comedies, thanks to their perfect blend of humour, relatable characters, and sharp storytelling. Akshay’s impeccable comic timing and ability to seamlessly fit into Priyadarshan’s situational comedy, slapstick humour, and Priyadarshan's trust in Akshay were crucial to their success. With large ensemble casts and chaotic, entertaining situations, their films offered both laughter and occasional social commentary, which has made their work relatable across generations who are equally excited to see this iconic duo's collaboration once again after so many years. 

Happy Birthday to the comedy king! 

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