From folk horror and supernatural chills to smart horror-comedies, these Bollywood horror-thriller movies show how the genre has evolved on streaming platforms
New Delhi: Bollywood horror films have changed significantly over the years. Earlier, filmmakers mostly relied on loud jump scares to frighten audiences. However, modern horror-thrillers now explore mythology, folklore, psychology, social issues and even humour.
Because OTT platforms made these films easily accessible, viewers can enjoy high-quality horror stories anytime at home. As a result, movies ranging from dark classics like Tumbbad to entertaining horror-comedies like Stree have found a wider audience.
This list brings together 20 must-watch Bollywood horror-thriller movies along with their streaming platforms.
Tumbbad (2018)
Streaming on Amazon Prime Video
Tumbbad stands among the finest horror films ever made in India. Set in early 20th-century Maharashtra, the story follows Vinayak Rao, a man driven by greed as he hunts for a hidden treasure guarded by the cursed god Hastar. As the narrative unfolds, the film explores greed, inheritance and moral decay. Moreover, its haunting visuals, slow pacing and dark tone create fear that lingers long after the movie ends.
Stree (2018)
Streaming on Amazon Prime Video
Inspired by an urban legend, Stree revolves around a female spirit who abducts men at night. The plot unfolds in a small town where a group of friends attempts to uncover the truth behind the mysterious disappearances. While the film delivers spooky moments, it also blends comedy and delivers a subtle social message. Consequently, Stree emerged as one of Bollywood’s most popular horror-comedy films.
Raaz (2002)
Streaming on Amazon Prime Video
Raaz played a key role in reviving mainstream Bollywood horror in the early 2000s. The film follows a troubled couple who move to Ooty in hopes of saving their marriage. Soon, the wife experiences disturbing supernatural events linked to the house’s dark history. Gradually, emotional tension and suspense build the fear, making the movie a memorable horror classic.
13B: Fear Has a New Address (2009)
Streaming on Disney+ Hotstar
In 13B, a family’s life begins to mirror the events of a daily television show they watch. Over time, the show starts predicting horrifying incidents inside their own home. As fear intensifies, the family struggles to determine whether the threat is supernatural or psychological. Due to its unique concept and realistic setting, the film leaves a strong impact.
Ek Thi Daayan (2013)
Streaming on Netflix
Drawing inspiration from Indian folklore, Ek Thi Daayan focuses on a magician haunted by disturbing childhood memories. Soon, strange visions lead him toward secrets involving witchcraft and family trauma. By blending psychological tension with supernatural elements, the movie maintains suspense and mystery throughout.
Bulbbul (2020)
Streaming on Netflix
Set during the colonial era in Bengal, Bulbbul tells the story of a young bride trapped in a cruel household. Meanwhile, mysterious killings of men begin to terrify the village. The film skillfully combines folklore with reality while addressing themes of injustice, trauma and revenge. With striking visuals and a powerful message, it delivers a unique horror experience.
Chhorii 2 (2025)
Streaming on Amazon Prime Video
Chhorii 2 continues the rural horror narrative introduced in Chhorii. Set in an isolated region, the film explores emotional trauma, hidden fears and supernatural threats rooted in village traditions. By focusing on mood and psychological tension, the sequel strengthens its place in modern folk horror cinema.
Shaitaan (2024)
Streaming on Netflix / Amazon Prime Video (varies)
Shaitaan centres on a family whose daughter falls under the influence of black magic. As her behaviour changes, her parents confront terrifying supernatural forces. The film balances emotional drama with dark horror, creating an intense and unsettling story.
Kakuda (2024)
Streaming on ZEE5
Set in a cursed village, Kakuda follows residents who must follow strict daily rituals to survive. When someone breaks the rules, chaos erupts. Using humour, folklore and mild scares, the movie entertains without becoming overly frightening.
Munjya (2024)
Streaming on Disney+ Hotstar
Munjya, part of the Maddock Horror Universe, draws from Maharashtrian folklore. The story follows a young man haunted by a mischievous yet dangerous spirit linked to his family history. With comedy, visual effects and folklore, the film offers enjoyable horror entertainment.
1920: The Evil Returns (2012)
OTT availability varies
Part of the 1920 franchise, this film revolves around a haunted mansion hiding tragic secrets. Featuring possession, exorcism and doomed romance, it stays true to classic horror traditions. Fans of old-school horror will appreciate its familiar tone.
Bhoot – Part One: The Haunted Ship (2020)
Streaming on Amazon Prime Video
Set aboard an abandoned ship near Mumbai, the movie follows a shipping officer investigating unexplained events. As the mystery deepens, supernatural forces take control. The isolated setting of the ship intensifies suspense and fear.
Chhorii (2021)
Streaming on Amazon Prime Video
Chhorii follows a pregnant woman who relocates to a remote village and uncovers disturbing rituals linked to the oppression of women. The film slowly builds fear through atmosphere while addressing serious social issues, making it one of the strongest recent horror releases.
Phobia (2016)
Streaming on Amazon Prime Video
This psychological thriller focuses on a woman suffering from agoraphobia after a traumatic incident. Confined to her apartment, she begins seeing terrifying visions that blur reality. Instead of supernatural elements, the film creates fear through mental stress and isolation.
Kaun? (1999)
Streaming on Disney+ Hotstar
Set almost entirely inside a house on a stormy night, Kaun? follows a woman whose encounter with a stranger turns unsettling. With minimal characters and no background music, the film relies on pure suspense and strong performances.
Darna Mana Hai (2003)
Streaming on Netflix
This anthology film features a group of strangers stranded in a forest who begin sharing scary stories. Each segment presents a different horror style, keeping the narrative engaging and varied.
Roohi (2021)
Streaming on Netflix
Roohi tells the story of a ghost that kidnaps brides after marriage. Two men attempt to save a woman possessed by the spirit, leading to humorous and spooky situations. The film offers light entertainment with gentle scares.
Bhoot Police (2021)
Streaming on Disney+ Hotstar
The movie follows two brothers who pretend to be ghost hunters. However, when they encounter real supernatural forces, their fake skills fail. The film leans more toward comedy and adventure than serious horror.
Vaastu Shastra (2004)
OTT availability varies
Directed by Ram Gopal Varma, Vaastu Shastra explores supernatural disturbances inside a house affected by negative architectural forces. Although it did not gain wide popularity, it reflects early experimentation in Bollywood horror.
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Pari (2018)
Streaming on Amazon Prime Video
Pari centres on a mysterious woman connected to a dangerous cult. As a man tries to protect her, horrifying truths surface. Rather than using jump scares, the film builds fear through mood, emotion and darkness.
Overall, Bollywood horror-thriller films now offer a wide range of experiences. Whether viewers prefer intense folk horror, psychological thrillers or light-hearted horror-comedies, these movies cater to every taste. Thanks to OTT platforms, audiences can now enjoy gripping horror stories anytime from the comfort of their homes.
khushisikarwar is an award-winning journalist and content creator who thrives on telling stories that matter. As a key contributor to Newsisland, [she] focus on cultural commentary, providing readers with thought-provoking insights.
