Were you aware that horror movies can contribute to burning calories? However, this doesn't mean that you should indulge in a horror movie marathon to shed off the extra weight you've gained. Do you have any favorite spine-chilling horror movies in Bollywood? It's unlikely that you do. Bollywood has a poor reputation for creating horror movies that are more focused on visuals of a girl showering than delivering scares. These movies were far from being classified as horror, and instead felt like an uncomfortable mix of sleaze and terror. Who could forget the iconic haveli and the infamous Ramu Kaka, who has resided there for years? The eerie lampshades and growling voices heard at midnight were memorable but not very scary. The ghosts lacked any real monstrous qualities and more closely resembled characters from erotic thrillers.

1. Phone Bhoot

Produced by Farhan Akhtar and Ritesh Sidhwani under the Excel Entertainment brand, "Phone Bhoot" is a 2022 Indian Hindi-language supernatural comedy film, also known as "Phone Ghost." The movie was directed by Gurmeet Singh and stars Jackie Shroff, Siddhant Chaturvedi, Ishaan Khattar, and Katrina Kaif. It was released on November 4, 2022, to mixed reviews from critics.

The movie follows the story of Major and Gullu, two unemployed young men who aspire to become professional exorcists and ghostbusters. They reside in a rented home and pray to their friend "Raka," whose statue they found while digging a hill, to help them overcome poverty. One day, they receive Raka's approval and plan a ghost Halloween party at midnight. When Raka's eyes suddenly close, they connect the eyeballs' light source to a live wire to repair them. To learn more, one must watch the film.

2. Bulbul

Anvita Dutt wrote and directed Bulbbul, a supernatural thriller that takes place in India in 2020. The film features Avinash Tiwary, Paoli Dam, Rahul Bose, and Parambrata Chattopadhyay, with Tripti Dimri in the lead role. Anushka Sharma and Karnesh Sharma produced the movie under the banner of Clean Slate Films. Tripti Dimri's performance received mostly positive reviews. The film is set in Bengal during the 1880s and follows the journey of a young bride from helplessness to strength. Bulbbul premiered on Netflix on June 24, 2020.

The story is set in a Bengal village in the nineteenth century, where five-year-old Bulbbul is married off to Indranil, the Bado Thakur (Elder Lord). She befriends Indranil's younger brother, Satya, who is closer to her age, and they grow up together, sharing stories about a demonic woman known as "chudail."

3. Mahal – 1949

Ever wondered about the origins of gothic horror films? Thanks to Kamal Amrohi, who directed the 1949 film "Mahal", we can trace the beginnings of this genre in Indian cinema. Starring Ashok Kumar and Madhubala, this movie was the first in India to be based on the theme of reincarnation and featured the popular ghostly song "Aayega Aane Wala". It is possible that the love for Havelis, traditional Indian mansions, began with this film. The plot is full of suspense, as it follows a young lawyer who buys an old palace and discovers the tragic story of two lovers whose love failed. Eventually, the lawyer realizes that he is the reincarnation of one of the lovers, and the ghost haunting the palace is his past-life lover Kamini. However, there is a surprising twist that you'll have to watch the Bollywood horror movie to discover.

4. Ragini MMS – 2011

A young couple planned a weekend getaway in the form of a staycation, but their visit to the boy's house led to a strange incident. The movie serves as a cautionary tale about not trusting everyone. The boy named Vishal is involved in a despicable business of manipulating and recording the affections of young and innocent girls. However, this time he becomes a victim of the spirit that haunts the house. Vishal meets his demise, while Ragini is discovered in an ambiguous and otherworldly state by some strangers. The story contains numerous plot twists, and it is evident that Balaji Telefilms is skilled in crafting compelling narratives.

5. Kohraa – 1964

The successful thriller horror film, penned by Dhruva Chatterjee and featuring Waheeda Rehman, Biswajeet, and Lalita Pawar, drew inspiration from Daphne du Maurier's 1938 novel Rebecca. The movie includes a mansion and a caretaker named Dai Maa, typical of horror films. The protagonist, Amit Kumar Singh, weds the stunning Rajeshwari, but while he's away on a business trip, Rajeshwari discovers that his previous spouse, Poonam, is deceased and attempting to communicate with her from beyond the grave. With each passing day, Rajeshwari uncovers new information about the ghost and must solve the mystery of who killed Poonam and why she is reaching out to Rajeshwari. To discover the truth, watch this Bollywood horror flick.

6. Raaz – 2002

This movie from the 90s is etched in the memory of many, thanks to the undeniable on-screen chemistry between Bipasha Basu and Dino Morea, as well as the stunning locations and captivating music that made it the talk of the town. The film earned a whopping ₹370 million at the box office, cementing its place as a blockbuster hit in February 2002. While the plot follows the usual tropes of a horror story, with themes of infidelity, revenge, and marital strife, it provided a much-needed career boost to the actors involved. Even to this day, the movie remains spine-chilling enough to warrant watching with company, making it a nightmare-inducing classic from the world of Indian horror cinema.

7. Bhoot- 2003

Ram Gopal Verma once again delved into the horror genre and succeeded in delivering another blockbuster hit with the help of Ajay Devgan and Urmilla. Urmilla's outstanding performance in this bone-chilling horror movie garnered her numerous awards and accolades. The movie revolves around a rented house with a mysterious past that has witnessed multiple murders. A man's desire leads to the killing of a woman and her son. When Ajay and Urmilla move into the house, the latter starts exhibiting eerie behavior reminiscent of the deceased woman, even resorting to murder. Although the plot of the movie is straightforward, the direction elevates it to one of the best Bollywood horror films.

8. Darna Mana Hai- 2003

Is a horror movie with multiple storylines something they are familiar with? 'Darna Mana Hai' is an Indian horror movie that lives up to its name. The movie revolves around a group of seven individuals who find themselves trapped in a house located in the woods. To pass the time, they take turns telling each other spooky stories. However, the climax of the movie delivers an unexpected twist as the identity of the killer is revealed. This is a must-watch movie that will give you goosebumps and should be added to your list of weekend binge-watching. It is challenging not to feel frightened, but as the saying goes, 'Darna Mana Hai.'

9. 1920 – 2008

In the backdrop of 1920s, a newlywed couple finds themselves in a magnificent mansion haunted by vengeful spirits. The film boasts of stunning visuals and seamless transitions, setting it apart from the typical Bollywood horror movies of our childhood. This is definitely one of the best horror movies in India, with its surreal portrayal of exorcism being a major highlight. It is highly recommended to give it a watch, and it could also make for a perfect movie choice for a date night. We are curious to know how you interpret and experience the movie.

10. Phoonk – 2008

Have you ever been tempted with an offer of 500,000 rupees to watch a movie? Ram Gopal Verma has a way of captivating us. This movie offers numerous reasons to watch, from its unique storylines to its exploration of black magic. The film's punchline, "it's superstitious unless it happens to you," adds to its intrigue. Once again, Verma has demonstrated his dominance in the horror genre, producing exceptional works for over a decade. However, it is advisable not to watch this movie alone.

Conclusion

Our exposure to Indian horror movies has taught us to be wary of trusting anyone and to heed warnings against visiting haunted houses. Prioritizing safety over excitement is crucial. Embracing the existence of ghosts and supernatural forces is also advisable. If you're daring enough, would you be willing to marathon these 10 Bollywood horror films?