“Tumbbad,” the haunting 2018 film entrenched in Indian folklore and backed by the talents of creative director Anand Gandhi, has proven to withstand the test of time. Recently, the film enjoyed a robust re-release on September 13, once again captivating audiences with its unique blend of horror and dark cultural tales. Despite this renewed interest, Anand Gandhi’s presence has been notably absent from promotional activities surrounding the re-release, sparking curiosity and speculation among fans and critics alike.
The film’s resurgence comes on the heels of actor-producer Sohum Shah unveiling a potential sequel under the direction of Adesh Prasad last month. This announcement begs the question—why has Anand Gandhi chosen to distance himself from the sequel? When approached for comment, Gandhi, in an understated manner, emphasized that the film itself should remain at the forefront, saying, “I thought I’d let the film take centre stage. After all, it’s the real star here.”
Directed by Rahi Anil Barve, “Tumbbad” dives deep into the rich tapestry of Indian mythology, offering audiences a delectably eerie experience that steers clear from the comedic horror genre that has recently gained traction in Bollywood. At a time when movies such as “Stree 2” and “Munjya” have marked substantial successes in the horror category, one might wonder if Gandhi sees the potential for the genre to become oversaturated and subsequently lose its allure.
Gandhi explains, “Horror, at its core, allows us to process and externalize our collective anxieties. Today’s anxieties focus largely on social injustice, systemic oppression, and disease. Horror films that mirror these prevalent issues thereby offer a reflection that can resonate deeply with viewers. However, when horror is reduced to mere thrills—akin to the fleeting excitement of a theme park ride—the genre tends to lose its depth and fade from memory. This is often the consequence when films attempt to ride the coattails of successful endeavours without contributing enduring narratives. Nevertheless, when filmmakers harness horror to convey meaningful insights and foster profound dialogues with the audience, those creations leave a lasting imprint.”
What, then, contributes to the enduring appeal of “Tumbbad”? Gandhi shares his perspective, stating, “It’s incredibly reassuring to see ‘Tumbbad’ remain relevant and resonate with audiences today. When I create a film, my intention is rooted in responsibility and a desire to provoke thoughtful inquiry.
. I envision the film as only the beginning, sparking a journey for viewers to critically assess their existence and beliefs on a deeper level.”
Gandhi unfolds a vision where movies serve as more than mere entertainment; they become subjects for intellectual engagement, encompassing layers that demand exploration beyond the superficial storytelling. “The ultimate objective is to present ideas—insights about societal power structures, systemic challenges, and existential threats—through a visceral medium that taps into intuitive experiences,” he explains. The approach extends from crafting seductive visual and narrative elements to ensuring they invite viewers into an introspective unraveling of the multilayered themes entrenched within the work.
The overwhelming reception “Tumbbad” continues to receive is, according to Gandhi, not merely for its evocative storytelling or its aesthetic allure, but for the profound impact it leaves on viewers’ consciousness. “Some films have the ability to resonate with audiences on a deeper level—not merely entertaining or moving them, but prompting shifts in their understanding and engagement with the world,” he notes. This lasting effect is what Gandhi finds most gratifying and indicative of the film’s success.
Despite his admiration for expansive narratives, Gandhi remains firm in his decision to sidestep the forthcoming “Tumbbad” sequel. “I’m a huge admirer of sprawling narratives, like the Mahabharata, which is replete with rich themes deserving thorough exploration. However, I never envisioned ‘Tumbbad’ as such a tale. For me, it’s a complete work. My creative journey with ‘Tumbbad’ concluded when I told the story I intended. My role as a creator is to guide audiences to unimagined places, igniting curiosity and inviting them to explore further, just as ‘Tumbbad’ did. It’s essential for me to continue progressing, not recreating what’s already been achieved.”
Anand Gandhi’s rationale for stepping aside from the sequel is clear; his journey with “Tumbbad” has reached its intended destination, leaving behind a standalone masterpiece that continues to enchant audiences with each viewing.
