Tumbbad (2018) is a genre-defining Indian film that seamlessly blends mythology, horror, and drama. Directed by Rahi Anil Barve and co-scripted by Mitesh Shah, Prasad Barve, and Anand Gandhi, the film is a cinematic masterpiece that captivates with its haunting visuals, gripping performances, and deeply immersive storytelling.
Set against a spine-chilling backdrop, Tumbbad delves into the world of greed, legacy, and myth, presenting a tale that is both thought-provoking and visually striking. Known for its dark and atmospheric setting, the movie has redefined horror in Indian cinema and has been hailed as a benchmark for storytelling in the genre.
This September, the film is being re-released in theaters, giving new audiences the opportunity to experience its magic on the big screen. If you missed it the first time, now’s your chance to witness one of the most unique cinematic offerings to come out of Indian cinema.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Movie | Tumbbad |
| Language | Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Marathi |
| Screen | 2D |
| Release Date | 12 October 2018; Re-release: 13 September 2024 |
| Star Cast | Sohum Shah, Harish Khannaa, Anita Date, Jyoti Malshe, Deepak Damle |
| Country | India |
| Genres | Fantasy, Horror, Period |
| Director | Rahi Anil Barve |
| Producers | Aanand L. Rai, Sohum Shah, Mukesh Shah |
| Music | Ajay-Atul |
| Cinematographer | Pankaj Kumar |
| Editor | Sanyukta Kaza |
| Production Companies | Colour Yellow Productions, Sohum Shah Films, Film i Väst |
Plot
Tumbbad follows the story of Vinayak Rao, a man consumed by insatiable greed and an unrelenting desire for wealth. Set in a rain-soaked village cursed by the legend of Hastar, a mythical deity shrouded in unimaginable riches, the tale revolves around Vinayak’s obsession with uncovering the secrets of Hastar’s treasure hidden within the eerie confines of a temple. As Vinayak delves deeper into this forbidden pursuit, his moral compass deteriorates, and he becomes blinded by his avarice, ultimately descending into a pit of depravity. The intertwining of mythological intrigue and a profound exploration of human flaws makes this story deeply compelling and unsettling.
Performance
Sohum Shah delivers a career-defining performance as Vinayak Rao, capturing the character’s greed and madness with chilling precision. His portrayal of a man consumed by his desires is both haunting and captivating, making the audience feel the weight of his psychological descent. Supporting performances by Harish Khanna and Anita Date add depth and nuance to the story, with their characters embodying the same struggles of greed and fear that define the film’s core themes. Together, the cast amplifies the eerie atmosphere of Tumbbad, making it an unforgettable cinematic experience.
Direction and Screenplay
Rahi Anil Barve’s Tumbbad is a revolutionary piece of Indian cinema. The film is intricately directed by Barve, with Mohammed Ismail crafting every frame to immerse viewers in a haunting and unsettling world. The screenplay, co-written by Mitesh Shah, Prasad Barve, and Anand Gandhi, masterfully combines mythology and human drama, ensuring the story remains gripping throughout. The gradual build-up of suspense and mystery surrounding the treasure and its sinister guardian keeps the audience on edge, creating an atmosphere that is both engaging and unnerving.
Music
The music and sound design, created by the talented duo Ajay-Atul and Jesper Kyd, elevate Tumbbad to another level. Harrowing melodies and haunting ambient sounds amplify the film’s tension and dread, leaving an indelible impression. From the rustling winds of the rain-drenched village to the ominous score accompanying pivotal moments, the audio design deepens the eerie atmosphere. Listening to the soundtrack alone evokes the same spine-chilling emotions, making the film’s music an integral part of its haunting allure.
Theme
Tumbbad transcends the boundaries of a conventional horror story, delving into deeper themes of greed and its cursed power. The film serves as a critique of humanity’s relentless pursuit of material wealth at the cost of morality, relationships, and sanity. Using the myth of Hastar as a metaphor, the story explores how unchecked greed consumes everything in its path. The rain-drenched village, the decaying temple devoid of worship, and the suffocating atmosphere all reflect the destructive consequences of avarice. Beyond its chilling narrative, Tumbbad offers a profound moral lesson wrapped in an enthralling tale.
Release Date
Tumbbad first graced theaters on October 12, 2018, garnering both critical and commercial success. Its fresh concept, unique storytelling, and breathtaking cinematography resonated with audiences and critics alike. Praised for its daring fusion of fantasy and horror, a genre rarely explored in Indian cinema, the film became a standout. Following its theatrical run, Tumbbad expanded its audience through streaming platforms like Prime Video and JioCinema, ensuring its legacy reached far and wide.
Re-Release and Legacy
On September 13, 2024, Tumbbad will return to theaters, offering new viewers a chance to experience its haunting brilliance on the big screen. Over the years, the film has solidified its place as a revolutionary work in Indian cinema, inspiring a shift toward incorporating folklore and myth into genre films. Its impact has whetted the appetite for more stories rooted in Indian mythology, seamlessly blending them with modern cinematic elements, thus transforming the narrative landscape of the industry.
Review
Tumbbad is more than just a film—it’s a benchmark for Indian cinema, a testament to the power of storytelling when paired with innovative direction and gripping performances. It has set a new standard for movies that dare to intertwine folklore with deep human emotions, making it a must-watch for cinephiles.
Conclusion
Word-of-mouth acclaim catapulted Tumbbad into the elite club of Indian films grossing over ₹100 crore, a remarkable feat for a horror film. Its visual brilliance, gripping narrative, and stellar performances—particularly Sohum Shah’s portrayal of Vinayak Rao—cemented its place as a modern classic. The film’s re-release in September 2024 provides a rare opportunity for new audiences to experience its magic on the big screen. Whether you’re drawn to its mythological roots or its scathing critique of human greed, Tumbbad is a must-watch, available on IBomma for those who prefer an at-home viewing experience.