These 10 Indian Folklore Horror Movies Are a Must-Watch

Globalization is reshaping cinema trends, with international films gaining popularity among Western audiences. Part of global cinema’s appeal is its unique cultural aspects, which vividly bring emotions to life.

This effect is especially noticeable in the horror genre. For years, western horror fans have enjoyed films from countries like Japan, Korea, and Thailand. These films are known for their unique storytelling and creepy folklore, which have earned them a dedicated following in the West. While Indian horror cinema hasn’t always been as prominent, Indian filmmakers are now drawing on their myths and folklore to create compelling horror films.

Recently, Indian filmmakers have made significant strides in the folk horror genre. Here are 10 Indian folklore horror movies that you should watch.

1. Kumari (2022)

With the rising success of regional South Indian films, Kumari is the latest horror movie from Malayalam cinema. Directed by Nirmal Sahadev and starring Aishwarya Lekshmi, known for Ponniyin Selvan, the film blends fantasy with folk elements. It tells the story of a cursed family that must worship a terrifying supernatural being to avoid plague and death. The origins of these creatures, explained at the start of the movie, will feel familiar to anyone familiar with Indian mythology, as they closely resemble real mythological tales from the country.

2. Kantara (2022)

Kantara became a major hit last year, ranking among the top-grossing Indian films. The movie captivated audiences with its portrayal of boots kola, a traditional ritual where dancers channel the spirits of guardian gods. Although it isn’t advertised as a horror film, Kantara effectively incorporates horror elements. The film blends supernatural aspects into its rural setting with remarkable ease, creating a magical realism that draws viewers in. With its rich mythological themes, Kantara evokes many powerful emotions, from awe to fear.

3. Lapachhapi (2017)

Familial secrets often drive the plot in Indian horror films, revealing hidden crimes and strange traditions kept by mysterious families. The Marathi movie Lapachhapi is a great example. In the film, a pregnant couple finds refuge in a sugarcane field to escape debt collectors. The husband plans to leave his wife with a rural family nearby while he tries to settle their debts. However, this family harbors a dark secret that endangers the wife and her unborn child.

4. Tumbbad (2018)

Ranked among IMDb’s top 10 horror movies, Tumbbad is often hailed as a top example of Indian horror. This film stands out for its originality and is unlike anything else in Indian cinema. It tells a tale of greed through a fictional creation myth that is both disturbing and fascinating. With elements of cosmic horror, Tumbbad follows a family that uses forbidden knowledge about an ancient story to achieve wealth and power.

5. Jallikattu (2019)

India’s official entry for Best International Feature Film at the 93rd Academy Awards, Jallikattu, is a unique film in Indian cinema. This psychological horror movie unfolds slowly, showing how a village descends into chaos while searching for a missing buffalo. If you enjoy films about communal madness, Jallikattu is a must-watch. The movie immerses you in rural life, building the story through numerous everyday conversations.

6. Bulbbul (2020)

The Indian horror film Bulbbul explores the legend of the chudail, a famous creature in Indian folklore. Also known as the daayan, the chudail is typically born from a violent death, often involving sexual violence or mistreatment by in-laws. While many Indian horror movies feature the chudail, Bulbbul stands out for its memorable portrayal. The film has a dreamy, almost musical cinematic style. Tripti Dimri’s lead performance was widely praised for capturing the character’s blend of innocence and vengeance, enhancing the movie’s unique visual and audio design.

7. Kothanodi (2016)

The Assamese film Kothanodi adapts four unsettling tales from the well-known folk story collection Burhi Aair Sadhu. These stories feature strange events and their disturbing effects on local communities. In Kothanodi, the horror comes from hidden family secrets and bizarre local rituals. The film takes viewers into a twisted world where child sacrifice and serpent marriages are part of everyday life.

8. Paheli (2005)

Paheli is a classic Bollywood film from an era known for its grand visuals and melodrama. Set in Rajasthan and based on a local short story, the film tells a love story between a housewife and a ghost. Starring beloved actors Shah Rukh Khan and Rani Mukerji, Paheli received praise for its stunning visual and costume design, a hallmark of that time in Bollywood.

9. Pari (2018)

Pari is a noteworthy film that blends Eastern folklore with typical Hollywood horror elements. Anushka Sharma stars as a woman with a mysterious background, caught up in a dark world involving cults and demons. The film was praised for offering a fresh story in Indian cinema. Although its execution isn’t perfect, audiences appreciated the complex plot and impressive special effects.

10. Stree (2018)

Starring popular actor Rajkummar Rao and rising star Shraddha Kapoor, Stree is a successful horror comedy. The film is inspired by a Karnataka folk custom where people write “come tomorrow” on their doors to keep evil spirits away. The story is set in a town haunted by a chudail, a ghostly figure. When Rao’s character meets a beautiful woman with a mysterious past, he sets aside his fears, hoping to start a romantic relationship.

Conclusion

these 10 Indian folklore horror movies offer a unique and captivating experience for fans of the genre. Each film brings traditional stories and myths to life, blending cultural heritage with chilling narratives. From ancient legends to supernatural beings, these movies provide a fresh and eerie perspective on horror. If you’re looking to explore the rich tapestry of Indian folklore through the lens of horror cinema, these titles are worth watching.

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