The Hindi cinematic landscape witnessed the arrival of a thrilling new entry with the release of ‘Shaitaan’ on March 8th. Anchored by the star power of R Madhavan, Ajay Devgn, and Jyotika, the horror feature has already begun to send chills down the spines of audiences across the nation. The film has made a remarkable impression at the box office, raking in a substantial Rs 14.50 crore on its debut day, according to reports from industry tracker Sacnilk. With the weekend in sight, these numbers are predicted to climb even higher.
‘Shaitaan’ is not just a conventional horror flick; it is a cinematic rendition steeped in the cultural nuances of Indian Black Magic, marking it as a standout in the genre. The narrative follows the unsettling misadventures of Kabir and his family, who encounter a malevolent force after inviting a seemingly friendly yet enigmatic stranger, portrayed by Madhavan, into their home during a weekend getaway. The plot artfully intertwines suspense and supernatural elements, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats as the characters confront the darkest of fears.
The movie draws inspiration from its Gujarati predecessor ‘Vash,’ known for its acclaimed storytelling. ‘Shaitaan’ borrows the core essence of ‘Vash’ and translates it effectively into Hindi, augmenting it with a strong cast and a fresh perspective that resonates with a broader audience.
A movie’s inception can often be a story within itself, and ‘Shaitaan’ is no exception. Director Vikas Bahl has shared insights into his personal journey with the film. Despite not being an aficionado of the horror genre, the storyline of ‘Shaitaan’ captivated him. Bahl embraced the challenge of crafting a film that ventured into uncharted territory for him. In his words, the experience of creating ‘Shaitaan’ has been as rewarding as it was challenging, ultimately culminating in a film that is as thought-provoking as it is terrifying.
Jyotika, too, reflected on her role, revealing the motherly instincts evoked in her through her character. While hesitant to divulge the pivotal scenes, she acknowledged the deep connection between her on-screen role and her off-screen experience as a mother. The film serves as a constant reminder of the weighty responsibility parents bear in the journey of raising and protecting their children—particularly during the tumultuous teenage years.
‘Shaitaan’ is not merely a dalliance in the macabre for its creators. It is presented with the backing of established industry names such as Jio Studios, Devgn Films, and Panorama Studios. The production team boasts the joint efforts of Ajay Devgn, Jyoti Deshpande, Kumar Mangat Pathak, and Abhishek Pathak, who have pooled their resources to bring this gripping tale to the big screen.
The film was greeted with enthusiasm by the industry, with a special screening in Mumbai that drew members of the film fraternity the night before the public release. Ajay Devgn stepped out to the screening, signaling his support by attending with his son Yug.
As ‘Shaitaan’ continues to draw viewers to theaters, it exemplifies the potent appeal of a well-told horror story rooted in cultural lore, underscored by a fascinating exploration of moral complexities. The film offers an experience that extends beyond jumpscares, delving into the psychological terrains of fear and the human response to otherworldly threats. With its impressive first-day earnings, ‘Shaitaan’ appears destined to haunt box office charts and audience memories alike. (With inputs from ANI)
