Mumbai, April 9 - After years, Akshay Kumar is set to return to the horror-comedy space with director Priyadarshan's Bhooth Bangla. This genre once gave the actor one of his most iconic roles in Bhool Bhulaiyaa. Bhooth Bangla is already generating strong buzz, largely because it promises a blend of nostalgia and a fresh take on the genre.

Akshay Kumar's strength has always been his effortless comic timing, especially in films that balance humour with tension. With Bhooth Bangla, fans are hoping to see him revisit that space—something reminiscent of his performance as the eccentric yet sharp psychiatrist in Bhool Bhulaiyaa, but with a new twist.

Bollywood has experimented with spooky humour over the years, delivering films that blend scares with laughter in unique ways. Before stepping into Akshay's upcoming entertainer, scheduled for April 17 release, here are five original (first film) horror comedies that perfectly set the mood.

1. Bhool Bhulaiyaa – The Cult Classic (2007)

Directed by Priyadarshan, Bhool Bhulaiyaa remains one of Bollywood's finest horror comedies. With Akshay Kumar delivering an iconic performance as the eccentric Dr Aditya, the film smartly balances psychological horror with humour. Its gripping narrative, memorable music, and twist-filled climax make it a must-watch before Bhooth Bangla.

2. Stree – Horror With a Message (2018)

Featuring Rajkummar Rao and Shraddha Kapoor, Stree redefined the genre in modern Bollywood. Set in a small town haunted by a mysterious spirit, the film cleverly mixes folklore with social commentary. Its sharp writing and perfectly timed humour make it one of the most loved horror comedies in recent years.

3. Phone Bhoot – A Quirky, Gen-Z Spin (2022)

Starring Katrina Kaif alongside Ishaan Khatter and Siddhant Chaturvedi, Phone Bhoot brings a fresh, meta take on horror comedy. Packed with pop-culture references and self-aware humour, the film leans more toward laughs while still embracing its supernatural core.

4. Bhoot Police – Ghost Hunting Meets Comedy (2021)

With Saif Ali Khan and Arjun Kapoor playing ghost hunters, Bhoot Police offers a fun, adventurous take on the genre. The film blends supernatural elements with a buddy-comedy dynamic, making it an easy and entertaining watch for fans of light-hearted horror.

5. Roohi – A Supernatural Love Triangle (2021)

Led by Janhvi Kapoor, Rajkummar Rao, and Varun Sharma, Roohi explores a unique concept involving a bride possessed by a spirit. While rooted in horror, the film leans heavily into comedy, delivering several laugh-out-loud moments alongside its eerie premise. It was originally part of the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe, but the makers later dropped it from MHCU.

From the psychological brilliance of Bhool Bhulaiyaa to the quirky chaos of Phone Bhoot, these films showcase the versatility of Bollywood's horror-comedy genre. Each offers a distinct flavour, be it satire, folklore, or pure slapstick, making them the perfect watchlist before Bhooth Bangla hits the screens.