When it comes to planning a Halloween movie marathon, Hollywood horror franchises are often the first choice. However, Indian cinema also has plenty of supernatural thrillers that can deliver an equally chilling experience. Drawing inspiration from traditional folklore, ancient myths, regional beliefs and age-old superstitions, these films create an atmosphere of mystery and fear through compelling storytelling and suspense.
From haunted estates to terrifying supernatural creatures, here are five Indian supernatural thrillers worth adding to your Halloween watchlist.
5 Indian Supernatural Thrillers to Stream This Halloween
1. Tumbbad – Amazon Prime Video
Set in a rain-soaked village in colonial-era Maharashtra, Tumbbad explores a terrifying family curse connected to Hastar, a mythical monster god believed to possess an endless treasure of gold. The story follows a man who risks his life by entering a mysterious underground dungeon in search of the precious treasure. As greed takes control, he becomes increasingly entangled in a dangerous legacy passed down through generations.
2. Bramayugam – SonyLIV
Presented entirely in black and white, this Malayalam period horror film features Mammootty in a frightening role as Kodumon Potti, the mysterious owner of a decaying feudal mansion in 17th-century Malabar. The story begins when a fleeing court singer seeks shelter at the estate. However, his temporary refuge soon turns into a nightmare as he becomes trapped in a disturbing world involving black magic, caste discrimination and supernatural folklore.
3. Bulbbul – Netflix
Set in late 19th-century Bengal, Bulbbul combines gothic horror, mystery and feminist themes through a fresh interpretation of the traditional Chudail legend. Tripti Dimri plays a young bride who gradually transforms into an enigmatic woman as a series of mysterious killings target men in her village. With its haunting atmosphere and striking blood-red visuals against moonlit nights, the film presents a distinctive take on supernatural storytelling.
4. Bhoothakaalam – SonyLIV
For viewers who enjoy psychological horror that builds tension gradually, Bhoothakaalam offers an unsettling cinematic experience. The film follows a mother and son, played by Revathi and Shane Nigam, who struggle with clinical depression while living an isolated life. As disturbing experiences begin to unfold, the story creates uncertainty between psychological distress and possible supernatural possession. This growing tension eventually leads to an intensely suspenseful climax.
5. Kumari – Netflix
Inspired by the mythical folklore of northern Kerala, Kumari follows a newly married woman, played by Aishwarya Lekshmi, who moves into an isolated family property surrounded by dense forests. As she adjusts to her new surroundings, she gradually uncovers the disturbing secrets behind her family’s legacy. She discovers that the family’s power and prosperity are connected to generations-old sinister agreements with evil supernatural beings known as Chathan.
Final Takeaway
These five Indian supernatural thrillers offer different interpretations of horror, drawing from regional mythology, folklore, family curses and psychological mysteries. If you are looking beyond conventional Hollywood horror films this Halloween, these titles provide plenty of eerie storytelling to explore.