The re-release of Tumbbad is an extraordinary event, celebrating the mythological horror film that took a painstaking 15 years to complete and has since become a cult phenomenon. Directed by Rahi Anil Barve, Tumbbad initially hit theaters in 2018 but quickly disappeared from the box office, overshadowed by more conventional blockbusters. However, its unique narrative, blending folklore, horror, and allegorical themes, found new life when the pandemic brought it into the spotlight through OTT platforms like Amazon Prime. This rediscovery fueled a growing cult following, which culminated in the film’s return to cinemas on Friday the 13th, where it continues to thrill audiences(Deccan Chronicle)(NewsBytes).
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The 15-Year Journey: From Vision to Reality
The journey to bring Tumbbad to life was a battle against time, finances, and sheer willpower. Barve first envisioned the film in the mid-1990s after hearing a folk horror tale by Marathi writer Narayan Dharap. Despite creating an initial draft in the late 90s, it took over a decade of revisions, struggles, and delays before filming could even begin. Barve’s diary entries from 2011 and 2012 reflect the passion and frustration of an independent filmmaker trying to turn his ambitious dream into a reality.
The film’s biggest challenge was its vision of an authentic atmosphere, which required Tumbbad to be shot over four consecutive monsoons. Every scene of rain and storm that drenched the sets was real, contributing to the film’s haunting atmosphere and enriching its folklore-driven horror(
Deccan Chronicle)(NewsBytes).
The Film’s Story: A Tale of Greed and Folklore
At its core, Tumbbad is more than just a horror movie. It’s an allegory of greed and how unchecked ambition can lead to self-destruction. The story revolves around the character Vinayak Rao (played by Sohum Shah), who becomes obsessed with the cursed treasure of Hastar, the forgotten son of the Goddess of Prosperity. The film explores human gluttony and the lengths one can go to fulfill their desires, even when it leads to dire consequences.
This unique premise, coupled with its mythological underpinnings, offers viewers a terrifying but introspective experience. The horror in Tumbbad is not just in the grotesque visuals but in the moral decay that unravels throughout the film. The cyclical nature of greed and its consequences is embodied in Vinayak’s desperate attempts to seize wealth, ultimately leading to his transformation into a grotesque creature—an echo of the horror that transcends the physical(NewsBytes).
Why the Re-Release Matters
Tumbbad‘s re-release is a testament to the power of cinema that goes beyond mainstream success. What was initially a box-office failure has now become a cult classic, hailed for its cinematic brilliance and original storytelling. This second run in theaters allows both new audiences and loyal fans to witness its grandeur on the big screen, where its visual and narrative strengths truly shine. The film earned over ₹1.63 crore on its re-release day, demonstrating that its appeal has grown stronger over time(Deccan Chronicle).
Cinematic Brilliance: The Making of a Masterpiece
One of the film’s greatest strengths lies in its cinematography and visual storytelling. Shot across natural locations during heavy monsoons, Tumbbad uses its setting to evoke both dread and awe. The visuals are soaked in rain, fog, and darkness, enhancing the eerie mood and the mystical nature of the film’s world. The practical effects and minimal reliance on CGI give it a grounded feel that amplifies the horror.
What sets Tumbbad apart is its layered narrative that intertwines horror with philosophical themes of greed, poverty, and the caste system in pre-Independence India. The goddess’s curse on the village, Hastar’s greed for gold and food, and Vinayak’s obsession with wealth create a tale that transcends simple genre boundaries. It’s a psychological and moral journey into the darkest corners of human nature(
Deccan Chronicle)(NewsBytes).
What Critics Are Saying
Critics and fans alike have celebrated Tumbbad‘s re-release, calling it a “stunning and unforgettable masterpiece” that deserves the recognition it’s finally receiving. The film’s complex themes and stunning visual storytelling have been widely praised, with particular attention to its folk-horror roots and the rich cultural mythology that underpins its narrative. The film has been described as a commentary on human greed, its consequences, and how horror can be found in moral decay, rather than just supernatural entities(NewsBytes).
Where to Stream Tumbbad
For those who miss the chance to catch Tumbbad in theaters during its limited re-release, the film is currently streaming on Amazon Prime Video. This re-release serves as a reminder of the evolving landscape of film appreciation, where movies can find their audience long after their initial debut, thanks to streaming platforms.
Final Thoughts
Tumbbad is not just a film—it’s a cinematic experience that challenges the boundaries of horror and storytelling. With its return to theaters, it stands as a symbol of resilience, both in its narrative and in the journey of its creation. For those who haven’t experienced this mythological horror gem yet, now is the perfect time to dive into the world of Tumbbad—a place where horror, folklore, and human greed converge in unforgettable ways.