After its initial release in October 2018, Tumbbad quickly became a horror film beloved by critics, who praised its stunning cinematography, gripping story, and masterful direction. However, despite glowing reviews, the movie struggled to attract audiences, collecting only ₹13.48 crores against a budget of ₹15 crores during its original run.
Fast-forward to September 13, 2024, and Tumbbad has triumphantly returned to theatres. Fueled by massive pre-release anticipation, especially from fans who missed the cinematic experience the first time around, the Sohum Shah-starrer is now enjoying a resurgence. In its first week back on the big screen, Tumbbad raked in an impressive ₹13.44 crores, bringing its total earnings to ₹25.70 crores by the end of its second week.
If Tumbbad’s eerie atmosphere and its roots in Indian folklore captivated you, then you’re in for a treat. Indian cinema is rich with stories that delve deep into cultural myths, legends, and folk tales. These five films, like Tumbbad, weave tradition and mysticism into gripping narratives, each offering a unique cinematic experience.
1. Kantara (2022)
A mystical thriller that blends action and folklore, Kantara is a visually stunning film set in the heart of a coastal village in Karnataka. It explores themes of faith, nature, and justice while drawing heavily from the local tradition of Bhoota Kola, a ritualistic dance worship. The movie’s grounded approach to mysticism and its intense storytelling make it a perfect watch for Tumbbad fans.
2. Paheli (2005)
A magical love story set in Rajasthan, Paheli tells the tale of a woman caught between her husband and a spirit who takes his form. Based on the folk tale “Duvidha,” this visually rich film, starring Shah Rukh Khan and Rani Mukerji, brings to life the enchanting world of Indian folklore with a touch of romance and mystery.
3. Karnan (2021)
Rooted in the myths of rural Tamil Nadu, Karnan tells the tale of a young man who becomes a symbol of resistance for his oppressed community. The film weaves folklore and realism to tell a compelling story of heroism, drawing parallels to the mythical undertones seen in Tumbbad.
4. Jallikattu (2019)
A wild and visceral film, Jallikattu is an allegorical take on human nature, rooted in the traditional bull-taming event of the same name. Set in a small village, the film follows the chaos that unfolds when a buffalo escapes, unleashing primal instincts among the villagers. With its raw energy and exploration of human savagery, Jallikattu taps into the primal, folklore-infused spirit that fans of Tumbbad will surely find compelling.
5. Ponniyin Selvan (2022)
While rooted more in historical fiction than supernatural folklore, Ponniyin Selvan masterfully intertwines legend and reality. This epic tale, set in the Chola dynasty, is filled with intrigue, power struggles, and mythical undertones, offering a grand narrative that echoes the same timeless quality seen in Tumbbad. Mani Ratnam’s direction elevates this adaptation of Kalki Krishnamurthy’s classic novel into a cinematic spectacle.
