Kajol sparks controversy by calling Ramoji Film City ‘haunted’

Bollywood star Kajol has found herself at the center of controversy after describing Hyderabad’s iconic Ramoji Film City as “one of the most haunted places in the world.” The remarks came during a promotional interview for her upcoming supernatural thriller Maa, scheduled to release on June 20.

Negative vibes

Speaking to Instant Bollywood on YouTube, Kajol recounted eerie moments from past shoots, saying, “There are places where you don’t know if you’ll sleep at night or even make it out. Ramoji Rao Studios in Hyderabad is one such place, often spoken about as haunted. I feel lucky nothing ever happened to me.” She added that she had experienced “negative vibes” at certain locations, including Ramoji, and often felt an urge to “leave and never return.”

Her comments triggered a wave of backlash from fans, film industry insiders, and netizens, many of whom criticized the actress for tarnishing the reputation of a globally respected studio.

Ramoji Film City, certified by Guinness World Records as the largest film studio complex in the world, is a hub for major Indian and international productions, including Baahubali and RRR. Critics argue that Kajol’s remarks—offered without evidence—could hurt the studio’s standing both as a production site and tourist destination.

Backlash

While Tollywood fans slammed her comments as “irresponsible,” some social media users speculated that the timing of the remarks could be a strategic move to promote Maa, where Kajol plays a mother battling supernatural forces. Online reactions ranged from outrage to skepticism, with one user posting, “Haunted claims just days before a horror release? Sounds like a PR move.”

Though stories of Ramoji Film City being haunted have circulated for years—often linked to its historical past—none of the claims have been verified. Kajol’s husband, Ajay Devgn, a regular at the studio, has not commented, and Kajol herself has yet to address the growing controversy.

Despite the buzz, Ramoji Film City continues to thrive as one of the premier film and tourism destinations in India.