In a remarkable turn of events that underscores the enduring power of storytelling, the 2018 horror film Tumbbad has successfully captivated audiences once again with its re-release on September 13. This film, known for its deeply rooted narrative in Indian folklore, initially launched to critical acclaim and has managed to retain its charm, proving that truly compelling stories can transcend time. Surprisingly, absent from the renewed buzz around Tumbbad is its creative director, Anand Gandhi, who has notably distanced himself from the sequel’s promotion. Actor-producer Sohum Shah, who was central to the original movie, has taken the first steps to bring a sequel to fruition under the guidance of director Adesh Prasad.
When questioned about his noticeable absence and his decision to detach from the sequel, Anand Gandhi explained his rationale: “I thought I’d let the film take center stage. After all, it’s the real star here.” Directed by Rahi Anil Barve, Tumbbad initially captivated audiences by offering a unique horror experience based on Indian legends, deploying a narrative style that had not been fully explored in Indian cinema prior to the rise of horror comedies. At a time when the horror genre is witnessing a resurgence—evidenced by the success of films like Stree 2 and Munjya—the question arises whether this popularity could exhaust the genre’s appeal.
Gandhi weighs in on this, emphasizing that horror as a genre will always have a place in storytelling. “At its core, horror allows us to process and externalize our collective anxieties,” he explains. “Today’s anxieties revolve around social injustice, systemic oppression, and disease. When horror movies are a reflection of these shared experiences, they effectively resonate with audiences, offering a form of cautionary tale about the paths we should avoid. However, when horror is treated as merely a thrill-ride, its impact diminishes the moment the experience ends. True horror films elevate this narrative by engaging deeply with the audience, offering insights that linger long after the credits roll. So, regardless of whether horror is used for surface thrills or substantial storytelling, the genre itself is timeless.
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Reflecting on Tumbbad’s enduring impact, Gandhi remarks, “It’s incredibly reassuring to see Tumbbad remain relevant. When creating a film, there’s a sense of responsibility and intention. My aim is to provoke meaningful inquiry through multi-layered storytelling. At its surface, the film captivates with plot, design, and atmosphere, yet beneath these elements are deeper layers of meaning. This layered approach invites the audience on a journey beyond the visual, encouraging them to explore ideas that challenge societal power dynamics and existential concepts. The fact that Tumbbad has managed to resonate on such a deep level is not just thrilling but meaningful to me as a filmmaker.”
Despite acknowledging horror’s rich potential, Gandhi remains firm in his decision to step away from the sequel, attributing it to a sense of narrative completeness. “I admire complex narratives like the Mahabharata, which requires multiple explorations to fully uncover its insights. However, I don’t see Tumbbad as a sprawling story. For me, it’s a complete work; I’ve already said everything I intended to within that framework,” he states. Gandhi feels his calling as a director is to take audiences to uncharted territories. Reflecting on the success of the original, he believes his role is to push boundaries creatively rather than reiterate past triumphs.
As much as Tumbbad’s re-release signifies its lasting impact, it also highlights a crucial decision point in the artistic journey of its creative director, Anand Gandhi. By stepping aside, Gandhi permits the original work to shine on its own terms, while staying true to his vision—the exploration of bold, new creative landscapes. This bold choice by Gandhi ensures that Tumbbad remains not just a story within a horror narrative, but a cultural touchstone that stimulates reflection and dialogue long into the future.
