Madhuri Dixit, one of Bollywood’s most admired actresses, is back in the spotlight with Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3. Known for her performances in iconic films like Tezaab, Beta, Hum Aapke Hain Koun, and Raja, Madhuri was last seen in a box-office blockbuster nearly three decades ago. As her new film Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 gains traction, fans and critics alike are wondering: will this movie finally end her 29-year wait for another blockbuster?
Madhuri Dixit’s Journey from Tezaab to Raja and Beyond
Madhuri entered Bollywood in 1984, and by the late ‘80s, she had established herself as a superstar. Tezaab (1988), her first blockbuster, was followed by hits like Dil and Saajan, and in 1992, she gave another major hit with Beta, which showcased her strong on-screen presence opposite Anil Kapoor.
In 1994, Hum Aapke Hain Koun became her third blockbuster, and it wasn’t just a commercial success; it set records as one of Bollywood’s all-time favorites. Her last blockbuster, Raja (1995), where she starred alongside Sanjay Kapoor, marked an impressive phase in her career. While Madhuri continued acting, none of her films achieved the “blockbuster” status since then.
Box Office Performance of Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3
Madhuri’s comeback in Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, led by Kartik Aryan, has opened strong. In its first four days, the film has collected ₹123.50 crore, indicating a positive response from audiences. With a reported budget of ₹150 crore, expectations are high for the movie to recover its production cost within the first week. Analysts estimate the film could surpass the ₹200 crore mark by the second weekend, putting it on a promising trajectory.
However, the title of “blockbuster” is still not guaranteed. In today’s competitive landscape, where films by popular stars like Ajay Devgan are in theaters, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 would need to hit around ₹400 crore to secure blockbuster status. Much of its success will depend on how it fares in the second weekend and whether it can hold its momentum amid competition.
What a Blockbuster in 2024 Would Mean for Madhuri
If Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 manages to achieve blockbuster status, it would mark a major milestone in Madhuri’s career. Known for her flawless dance performances, expressive acting, and a magnetic screen presence, she has left an indelible mark on Bollywood. Today’s audiences are equally captivated by her charm, and this film could bring her back to the mainstream success she experienced during her peak years.
While Madhuri has diversified into various roles outside of acting, including TV appearances and even digital projects, a blockbuster film in 2024 would symbolize her versatility and sustained popularity. It could open doors for more challenging roles and larger projects in an industry that is now rich with diverse storytelling.
The Legacy of Madhuri Dixit’s Blockbusters
Let’s revisit Madhuri’s blockbuster hits, as each one played a significant role in her journey and established her as a Bollywood legend:
- Tezaab (1988): This was Madhuri’s breakout role, making her an overnight star. The movie also gave Bollywood the unforgettable song “Ek Do Teen,” which remains iconic even today.
- Beta (1992): Starring alongside Anil Kapoor, Madhuri’s role in Beta showcased her in a powerful role that resonated with audiences and led to the film’s blockbuster status.
- Hum Aapke Hain Koun (1994): An all-time favorite, this family entertainer not only broke records but also redefined the concept of romance in Bollywood. It became one of the highest-grossing Indian films at the time and earned Madhuri immense popularity.
- Raja (1995): Madhuri’s fourth blockbuster, Raja performed well at the box office and solidified her standing as a reliable lead actress.
With Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, Madhuri stands on the edge of potentially adding a fifth blockbuster to her career, a feat that would be remarkable given the changes Bollywood has undergone over the years.
What Lies Ahead?
The journey of Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 at the box office will be watched closely, especially as it faces competition from major films in theaters. With loyal fans supporting the movie and Madhuri’s strong performance drawing viewers, there’s hope that her long wait for another blockbuster could soon be over.
If successful, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 would not only cement her legacy as a timeless star but also reinforce the enduring appeal of her presence in Bollywood.
