Horror is indeed an underdeveloped, underinvested, and often underappreciated genre in

Bollywood. Despite this, there have been several good horror movies produced over the years.
Bollywood's horror genre has also followed a familiar trajectory, including cult classics, low-
budget productions, video nasties, and eventually gaining recognition from mainstream directors
and actors. This evolution mirrors the development of horror genres in other world cinemas.

A memorable horror film is one that effectively taps into our genuine fears, emphasizing the
unseen over explicit blood and gore. However, in Bollywood, it's often observed that filmmakers
rely on conventional motifs, such as sending protagonists into old, dilapidated buildings, and
featuring saree-clad women with big bindis on their foreheads. This reliance on familiar tropes
can limit the genre's creativity and its ability to explore deeper psychological or cultural fears. To
stand out, Bollywood horror films could benefit from more innovative storytelling and a
willingness to break away from these traditional motifs to create a fresh and genuinely terrifying
cinematic experience.

The absence of imagination and originality in Bollywood's horror genre is indeed a concern. The
lack of artistic will to push boundaries and create daring, innovative narratives has led to a
saturation point in the genre. Filmmakers often resort to familiar formulas rather than inventing,
innovating, and redefining how we perceive horror films.
Horror films, historically, have been intertwined with human history, evolving alongside societal
shifts and tapping into people's deepest fears. Each era of unrest or change brings along its
own cinematic trends in horror. To revitalize the genre and captivate audiences, it's crucial for
filmmakers to rediscover their creative spark, challenge conventions, and explore new terrains
within the horror genre, offering fresh perspectives and genuine scares.

Indeed, "Tumbbad" is a notable departure from the conventional "wronged human takes
revenge from beyond the grave" trope that often dominates Bollywood horror. Directed by Rahil
Anil Barve, this 2018 folk horror film offered a fresh perspective by exploring pure evil entities.
What's remarkable is that it achieved this while maintaining a relatively low budget of around 5
Crore Indian Rupees. "Tumbbad" not only excelled but stood out as an outstanding horror film,
even when compared to higher-budget films. Its success in both storytelling and technical
aspects showcases the potential for innovation and excellence within the Indian horror genre.

In the film, there is an ancient fiend held in chains, a child who is a deity's offspring, possessing
both human and beastly traits, simmering with rage in his mother's womb. The film establishes
its narrative around the intriguing character of Hastar, this mythical child, and the reason behind
his wrongful subjugation. According to the story, the Goddess controlled both food crops and all
the gold in the world. Hastar, her son, managed to pilfer all the gold but was thwarted by other
gods before he could take the grain. Consequently, he is cursed to endure eternal hunger.
As Uma Maheswari Bhrugubanda argues “It is as if horror is a necessary precondition for the
appearance of the unrestrained goddess power”
In "Tumbbad," the womb is depicted as a disturbing, fleshy space that immerses you in the
sensation of being inside a human body, creating a rather unsettling atmosphere. Hastar, the
character, also shares this fleshy, red skin texture, resembling a demonic figure with sharp
teeth, a golden crown, and a loincloth that holds an endless supply of gold coins. This character
design is both eerie and effectively conveys the themes of greed present in the story. It's
instantly recognizable and aligns perfectly with the narrative of "Tumbbad."

In "Tumbbad," the mother returns the ravenous and avaricious god-child to her womb, allowing
him to exist under the condition that no living human should ever worship him. However, in the
village of Tumbbad in central India, a Brahmin family defies this rule and incurs a perpetual
curse as a result.
In "Tumbbad," two fundamental motifs are prominently featured: food and money. It's a common
human inclination to pursue wealth, but the film reminds us that money primarily serves as a
means to obtain sustenance. In the movie, food symbolizes crucial aspects of life, including
independence, not only for the nation but also for women, and the profound love for one's
family.
Conversely, gold or money is associated with negative attributes such as colonialism,
sycophancy, ruthless ambition, desire, and the absence of purpose in one's life. The film draws
a sharp contrast between these two motifs to explore deeper themes surrounding human values
and motivations.

Tumbbad is indeed a rare horror film that fearlessly delves into the horrors rooted in humanity,
often more terrifying than any supernatural monster. It shares this trait with films like "The
Witch," "Eraserhead," and "The Shining," all of which explore the unsettling aspects of human
existence. "Tumbbad" stands proudly alongside these films, offering unforgettable imagery, a
palpable atmosphere, and a captivating yet straightforward narrative.
The movie's atmosphere, the landscape it portrays, and its underlying themes are enhanced by
a palpable sense of Gothic dread and a sinister anticipation of the malevolent. This combination
of elements makes it a standout in the genre, capable of delivering a truly haunting and thought-
provoking cinematic experience.

The story revolves around the members of a single family, and we only encounter the
inhabitants of this village through their generational tale, which spans three chapters across
approximately thirty years. The narrative unfolds in the years leading up to the Partition. The
central focus is on a young boy named Vinayak Rao. The Rao family is depicted as a notably
dysfunctional one.
In "Tumbbad," justice is portrayed in a poetic manner, and the film ultimately finds redemption in
the rejection of greed. However, the film's setting, timeframe, and the dynamics of wealth are
essential components of this narrative. The fact that the Raos belong to the Brahmin caste is
significant, as it reflects their sense of entitlement, allowing them to disregard the gods' dictum
and pursue a stolen treasure. This societal context adds layers to the film's exploration of
themes like greed and entitlement.

The atmosphere crafted in the film "Tumbbad" immerses viewers in a world that feels
disconnected from reality. There is a deliberate effort to transport the audience to a desolate
and somber realm, a place characterized by vast emptiness yet pervaded by an eerie sense of
nothingness. This landscape is expansive, teeming with environmental elements, yet devoid of
sunlight, perpetually shrouded in heavy rain or cloudy skies.
Director Rahil Barve's intention was to leave the audience with a sensation of being drenched in
the atmosphere of the film. The color palette predominantly consists of blue, grey, red, and gold,
emphasizing the film's distinct visual identity and contributing to the overall sense of immersion
in this haunting and otherworldly setting.
.

The film's structure is neatly divided into three chapters, each raising a hermeneutic question.
The narrative begins with inquiries like, What happened to the grandmother to make her this
way? and where is Sarkaar's treasure hidden? These questions then evolve, such as where is
Vinayak obtaining these coins?" and "why does he bring back only a handful of coins at a time?"
As each question is resolved, another emerges, creating a continuous cycle of curiosity and
mystery.
When we’re introduced to Vinayak as a young boy in 1918, he resides in the perpetually rainy
village of Tumbbad, Maharashtra. A colossal, decaying mansion with imposing doors. At a
young age, greed already consumes him, and he is the son of a widow, a woman marked by
anger and fear as she goes about her daily life in the house. She is bald because Hindu widows
were traditionally required to shave their heads as a symbol of sexual neutrality. Her desire is
for a gold coin hidden deep within the mansion's treasury, and her goal is to escape. In stark
contrast, Vinayak's ambition knows no bounds as he covets all that the mansion holds.

When we are finally introduced to Hastar, we learn that Vinayak has to use food to deceive
Hastar and steal his gold. This parallels the British colonization of India, where the hungry
populace was preoccupied with filling their bellies while the British exploited the nation's wealth.
Vinayak's actions reflect the fueling of his own greed, mirroring the colonial era's exploitation.
However, within Vinayak, there is a glimmer of conscience. He pities Raghav's plight and
relieves him of his suffering. A picture of his mother in his home reminds us that her influence
still lives within him, somewhere deep. The timing of India's independence coincides with
Vinayak's aging. Although his family has grown larger, he finds it increasingly challenging to
obtain coins from Tumbbad. This symbolizes the end of the colonial era, which not only
benefitted the British but also the feudal lords of the country.

Uma Maheshwari says “While the male protagonist/star is able to emerge as an autonomous
citizen on the Indian screen, the female protagonist/star can only occupy the position of the
subjects as sati, the good wife” Tumbbad comments on this aspect as at one point In the film, it
becomes apparent that none of the female characters are given names. They are simply
identified by their roles and relationships, such as Dadi (grandmother), wife, and the mistress.
They exist in the narrative solely in relation to Vinayak.
What's intriguing is that even though Vinayak's life is profoundly influenced by the actions and
decisions of these women, he fails to recognize their value, much like his failure to appreciate
the significance of Indian independence and food

Barve masterfully crafts an immersive atmosphere of fantastical dread, rich with mesmerizing
visual intricacies. It harkens back to an era of filmmaking when horror was centered on tangible,
physical monsters and when otherworldly elements were fundamental to evoking fear. While the
film effectively reuses some of these traditional horror elements, it distinguishes itself by
introducing the relentless and profoundly human force known as greed. Greed is the driving
thread that guides the narrative into inevitable darkness, and it forms the foundation of the epic
morality tale that "Tumbbad" unfolds. This fusion of classic horror tropes with a deeply resonant
exploration of human frailty and desire creates a uniquely compelling cinematic experience.

"Tumbbad" is not only an epic morality tale but also an intimate piece of folklore horror with a
distinctive approach to crafting its mythical world. Each physical monster in the film serves as a
symbolic representation of greed and the ruthless consequences it brings. One might argue that
the film's themes and messages are explicit and leave little room for interpretation or
imagination. This heavy-handed approach to storytelling can, at times, verge on being
pretentious, as it doesn't leave much for the audience to discern on their own. Nonetheless, it
underscores the film's commitment to delivering its moral lessons and thematic elements in a
clear manner.
"Tumbbad" encounters a shift in its middle section where horror elements give way to dramatic
aspects. This transition has mixed results – at times, it is emotionally engaging and pertinent to
the narrative, while at other times, it feels somewhat out of place. The dissonance is
accentuated by a soundtrack that fits uneasily into these specific scenes. It presents an odd
change in pace and mood.
However, once the film regains its initial atmospheric tone in the final act, its strengths are
revitalized, leading to a visually striking and tension-filled conclusion. This final act manages to
recapture the film's atmospheric brilliance, leaving a lasting impact on the viewer.
Rahil Barve's background as an animation artist is evident in the meticulous attention to detail in
every frame of "Tumbbad." The film's visual presentation is remarkable, with each of the three
chapters having a distinct and meticulously crafted look. Tumbbad is portrayed as a foggy,
rainy, and claustrophobic environment externally, while it becomes terrifyingly red and sinewy
as we descend deeper, providing a potent backdrop for the confrontations between Vinayak and
Hastar.
The contributions of the cinematographer Pankaj Kumar, plays a crucial role in the film's visual
language avoiding unnecessary embellishments and lazy references, maintaining a unique and
captivating style.

In the second chapter, we witness Vinayak as a man with his own family, embarking on trips to
unearth more gold, which adds depth and complexity to his character's journey.
In "Tumbbad," Vinayak is portrayed as a predator and oppressor who, driven by greed and the
desire for validation as a man, returns to his ancestral roots in search of gold. His son, following
in his footsteps, is poised to continue down the same path.
The film unfolds over approximately 30 years, spanning India's history from a century ago to just
after 1947, and it astutely examines how upper-class Indian men contributed to the proliferation
of feudalism and imperialism. The narrative concludes with the dawn of capitalism, suggesting
that while the social structure evolves with new intermediaries in the power hierarchy, certain
aspects of the past persist.
Beyond being a portrayal of a haunted India, "Tumbbad" serves as a personal exploration of
one man's inner demons and the inevitability of him living with these demons regardless of his
achievements. It meticulously captures the period it depicts and resonates with contemporary
class structures that continue to exist in society today.

"Tumbbad" is an original, unsettling, and enveloping film, shrouded in a dreadful aura. It

masterfully blends fantasy and folklore, drawing on rich and captivating mythology to create a
dark and delirious nightmare. The film is further enhanced by its claustrophobic set pieces,
ominous camerawork, and an unrelenting score that heighten the overall sense of dread.
What's particularly impressive about Rahil Barve's debut feature is its avoidance of the
gimmicks that often detract from many Bollywood horror films. Instead, it remains firmly rooted
in its Indian origins, relying on its chilling atmosphere to build tension. It refrains from going
overboard with excessive elements, maintaining the audience's interest until the very end. This
restraint and commitment to atmospheric storytelling contribute to Tumbbad standing out as a
unique and compelling entry in the horror genre.

The remote location, period setting, dilapidated sets, perpetual rain, and pitch-dark alleys all
play a significant role in creating a pervasive sense of apprehension that keeps the audience
riveted throughout "Tumbbad." The film's menacing score further enhance the overall unsettling
atmosphere.
However, some of the performances in the film are a bit overdone and could have benefited
from a more restrained approach. Nevertheless, "Tumbbad" is a welcome addition to Bollywood
horror, showcasing a level of maturity that many of its counterparts lack. It excels in storytelling
and technical aspects, offering a polished cinematic experience. The film places a strong
emphasis on atmosphere to deliver its thrills, avoiding tired clichés, and is executed with finesse
by the debutant filmmaker, making it a standout entry in the genre.

Madhava prasad contends “Thus, an effective division of labour is posited between these two
kinds of cinema: one is modern, informed by the concerns and cares of the modern nation-state;
while the other is the domain of 'tradition' or oral/folk culture (depending on whether the interest
in cinema is of Indological or ethnographic provenance). Some even attribute to the latter a
conscious purpose: of asserting its autonomy, difference and even hostility to the 'modern'
sector”
"Tumbbad" skillfully blends elements from both categories of Indian cinema. This fusion is
evident in its narrative themes, visual aesthetics, character development, and cultural
significance. The film challenges the conventional notion of a strict divide between modernity
and tradition in Indian filmmaking.
The film's deep sense of time and place adds a significant layer of depth to its storytelling,
making it a compelling example of folk horror. Folk horror often carries political undertones, and
"Tumbbad" is no exception. It serves as a parable for the issues that afflicted India during that
period, issues that continue to resonate in the present and are relatable to challenges faced by
other nations as well. Ultimately, "Tumbbad" is a humane, imaginatively rich, and immensely
enjoyable film that offers a nuanced exploration of its themes and cultural context.

Works Cited :
1. Uma Maheswari Bhrugubanda Devotion and horror in a women’s genre: exploring
subalternity in cinema
2. Madhava Prasad : Ideology of the Hindi Film
3. Tumbbad Anniversary Screening - Q&A session - Sohum Shah Films