‘Tumbbad’, ‘Bulbbul’, ‘Munjya’: Step into a world of ancient beliefs and dark legends with these folklore-based movies

‘Bulbbul’ available on Netflix is a gothic supernatural drama set in 1880s Bengal, tracing the journey of a child bride who grows into a mysterious woman ruling her household. As men in the village die under strange circumstances, the film blends folklore, trauma, patriarchy, and myth, creating a visually poetic yet unsettling tale of power and vengeance.

‘Hanu-Man’ streaming on JioCinema and ZEE5 follows Hanumanthu, a petty thief from Anjanadri who gains extraordinary powers after finding a mystical gem. As he embraces his abilities, he rises as a protector against powerful enemies. The film brings mythology into a modern superhero format, offering action, emotion, and a rooted cultural charm.

‘Jallikattu’ on Amazon Prime Video is a Malayalam thriller in which a village descends into chaos after a butcher’s buffalo escapes. Directed by Lijo Jose Pellissery, the film explores primal human instincts as the search spirals out of control. Its folklore-inspired energy, raw tension, and crowd-driven narrative create a gripping, visually intense cinematic experience.

‘Munjya’ available on JioCinema is a horror-comedy where a young man accidentally unleashes a mischievous spirit connected to his family’s past. Determined to fulfil its strange desire for marriage, the spirit causes chaos in his life. With humour, scares, and folklore-inspired elements, the film follows his attempt to protect himself and the woman he loves.

Based on the Naale Baa legend, ‘Stree’ available on Amazon Prime Video blends folklore, humour, and horror in the town of Chanderi, where a spirit abducts men during festivals. As fear spreads, Vicky and his friends try to uncover the truth behind the haunting. The film cleverly mixes social themes, suspense, and comedy, making it refreshingly unique.

Set in 20th-century Maharashtra, ‘Tumbbad’ streaming on Amazon Prime Video is a dark folk-fantasy horror centred on a family obsessed with uncovering a cursed treasure linked to the demon god Hastar. With haunting visuals, atmospheric tension, and a gripping narrative, it explores greed, mythology, and the horrifying consequences of disturbing ancient, forbidden secrets.