This Halloween 2025, get ready for a frightfully good time with five essential Bollywood horror films. These movies offer a unique blend of cultural scares, nostalgic charm, and gripping suspense that sets “desi” horror apart. Prepare for a binge-watching session filled with eerie tales and unforgettable characters.
Bollywood has consistently delivered memorable horror experiences by weaving in elements of Indian folklore, dramatic narratives, and striking visuals. Here are five films that have left a lasting impact on the genre and are perfect for your Halloween celebrations:
**1. Makdee (2002):** Shabana Azmi is absolutely terrifying as the witch in this Vishal Bhardwaj directorial. The film’s dark fantasy elements, coupled with its impressive makeup and costumes, make it a standout horror flick. It’s a compelling watch for its spooky atmosphere and story, boasting a 7.5 IMDb rating.
**2. Stree (2018):** A modern classic that successfully merges comedy with horror. The story of a mysterious witch preying on unsuspecting men is both thrilling and amusing, thanks to a brilliant script and performances from its ensemble cast, including Shraddha Kapoor and Rajkummar Rao. Stream it on Prime Video or JioHotstar.
**3. Tumbbad (2018):** Widely regarded as one of the best Indian horror films, “Tumbbad” is a visual masterpiece that explores themes of divinity and greed through a folk horror lens. Its unique setting and unnerving atmosphere create a truly immersive experience. Directed by Rahi Anil Barve and others, it holds an 8.2 IMDb rating and is on Prime Video.
**4. Pari (2018):** Anushka Sharma delivers a performance that is both haunting and captivating in this supernatural thriller. “Pari” offers a different kind of scare, focusing on psychological tension and an unsettling narrative. Directed by Prosit Roy, it’s a critically interesting film with a 6.6 IMDb score.
**5. Raat (1992):** A pioneering film in Indian horror, “Raat” remains a chilling watch decades later. Ram Gopal Verma’s direction effectively combines supernatural elements with everyday fears, making for a truly scary experience. Revathi’s role is pivotal in this cult classic, rated 7 on IMDb and available on Prime Video.