Rating: 4/5
Tumbbad is a film that, though overlooked upon its initial release, has now gained the recognition it truly deserves. It’s like watching a masterpiece of literature unfold on screen, blending elements of terror, suspense, and thriller in an enthralling mix. Directed by Rahi Anil Barve, the film leaves a lasting impact with its stellar execution and imaginative storytelling. This eerie yet captivating movie earns a solid 4/5 rating.
Plot:
Set in the 1920s, Tumbbad spans across three generations of a family entangled with the myth of Hastar, the firstborn of the Goddess of Prosperity. According to legend, Hastar must never be worshipped, for doing so brings disastrous consequences.
Hastar is both a curse and a source of wealth. With the ability to bestow gold coins, he represents the unquenchable greed that drives humanity. His tale begins when the Goddess of Prosperity gave birth to him, followed by 16 crore other gods and goddesses. Hastar, being the eldest and favored, was also the most greedy.
When offered a choice between gold and food by the goddess, Hastar selfishly chose the gold but tried to seize control of the food as well. This act enraged his celestial siblings, who attacked him. The Goddess of Prosperity intervened, saving him on the condition that he would neither be mentioned in sacred texts nor worshipped. His existence, forever cursed, represents humanity’s unchecked desire for wealth.
Review:
Tumbbad is a rare kind of horror that lingers in your mind long after the credits roll. Its gripping atmosphere of dread and anticipation keeps viewers on the edge, particularly those who enjoy horror that is more psychological and unpredictable. The film’s unsettling mood combined with a suspenseful plot weaves a haunting experience.
The story is set in the real-life village of Tumbbad, Maharashtra, where Vinayak Rao (played by Sohum Shah) grows up. After enduring a personal tragedy, Vinayak’s life is forever changed, and he becomes fixated on the legend of Hastar, the mythical creature born from a goddess who has buried his treasure beneath the local Zamindar’s estate.
Vinayak’s mother, who works as a caretaker for the Zamindar’s ailing wife, known as Dadi (grandmother), warns him of the curse that has befallen her. This ominous tale of greed, legacy, and forbidden power is masterfully told, with Adesh Prasad, Mitesh Shah, Rahi Anil Barve, and Anand Gandhi delivering a well-crafted and richly layered narrative.
Tumbbad is a deeply atmospheric film that plays on primal fears and offers a thought-provoking commentary on human greed, making it a must-watch for fans of horror and mythology alike.
