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Globalization is transforming cinema trends, with international films increasingly capturing the attention of Western audiences. A key attraction of global cinema lies in its rich cultural elements, which vividly evoke deep emotions and unique experiences.
This influence is especially evident in the horror genre, where Western audiences have long enjoyed films from countries such as Japan, Korea, and Thailand. These films stand out for their distinctive storytelling and eerie folklore, which have garnered a loyal fan base in the West. While Indian horror cinema hasn’t always been as widely recognized, Indian filmmakers are now tapping into their rich myths and folklore to craft compelling horror films.
In recent years, Indian filmmakers have made remarkable progress in the folk horror genre. Here are 10 Indian folklore horror movies that you absolutely must watch.
1. Kumari (2022)
With the growing popularity of regional South Indian films, Kumari emerges as the latest horror offering from Malayalam cinema. Directed by Nirmal Sahadev and featuring Aishwarya Lekshmi, best known for her role in Ponniyin Selvan, this film seamlessly blends fantasy with traditional folk elements.
The story centres on a cursed family that must honour a terrifying supernatural entity to prevent plague and death. The origins of these eerie beings, explained early in the film, will resonate with anyone familiar with Indian mythology, as they closely mirror real mythological stories from the country.
2. Kantara (2022)
Kantara became a massive hit last year, ranking among the top-grossing Indian films. The movie captivated audiences with its portrayal of Bhoota Kola, a traditional ritual where dancers embody the spirits of guardian gods. While it’s not explicitly marketed as a horror film, Kantara skillfully integrates horror elements into its narrative. The film effortlessly blends supernatural aspects with its rural setting, creating a unique form of magical realism that draws viewers in. With its deep-rooted mythological themes, Kantara evokes a range of emotions, from awe to fear, keeping the audience engaged throughout.
3. Lapachhapi (2017)
Familial secrets often act as the central force in many Indian horror films, revealing hidden crimes and strange traditions kept by mysterious families. A perfect example of this is the Marathi film Lapachhapi. In this gripping tale, a pregnant couple seeks refuge in a sugarcane field to escape debt collectors. The husband decides to leave his wife with a rural family nearby while he attempts to settle their financial problems. However, this seemingly harmless family conceals a dark secret that puts the wife and her unborn child in serious peril.
4. Tumbbad (2018)
Ranked among IMDb’s Top 10 Horror Movies, Tumbbad is widely regarded as a quintessential example of Indian horror. What sets this film apart is its originality, offering an experience that’s unlike anything else in Indian cinema. The story explores the theme of greed through a unique fictional creation myth that is both unsettling and captivating. Infused with elements of cosmic horror, Tumbbad follows a family that exploits forbidden knowledge about an ancient legend in their pursuit of wealth and power.
5. Jallikattu (2019)
India’s official entry for Best International Feature Film at the 93rd Academy Awards, Jallikattu is a standout in Indian cinema. This psychological horror unfolds at a deliberate pace, depicting how a village spirals into chaos during the search for a missing buffalo. If you’re drawn to films exploring communal madness, Jallikattu is a must-watch. The film immerses viewers in rural life, gradually building its narrative through countless everyday conversations.
6. Bulbbul (2020)
The Indian horror film Bulbbul delves into the legend of the chudail, a notorious figure in Indian folklore. Also known as the daayan, the chudail is believed to arise from a violent death, often linked to sexual violence or mistreatment by in-laws. While the chudail appears in many Indian horror films, Bulbbul stands out for its striking portrayal. The film’s cinematic style is dreamlike and almost musical, creating a unique atmosphere. Tripti Dimri’s performance in the lead role was widely acclaimed for capturing the character’s delicate balance of innocence and vengeance, adding depth to the movie’s distinctive visual and auditory experience.
7. Kothanodi (2016)
The Assamese film Kothanodi brings to life four unsettling stories from the renowned folk tale collection Burhi Aair Sadhu. These tales revolve around bizarre events and their chilling impact on local communities. In Kothanodi, the horror stems from concealed family secrets and strange regional rituals. The film immerses viewers in a dark and twisted world where child sacrifice and serpent marriages are disturbingly woven into everyday life.
8. Paheli (2005)
Paheli is a classic Bollywood film from an era renowned for its lavish visuals and melodramatic storytelling. Set in Rajasthan and inspired by a local short story, the movie explores a unique love story between a housewife and a ghost. Featuring beloved stars Shah Rukh Khan and Rani Mukerji, Paheli was widely praised for its breathtaking visuals and costume design, which were iconic elements of Bollywood during that period.
9. Pari (2018)
Pari is a standout film that merges Eastern folklore with traditional Hollywood horror elements. Starring Anushka Sharma as a woman with a mysterious past, the movie delves into a dark world of cults and demons. While the film’s execution may not be flawless, it was lauded for presenting a fresh narrative in Indian cinema. Audiences appreciated the intricate plot and the impressive special effects, which contributed to the movie’s appeal.
10. Stree (2018)
Stree, featuring popular actor Rajkummar Rao and rising star Shraddha Kapoor, is a highly successful horror comedy. Inspired by a unique Karnataka folk tradition, where people write “come tomorrow” on their doors to ward off evil spirits, the film is set in a town haunted by a chudail, a ghostly figure from Indian folklore. When Rao’s character encounters a beautiful woman with a mysterious past, he sets aside his fears, hoping to pursue a romantic relationship.
Conclusion
These 10 Indian folklore horror films deliver a unique and immersive experience for fans of the genre. Each movie brings traditional stories and myths to life, seamlessly blending cultural heritage with spine-chilling narratives. From ancient legends to supernatural entities, these films offer a fresh and eerie take on horror. If you’re eager to explore the rich world of Indian folklore through the lens of horror cinema, these titles are a must-watch.
