Get ready for Halloween 2025 with a selection of Bollywood’s finest horror films that promise a thrilling and uniquely Indian scare. Forget jump scares; these movies offer atmospheric dread, cultural depth, and a touch of spooky nostalgia that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Indian cinema has a rich history of weaving captivating horror narratives, often drawing from local legends and myths. This list highlights five films that have successfully pushed the boundaries of “desi” horror, making them perfect for a festive binge.
**1. Makdee (2002):** A childhood favorite for many, this film features a truly iconic villain in Shabana Azmi’s witch. Vishal Bhardwaj’s direction brings a dark fantasy element to life, enhanced by Azmi’s incredible costume and makeup. It’s a magical yet terrifying watch, rated 7.5 on IMDb.
**2. Stree (2018):** This highly successful horror-comedy revitalized the genre. Its clever script, engaging characters, and the chilling enigma of Shraddha Kapoor’s witch create a perfect blend of humor and terror. Directed by Amar Kaushik and featuring Rajkummar Rao, it’s a modern classic available on Prime Video and JioHotstar.
**3. Tumbbad (2018):** Hailed as a masterpiece, this folk horror film is a visual spectacle steeped in Indian mythology. The story of an ancient goddess and insatiable greed is told with breathtaking cinematography and a deeply unsettling atmosphere. Rahi Anil Barve, Anand Gandhi, and Adesh Prasad directed this critically acclaimed movie with an 8.2 IMDb rating, streamable on Prime Video.
**4. Pari (2018):** Anushka Sharma steps into a dark and mysterious role as a supernatural entity. “Pari” offers a departure from conventional Bollywood horror, delivering a more psychological and unsettling experience. Directed by Prosit Roy, it’s an atmospheric film with a 6.6 IMDb score that’s worth exploring.
**5. Raat (1992):** This cult classic from Ram Gopal Verma is a quintessential example of Indian horror. “Raat” expertly blends classic haunted house elements with local superstitions, creating a palpable sense of dread. Revathi’s performance is central to this enduringly scary film, rated 7 on IMDb and available on Prime Video.