Thamma vs Lokah: Ayushmann Khurrana promises a completely different supernatural experience

Ayushmann Khurrana is set to make his long-awaited debut in the Maddock Films’ horror-comedy universe with Thamma, a supernatural fantasy directed by Aditya Sarpotdar and produced by Dinesh Vijan and Amar Kaushik. 

The film, releasing on October 21, 2025, right in the middle of Diwali week, marks a bold new chapter in Ayushmann’s career and the Maddock franchise.

Also Read: Thamma trailer out: Ayushmann Khurrana and Rashmika Mandanna step into a dark vampire love story, watch

Ayushmann Khurrana as the ‘Sarvasrisht Betal’

Known for his unconventional and layered performances in Andhadhun and Article 15, Ayushmann is now venturing into a full-fledged fantasy role for the first time. He plays a Betal, a vampiric spirit from Indian folklore.

“The comedy and emotion come from how an ordinary guy deals with supernatural powers,” Ayushmann shared. “It’s less horror and more comedy, romance, and action — the first romantic film of the Maddock horror-comedy universe.”

He revealed that Thamma means “the supreme one” or “the Sarvasrisht Betal,” and the story explores his character’s emotional depth within a fantastical world. 

The actor also shared that the project had been in the works for over four years, beginning as a one-liner during the pandemic before evolving into a fully developed script.

A Universe That Redefines Indian Horror-Comedy

Thamma expands the Maddock Films’ horror-comedy universe that began with Stree and continued with Bhediya, Stree 2, and Munjya. 

This interconnected world, rich in folklore and humor, has become one of Hindi cinema’s most successful experimental franchises. 

According to Ayushmann, Thamma serves as a “Genesis film”, carrying forward the common mythic thread while taking it into new, unexplored territory.

Addressing Comparisons with Lokah Chapter 1 – Chandra

With the massive success of the Malayalam hit Lokah Chapter 1 – Chandra, comparisons between the two vampire-themed films have been inevitable. 

However, Ayushmann clarified that Thamma is a “massier” experience. “Though I enjoyed Lokah, ours is a more pan-Indian film that speaks directly to Hindi-speaking audiences. There’s hardly any similarity,” he said in an interview with Galatta Plus.

Also Read: Malaika Arora sets the dance floor on fire in Thamma’s new song ‘Poison Baby’

A Diwali Treat for Fans

With co-stars Rashmika Mandanna and Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Thamma promises to deliver a unique blend of folklore, fantasy, and fun, making it one of Diwali 2025’s most exciting releases.