Kartik Aaryan’s Rooh Baba Marks Four Years Of Post-Pandemic Blockbuster Success

On its fourth anniversary, filmmaker Anees Bazmee shared behind-the-scenes memories, calling the film a “beautiful place in his heart.” The movie was a standalone sequel to the 2007 cult hit Bhool Bhulaiyaa, and its success reassured the industry about cinema’s viability in the post-pandemic era. 

Box Office Performance

• Opening day collection: ₹14 crore, one of the strongest for a Hindi film in 2022.
• India gross: ₹175 crore in 27 days, eventually crossing ₹180 crore.
• Worldwide gross: Over ₹200 crore, making it Kartik Aaryan’s highest-grossing film at the time.
• Budget: Approximately ₹65 crore, ensuring strong profitability. 

Kartik Aaryan’s Breakthrough

Kartik Aaryan’s portrayal of Rooh Baba was central to the film’s appeal. His comic timing and mass connect drew audiences back to theatres, while Tabu’s dual role was hailed as one of her finest performances. Kiara Advani and Rajpal Yadav added further star power and comic relief. 

Cultural Impact

The film revived the horror-comedy genre in India and produced chart-topping songs like “Ami Je Tomar.” It became a cultural talking point, with Tabu’s performance earning critical acclaim. The movie’s success also paved the way for Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, released in 2024, starring Kartik alongside Vidya Balan, Madhuri Dixit, and Triptii Dimri. 

Anniversary Highlights

•⁠  ⁠Released May 20, 2022, directed by Anees Bazmee

•⁠  ⁠Domestic box office: ₹175–180 crore, worldwide: ₹200 crore+

•⁠  ⁠Kartik Aaryan’s career-defining blockbuster

•⁠  ⁠Tabu’s dual role performance widely praised

•⁠  ⁠Revived Bollywood’s theatrical business post-pandemic

•⁠  ⁠Led to Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 in 2024 with expanded cast

Sources: News18, Dainik Bhaskar, Bollywood Hungama