On June 17, 2025, Bollywood actress Kajol, while promoting her mythological horror film Maa in an interview in Mumbai, labeled Hyderabad’s Ramoji Film City “one of the most haunted places in the world.” Her comments, citing unsettling vibes during past shoots, ignited a firestorm online, with Hyderabadis and netizens slamming her for tarnishing the iconic studio’s reputation, while others backed her claims, referencing urban legends about the site.
In This Article:
Kajol’s Spooky Claim
Promoting Maa, set for release on June 27, 2025, Kajol shared her discomfort filming at Ramoji Film City, a 1,600-acre studio complex and Guinness World Record holder as the largest film studio. “I’ve shot at places where I couldn’t sleep all night. Ramoji Film City, to me, is one of the most haunted places in the world,” she said, clarifying she never saw ghosts but felt an eerie energy. The actress, known for Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, linked her experience to the film’s theme of negative energies, but her remarks drew sharp criticism.
Backlash and Defense
Hyderabad locals and Telugu cinema fans took offense stating, “If Ramoji Film City were truly haunted, lakhs of people wouldn’t visit it every year. It’s Hyderabad’s pride in film tourism.” Critics accused Kajol of sensationalizing for publicity.
Ramoji’s Cinematic Legacy
Ramoji Film City, founded by Ramoji Rao, is a cornerstone of Indian cinema, hosting Bollywood, Tollywood, and international productions. Kajol’s husband, Ajay Devgn, has shot films there, including RRR. Netizens, defended its prestige, calling her comments “nonsense.” The controversy has raised questions about promotional tactics, with a Redditor joking, “Tomorrow she’ll play a scientist and praise rationality.”
Kajol’s haunted label for Ramoji Film City has divided fans, pitting her personal experience against the studio’s celebrated legacy. As Maa nears release, the debate underscores the fine line between promotion and controversy.
By – Manoj