Tumbbad (2018) is a visually striking tale rooted in Indian mythology, following the curse of a forgotten god of greed. Its rain-soaked settings, haunting music and symbolic narrative set a new benchmark for Indian horror, praised globally for its originality and cinematic brilliance.
Raat (1992), directed by Ram Gopal Varma, introduced slick production to Hindi horror. Revathi’s chilling performance as a woman possessed made this film a cult favourite. Its eerie minimalism, clever sound design and modern storytelling still inspire horror filmmakers nationwide.
Bhoot (2003), starring Ajay Devgn and Urmila Matondkar, was a critical and commercial success. Directed by Ram Gopal Varma, the film turned a Mumbai high-rise into a house of horrors, proving that Indian horror could be slick, urban and genuinely terrifying without clichéd frights.
Pari (2018) offers a disturbing twist on supernatural horror, delving into demonic rituals and inherited trauma. Anushka Sharma’s unsettling performance and eerie atmosphere elevate the film beyond standard scares, blending folklore with psychological terror that lingers long after the credits roll.
1920 (2008), directed by Vikram Bhatt, revived the genre with grand visuals and classic possession tropes. Set in a haunting colonial mansion, it combined gothic romance with chilling exorcism scenes. Adah Sharma’s physical transformation stunned audiences, establishing her as a scream queen.