India’s film industry has long been known for its diverse range of movies, from romantic sagas to epic dramas. However, when it comes to horror films, the offerings were often lacking in authenticity and genuine scares. But over the years, a handful of Indian horror movies emerged that not only sent shivers down our spines but also served as a breath of fresh air in a genre that was often overlooked. Let’s delve into seven such Best Indian horror movies that actually scared the audience:
Raat [1992]:
Directed by Ram Gopal Varma, “Raat” was a groundbreaking horror film that marked a turning point for Indian horror cinema. The story revolves around a possessed cat and its sinister influence on a family. The film’s atmospheric tension and spine-tingling moments made it a cult classic. Those were the good old days of Ram Gopal Varma, the classic filmmaker.
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Bhoot [2003]:
Another gem from Ram Gopal Varma’s repertoire, “Bhoot” was a psychological horror film that stood out for its eerie ambiance and exceptional performances. Urmila Matondkar’s portrayal of a woman tormented by supernatural forces was both compelling and terrifying.
1920 [2008]:
In 1920, the release of the film “1920” marked a breath of fresh air in a country with a deficiency of authentic horror films. This Bollywood horror-thriller, directed by Vikram Bhatt, captivated audiences with its spine-tingling storyline, atmospheric cinematography, and eerie sound design. Debutantes Rajneesh Duggal and Adah Sharma not only surprised the audience with their skills, but also navigated the film to a surprise box office success.
Pari [2018]:
Anushka Sharma’s production house, Clean Slate Films, ventured into the horror genre with “Pari.” This film dared to explore themes of witchcraft and supernatural possession, delivering a genuinely disturbing and unsettling experience.
Stree [2018]:
“Stree” combined horror with humor, creating a unique horror-comedy that resonated with audiences. This film, inspired by a popular Indian urban legend, took a playful approach to horror while still delivering spine-chilling moments. Rajkummar Rao and Shraddha Kapoor’s performances added to its charm.
Tumbbad [2018]:
“Tumbbad” redefined the horror-fantasy genre in Indian cinema. With its rich storytelling and stunning visuals, the film took viewers on a journey through a cursed village and the greed-fueled horrors lurking within. It offered an experience that was both terrifying and thought-provoking. History will never forgive those heading the Film Federation of India at that time for not sending this masterpiece to the Oscars!
Also read: 11 Greatest Indian Films that were never nominated for the Oscars
Bulbbul [2020]:
“Bulbbul” explored the horror genre through the lens of folklore and feminist themes. Anushka Sharma’s production again delivered a thought-provoking tale of a woman’s journey from innocence to empowerment, all while encountering supernatural forces. The film’s eerie atmosphere and captivating storytelling made it a standout in the genre.
In a country where horror films have often been relegated to clichés and jump scares, these movies dared to be different. They tapped into our deepest fears and cultural beliefs, giving us a taste of authentic horror that had been missing from our screens for far too long. As the Indian film industry continues to evolve, we can only hope for more groundbreaking horror films that keep us on the edge of our seats and remind us of the power of a well-crafted scare.
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