Released on May 10, 2013, Go Goa Gone made history as India’s first-ever zombie comedy. With its absurd premise, sharp one-liners, and memorable characters, the film went on to achieve cult status. On its 12th anniversary, here are 7 behind-the-scenes facts that make this zom-com even more iconic:
1. The Film Wasn’t Originally About Zombies
Kunal Kemmu revealed that the original plan was to make a gangster-slacker film. “It was still Luv, Hardik, and Bunny, but in the gangster world,” he shared. The zombie twist came later, giving it an unexpected and hilarious edge.
2. Saif Ali Khan Said Yes Because It Was ‘Funny and Different’
Saif was immediately drawn to the film’s quirky tone. “I thought it was funny. And I liked the idea of doing a comedy around zombies. There were just some really funny lines,” he said. His character Boris, a fake Russian, quickly became iconic with his dialogue: “Haan, Delhi se hoon, yaar.”
3. Saif Dyed His Hair Blonde for the Role… and Didn’t Charge for It
To complete Boris’ look, Saif actually dyed his hair, but things didn’t go as planned. “It went a little orange, it didn’t go blond,” he recalled. Interestingly, he didn’t even take a fee for the film, doing it purely for the creative thrill.
4. The Dumb Charades Scene Was Made Up on the Spot
One of the most memorable scenes, where the trio tries to interpret military-style hand signals wasn’t scripted. “It was completely thought of on the go,” said Anand Tiwari. “We decided to create a dumb charades game out of it!”
5. Zombie Guts Were Made Using Maggi and Glue
Low-budget gore got hilariously innovative. Vir Das revealed, “They take Maggi and put glue on it and twist it.” Anand Tiwari added that after hours of shooting, even tourists playing zombies ended up looking exhausted—drenched in ketchup and noodle guts.
6. It Was Inspired by Shaun of the Dead
The team took creative cues from the British zombie comedy Shaun of the Dead, especially in how Luv’s character responded to bizarre situations. It helped blend Western zombie tropes with Indian humor effortlessly.
7. It Became an Unexpected Cult Classic
Despite its unconventional genre, Go Goa Gone clicked with the youth. Its unique mix of horror, comedy, and desi slang made it stand out and fans are still quoting it 12 years later. From fake Russians to noodle guts, it remains one of a kind.