Take time out to see these Indian films inspired by folk culture

Movies based on or related to folk tales and culture have immense power to win over audiences, not only in India but also worldwide. The recently released Kantara is a good case in point. Masterpieces like ‘Tumbbad’ which bombed at the box office have now started getting recognition because of their plot. Take time out this weekend to catch up on this unusual lot.

1. Kantara - In theatres now, but will be available on Amazon Prime
The movie deals with the critical issue of land politics and man versus forest through folklore and beliefs about the Daivas or demigods. Kantara centres on the Kambala champion Shiva, who is at odds with a forest officer named Murali. The plot revolves around human versus nature.

2. Tumbbad (Amazon Prime)

Tumbbad is based on a folklore from Maharashtra that tells the story of a family who builds a temple for Hastar, a devil god who should never be worshipped. If you haven't seen this masterpiece, we highly recommend it! 

3. Stree (Disney+ Hotstar, Netflix)
This movie takes inspiration from the legend of Nale Ba, a witch who abducts men at night and leaves them only with their clothes. Starring Rajkummar Rao, Shraddha Kapoor, Pankaj Tripathi, Aparshakti Khurana and Abhishek Banerjee, 'Stree' is one of the best horror films that you just cant pass up. Watch it at night for maximum fun!

4. Vikram Vedha (Disney+ Hotstar, ZEE5)
This one has been inspired by the Indian folktale Baital Pachisi, and its original version starred R Madhavan and Vijay Sethupathy in the lead roles. Recently, a Hindi remake starring Hrithik Roshan and Saif Ali Khan has been released.

5. Paheli (Netflix)
Shah Rukh Khan and Rani Mukherji played key roles in Paheli directed by Amol Palekar. The film is based on a folktale from Rajasthan about a ghost who falls in love with a woman and disguises himself as her husband. 

6. Bulbbul (Netflix)
Many people were intrigued by this spooky thriller featuring Tripti Dimri, which was inspired by Bengali tales of female ghosts and Kali stories. The film is written and directed by Anvita Dutt and released in 2020.

So when are you watching these must-watch movies based on folk tales and culture?