Mumbai: Actor Akshay Kumar marked Saif Ali Khan’s birthday on Sunday with an Instagram video that doubled as a light promotional nod to their upcoming film Haiwaan.

In the clip, Akshay is seen sitting on a chair and lighting a candle on a cupcake. He says, “Mera hero hai wo, mera hero hai wo. Happy birthday, Saif from Haiwaan,” before breaking into a deliberately creepy laugh. The caption read: “Happy Birthday, Saif. Have a great one… while you can. Kyunki #Haiwaan aa raha hai.”

The two are set to share the screen again in Haiwaan, reuniting after Tashan, which underperformed commercially and critically though its music was well received. Filming began last year. At the time, Akshay had shared a behind-the-scenes video of himself and Saif in conversation with director Priyadarshan.

The makers earlier released a teaser built around striking silhouettes, looming shadows and brief glimpses intended to create an unsettling mood. The imagery suggests an intense, darker narrative; Saif appears to play a visually impaired character.

Haiwaan also stars Boman Irani, Saiyami Kher and Shriya Pilgaonkar in pivotal roles. It is directed by Priyadarshan and produced by Venkat K. Narayana and Shailaja Desai Fenn under KVN Productions and Thespian Films. The film is scheduled for theatrical release on September 11, 2026.

The birthday post kept the tone playful while underlining the pair’s return to the screen together and the film’s more sinister promotional register ahead of its September opening.