The Bollywood horror genre has evolved considerably, offering a range of films from pure chills to horror-comedies. With stories rooted in folklore, psychological thrillers, and unique supernatural plots, Bollywood’s horror films have a variety of styles that make them perfect for streaming.
For fans of spooks and scares, here are the top 17 Bollywood horror films available on OTT platforms.
1. Tumbbad (2018)
Platform: Amazon Prime Video
A visually stunning exploration of greed and mythology, Tumbbad is a masterpiece in horror cinema. It follows the tale of a man on a dangerous quest for treasure guarded by a demonic entity. Atmospheric and beautifully eerie, Tumbbad is hauntingly memorable.
2. Stree (2018)
Platform: Netflix
Based on the Indian folklore of a female spirit who abducts men, Stree combines horror with comedy seamlessly. With Rajkummar Rao and Shraddha Kapoor leading, this film is a fresh, engaging story that balances fear with laughter, making it one of the best horror-comedy films of Bollywood.
3. Bhool Bhulaiyaa (2007)
Platform: Disney+ Hotstar
This psychological horror-comedy stars Akshay Kumar as a psychiatrist who uncovers a ghostly mystery in a palace. With equal parts comedy and horror, Bhool Bhulaiyaa is known for its iconic performances and timeless storyline.
4. Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 (2022)
Platform: Netflix
A spiritual sequel to the original, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2 stars Kartik Aaryan and Kiara Advani. This film keeps the comedy-horror balance, taking viewers back into the mysterious world of Manjulika, providing fresh horror with a new cast.
5. Roohi (2021)
Platform: Netflix
Following the success of Stree, Roohi is a horror-comedy that stars Janhvi Kapoor, Rajkummar Rao and Varun Sharma. A quirky and amusing tale of possession and exorcism, it delivers on entertainment.
6. Pari (2018)
Platform: Amazon Prime Video
Anushka Sharma stars in this dark horror film about a woman entangled in a supernatural conspiracy. With elements of folklore and horror, Pari stands out for its bold, unconventional approach to the genre.
7. Bulbbul (2020)
Platform: Netflix
This beautifully shot horror film tells the story of a woman transformed by tragedy and revenge. Set in the 19th century Bengal, Bulbbul is visually stunning and carries a haunting feminist undercurrent that makes it a must watch.
8. Shaitaan (2024)
Platform: Netflix
The movie is about a family and the problems which they faced after a stranger casts black magic over the daughter. Shaitaan is a treat for fans of R Madhavan as he mesmerizes with his acting.
9. Stree 2 (2024)
Platform: Amazon Prime Video
In this sequel to Stree, the female spirit has left the town and now a headless demon (Sarkata) terrorises the small town of Chanderi. The sequel has been a big hit at the box-office and it is also an engaging mix of horror and humour.
10. Raaz (2002)
Platform: Amazon Prime Video
A defining horror film in Bollywood, Raaz is a classic ghost story of love, betrayal and revenge. With haunting music and chilling scenes, it remains one of the most popular horror films from the early 2000s.
11. 1920 (2008)
Platform: Amazon Prime Video
Set in pre-independence India, 1920 tells the story of a couple moving into a haunted mansion. Known for its traditional horror elements and strong performances, this Vikram Bhatt film is a Bollywood horror staple.
12. 13B: Fear Has a New Address (2009)
Platform: Disney+ Hotstar
This psychological horror is centered on a family that experiences supernatural occurrences after moving to a new apartment. The haunting narrative involves a cursed TV show, creating a unique horror experience.
13. Ek Thi Daayan (2013)
Platform: Netflix
With an engaging plot involving witches and dark forces, Ek Thi Daayan stars Emraan Hashmi in a unique tale that merges fantasy with horror. Its twists and suspense make it an immersive watch.
14. Kaun? (1999)
Platform: Disney+ Hotstar
This thriller, directed by Ram Gopal Varma, is a nerve-wracking story of a woman alone at home who encounters suspicious strangers. Its minimalist approach and suspenseful atmosphere make it a timeless horror classic.
15. Phobia (2016)
Platform: Amazon Prime Video
This psychological horror-thriller stars Radhika Apte as a woman suffering from severe agoraphobia. The film’s claustrophobic setting and psychological depth make it one of the best modern horror Bollywood films.
16. Darna Mana Hai (2003)
Platform: Netflix
An anthology horror film with six different spine-chilling stories, Darna Mana Hai combines supernatural elements with psychological thrills. Its unique format and variety make it a great pick for horror fans.
17. Creature 3D (2014)
Platform: Amazon Prime Video
Attempting a creature-feature in Bollywood, this film stars Bipasha Basu battling a terrifying monster in a forest hotel. Though heavy on CGI, it’s entertaining for fans of thriller-horror hybrids.
From classic ghost stories to horror-comedies and psychological thrillers, these 17 Bollywood horror films offer something for everyone. Enjoy your fright night!
