7 fascinating movies like Tumbbad that are inspired by Indian folklore 

Arpita Sarkar

Tumbbad

Actor-producer Sohum Shah's film Tumbbad re-released in theatres on September 13 after its initial release in 2018. Let's have a look at films like Tumbbad that are inspired by Indian folklore. 

Stree (Hotstar) and Stree 2

Set in the remote village of Chanderi, both the horror comedy movies are inspired by the true story of Nale Ba, a malevolent spirit that would attack men by mimicking the voices of their loved ones and calling their names.

Kantara (Netflix)

It tells the story of Kaadubettu Shiva – a Kambala champion, who gets possessed by Panjurli Daiva, the forest deity, to solve a conflict between man and nature. The movie also highlights on ‘bhoota kola’, a dance form performed by locals to worship the deities.

Bulbbul (Netflix) 

Triptii Dimri starrer blends horror with drama as it forays into the supernatural genre, drawing inspiration from the folklore of Chudail, an evil entity mentioned in Indian folklore.

Pari (Prime Video)

Anushka Sharma's horror thriller explores an eastern demonic folklore, associated with Islamic demons and cults, with horror tropes. It is a must-watch film like Tumbbad.

Paheli (Netflix)

The movie is based on a Rajasthani short story, which explores the love between a home-maker and a ghost. In this movie, Shah Rukh Khan plays a dual role. 

Kumari (Netflix)

The Malayalam film blens Indian folklore with fantasy. The movie revolves around a woman named Kumari, who gets married in a cursed country located in the west. Upon returning to the village, she uncovers a horror truth.

Munjya (Disney+ Hotstar)

Maddock Supernatural Universe's film is based on a Maharashtrian folklore about the spirits of boys who die after the upanayana ceremony, but before marriage.