Mumbai: Filmmaker Vikram Bhatt, best known for directing popular Hindi films such as Raaz, Awara Pagal Deewana, Footpath, and Raaz 3D, has suffered a personal loss with the demise of his mother, Varsha Bhatt. She passed away on Saturday, September 6, at the age of 85, following a prolonged illness.

The last rites of Varsha Bhatt were held at 2:00 pm in Mumbai’s Versova, attended by close family members. She was the wife of celebrated cinematographer Pravin Bhatt, known for his exceptional work in iconic films like Aashiqui, Sadak, Agneepath, Dil Hai Ki Manta Nahin, and Hum Hain Rahi Pyar Ke.

Vikram Bhatt, who began his film career at the age of 14 as an assistant to director Mukul Anand in Kanoon Kya Karega (1984), has been candid about his personal struggles. Recently, he opened up about battling depression and living with an autoimmune condition called axial spondyloarthritis, a form of arthritis that causes severe pain and bone fusion. He also credited stars like Deepika Padukone and Samantha Ruth Prabhu for inspiring him and others to speak openly about health issues.

Vikram Bhatt’s Upcoming Project

On the professional front, Vikram Bhatt is working on Haunted 3D: Ghosts of The Past, the sequel to his 2011 hit Haunted – 3D. Actor Mahaakshay Chakraborty, who led the first part, will reprise his role in the sequel, while actress Chetna Pande has been cast as the female lead. The film is scheduled to release on November 21, 2025.