Indian cinema is known for its vibrant storytelling, colorful song and dance sequences, and heartwarming narratives. However, there’s a darker side to this industry where filmmakers delve into unsettling themes and push the boundaries of conventional storytelling.
Here are some of the most disturbing films in Indian cinema that offer a haunting and thought-provoking experience:
- Tumbbad (2018) – Hindi
- Ratsasan (2018) – Tamil
- Bandit Queen (1994) – Hindi
- Raman Raghav 2.0 (2016) – Hindi
- Maharaja (2024) – Tamil
- Welcome Home (2020) – Hindi
- NH10 (2015) – Hindi
- Jallikattu (2019) – Malayalam
- 13B (2009) – Hindi
- Pari (2018) – Hindi
- Ajji (2017) – Hindi
- Matrubhoomi (2003) – Hindi
1. Tumbbad (2018) – Hindi
Directed by Rahi Anil Barve, Tumbbad is a unique blend of folklore and gothic horror. The story revolves around a family in search of a hidden treasure in the village of Tumbbad. The film’s eerie atmosphere, coupled with themes of greed and curses, creates a haunting experience that lingers long after the credits roll.
2. Ratsasan (2018) – Tamil
In Ratsasan, directed by Ram Kumar, a police officer is on the hunt for a serial killer targeting schoolgirls. The film’s intense narrative and graphic portrayal of the murders make it a deeply disturbing watch. The psychological tension and gripping storyline keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
3. Bandit Queen (1994) – Hindi
Bandit Queen, directed by Shekhar Kapur, is based on the life of Phoolan Devi. The film showcases her transformation from a gang rape victim to a feared bandit leader. Its unflinching portrayal of violence and revenge is both powerful and disturbing, leaving a lasting impact on the audience.
4. Raman Raghav 2.0 (2016) – Hindi
Anurag Kashyap’s Raman Raghav 2.0 is inspired by the real-life serial killer Raman Raghav. The film’s gritty narrative and Nawazuddin Siddiqui’s chilling performance as the psychopath make it a profoundly disturbing experience. The film explores the dark depths of human psyche and morality.
5. Maharaja (2024) – Tamil
Maharaja tells the story of an investigation into a stolen dustbin, which unravels into a series of unexpected twists. The plot’s gradual descent into shocking and unsettling territory makes it a compelling yet disturbing watch.
6. Welcome Home (2020) – Hindi
Directed by Pushkar Mahabal, Welcome Home follows two census workers who find themselves trapped in a house of horrors. The psychological and physical terror they endure makes for an extremely disturbing watch, as the film explores themes of captivity and survival.
7. NH10 (2015) – Hindi
NH10, directed by Navdeep Singh, follows a couple who encounter brutal violence in rural India. The film’s realistic depiction of fear, survival, and societal issues is deeply disturbing and thought-provoking. It sheds light on the harsh realities faced by many in the country.
8. Jallikattu (2019) – Malayalam
Directed by Lijo Jose Pellissery, Jallikattu is a chaotic and intense film about a buffalo that escapes in a remote village, leading to mayhem. The film’s raw energy and depiction of human nature at its most primal make it a disturbing yet compelling watch.
9. 13B (2009) – Hindi
In 13B, directed by Vikram Kumar, a family’s life becomes entwined with a TV show that mirrors their reality. The film’s eerie atmosphere and suspenseful plot create a disturbing and creepy experience. It explores the thin line between reality and illusion, keeping viewers on edge.
10. Pari (2018) – Hindi
Pari, directed by Prosit Roy, deviates from typical Bollywood horror tropes. The film’s unsettling narrative about demonic possession and dark rituals, coupled with haunting visuals, makes it a deeply disturbing watch. It offers a fresh take on horror, pushing the boundaries of the genre.
11. Ajji (2017) – Hindi
Directed by Devashish Makhija, Ajji is a dark tale of an elderly woman seeking revenge for her granddaughter’s rape. The film’s raw depiction of violence and the lengths to which Ajji goes to achieve justice is deeply unsettling. It challenges viewers to confront the harsh realities of violence and retribution.
12. Matrubhoomi (2003) – Hindi
Matrubhoomi, directed by Manish Jha, portrays a dystopian future where women are almost extinct due to female infanticide. The film’s exploration of gender violence and societal collapse is harrowing and thought-provoking. It serves as a powerful commentary on gender inequality and the consequences of societal norms.
These films, with their disturbing themes and bold storytelling, push the boundaries of Indian cinema. They offer a glimpse into the darker aspects of human nature and society, challenging viewers to confront uncomfortable truths.
You may also like:- 10 Bollywood Movies To Watch on International Friendship Day
- Top 10 Horny Movies to Get High on Mood
- Top 9 Hot and Romantic Movies for Your Weekend
- 5-Star Hotel Rates Skyrocket in Mumbai’s BKC Due to Anant Ambani-Radhika Merchant Wedding
- Top 15 Hits Movies of Rajesh Khanna
- Top 10 Best Pawan Kalyan Movies
- Raveena Tandon Allegedly Attacked in Bandra After Being Accused of Rash Driving
- Vibhu Agarwal Announces Another OTT Platform ‘Hari Om’ Based on Mythology
- Top 15 Evergreen Bollywood Songs You Must Listen
- The Unknown Side Business Ventures of Bollywood Actors
[…] gather your friends, create a cozy movie night, and immerse yourself in these Bollywood gems that celebrate the beauty, joy, and resilience of […]