Govinda Out, Manoj Bajpayee In for ‘Bhagam Bhag 2’

New Delhi, February 11, 2026: Fans of the 2006 cult classic Bhagam Bhag have received a bittersweet update regarding the long-awaited sequel. While the project is officially moving forward, one of the original pillars of the franchise, Govinda, will not be returning to reprise his role. In a surprising casting twist, versatile powerhouse Manoj Bajpayee has been roped in to join the madness alongside Akshay Kumar and Paresh Rawal.

The End of an Era: Govinda Exits the Franchise

The original Bhagam Bhag, directed by Priyadarshan, is widely considered one of the finest comedy films of the 2000s. The chemistry between Akshay Kumar, Govinda, and Paresh Rawal was the driving force behind its massive success. However, recent reports have confirmed that the “Hero No. 1” star has opted out of the second installment.

Actor Paresh Rawal, who is set to return for the sequel, confirmed the development in a recent interview. He revealed that Govinda is no longer part of the project, though the specific reasons for his departure remain unclear. Rawal expressed that while the team would certainly miss Govinda’s presence and his unparalleled comic timing, the production is moving in a new creative direction.

A Bold New Trio: Manoj Bajpayee Steps In

Replacing a legend like Govinda is no small feat, but the makers have opted for a “different and unique” dynamic by casting Manoj Bajpayee. Known for his intense dramatic performances, Bajpayee has occasionally flexed his comedic muscles in films like Suraj Pe Mangal Bhari, but seeing him in a high-octane Priyadarshan-style comedy is an exciting prospect for cinema-goers.

Paresh Rawal commented on the new pairing, stating that the combination of Akshay Kumar and Manoj Bajpayee will bring a fresh energy to the screen. This shift suggests that Bhagam Bhag 2 might lean into a different style of humor than its predecessor, blending Akshay’s slapstick energy with Bajpayee’s nuanced character work.

Govinda’s Sabbatical from the Big Screen

Govinda’s decision to skip the sequel comes amidst a prolonged hiatus from the film industry. The actor has not appeared in a theatrical release since 2019’s Rangeela Raja, which struggled to make an impact at the box office. For several years, the veteran star has remained largely distant from mainstream Bollywood projects, leading to much speculation about his future in the industry.

While fans were hoping Bhagam Bhag 2 would serve as the perfect comeback vehicle for the actor, his exit marks a significant change for the franchise.

What to Expect from Bhagam Bhag 2

The sequel aims to recapture the chaotic, mystery-laden humor that made the first film a household favorite. With the core trio now featuring Kumar, Rawal, and Bajpayee, the film is expected to enter production soon.

While the absence of Govinda’s “Babla” will be felt, the inclusion of Manoj Bajpayee signals a reboot of sorts for the series, promising a brand-new flavor of comedy for the modern audience. As the project develops, fans are eager to see if this “unique combination” can recreate the magic of the 2006 original.