Tumbbad (2018) Movie: A Cinematic Masterpiece from India

Tumbbad is widely recognized as one of India’s most profound cinematic achievements. Released in 2018, it combines elements of folklore, horror, mythology, and psychological thriller to tell a unique story that transcends traditional genres. Directed by Rahi Anil Barve and Anand Gandhi, and produced by Sohum Shah, the film stands as a testament to innovative storytelling in Indian cinema.

Plot Overview and Core Themes

Tumbbad centers on the protagonist, Vinayak Rao, and his unrelenting greed for hidden treasure in the cursed village of Tumbbad. The story unfolds over decades, with Vinayak’s journey symbolizing the destructive power of greed. The cursed treasure belongs to Hastar, a forgotten god from Indian mythology who represents insatiable hunger and greed. The pursuit of wealth at the expense of one’s morality becomes the overarching theme of the film.

The film’s director, Rahi Anil Barve, intended Tumbbad to explore the theme of greed and its consequences. In the podcast interview, the creators discuss how the film emphasizes that greed is a central flaw in human nature, depicted through Vinayak’s descent into moral corruption. From Vinayak’s grandmother to his son, greed manifests in different ways, but its corrosive impact remains the same. This moral lesson resonates throughout the story: “Lalch buri bala hai”.

Unique Filmmaking Approach

The production of Tumbbad was challenging yet revolutionary in Indian cinema. As Sohum Shah explained, the film’s atmospheric realism is one of its defining qualities. Shot extensively in natural rain, with intricate visual effects (VFX) done by international teams, the film creates an immersive experience. The village of Tumbbad, always drenched in rain and dark clouds, gives the audience a visceral sense of dread. Every element in the frame, from the misty landscapes to the ancient houses, was crafted to evoke a sense of timelessness.

The filmmakers took extreme care in designing the sets, props, and costumes to match the 1920s period when the story takes place. The meticulous attention to detail extended to the choice of vehicles, furniture, and even small objects like locks and keys. As Shah recalls, these decisions gave the film its authenticity​.

Another striking aspect is the use of prosthetics. Hastar, the cursed god, was originally conceived with full prosthetics, and while this concept did not work out in the final version, the process evolved with a seamless blend of prosthetics and VFX. The production team even experimented with different designs for characters like the grandmother, initially conceived as a 500-kg creature. Such innovations demonstrated the creative risks the filmmakers took.

The Legacy of Tumbbad

Although Tumbbad faced challenges upon its initial release—competing with other big films like Andhadhun—it has since garnered cult status, particularly through streaming platforms. The film resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike due to its unique genre blend and philosophical depth. In the podcast, Sohum Shah discusses the possibility of a sequel, expressing that Tumbbad 2 would continue exploring greed, though perhaps with new thematic elements.

Fans have frequently drawn comparisons between Tumbbad and other dark, atmospheric films, such as Kantara, but both stand as unique pieces in Indian cinema. Despite sharing similar mythical underpinnings, the films diverge significantly in tone and narrative.

Conclusion

Tumbbad represents a watershed moment for Indian cinema, demonstrating that innovative storytelling, combined with atmospheric realism and mythology, can captivate audiences and critics alike. The film’s portrayal of human greed is timeless, and its craft continues to inspire discussions about the future of Indian filmmaking. With talk of sequels and even a potential trilogy, Tumbbad has carved out its place as one of the greatest cinematic works in modern Indian film history.