Bollywood is venturing into uncharted territory with a bold new project that blends horror, history, and heartbreak. Actor Ahan Shetty has been confirmed to headline India’s first-ever horror film inspired by a real national tragedy. Written by Patrick Graham, the creator behind Ghoul and Betaal, the film promises to redefine genre cinema in India by fusing supernatural storytelling with the emotional weight of historical trauma.
Backed by producers Khyati Madaan and Prashant Gunjalkar under the banner Not Out Entertainment, the film is set to go on floors in early 2026 and will be released theatrically. While the title and full cast are yet to be revealed, the announcement has already sparked intense curiosity and conversation across the industry.
Ahan Shetty’s Genre Leap
Known for his romantic action debut in Tadap and his upcoming role in the war epic Border 2, Ahan Shetty is making a dramatic shift with this horror-thriller. The actor shared his excitement on social media, calling the project unlike anything he’s done before.
This marks a significant pivot in his career trajectory:
- From massy romance to genre-defining horror
- From fictional drama to a narrative rooted in real-life tragedy
- From ensemble casts to leading a story with emotional and psychological depth
Industry insiders view this move as a strategic expansion of Ahan’s acting range, positioning him as a versatile performer in the evolving landscape of Hindi cinema.
The Storytelling Vision Behind The Film
Patrick Graham, known for his work with Blumhouse Television’s Indian slate, brings a unique voice to horror storytelling. His previous works, Ghoul and Betaal, were praised for their atmospheric tension and socio-political undertones. With this new film, Graham aims to push boundaries even further.
The film is described as:
- A theatrical horror experience with mass appeal
- A blend of supernatural elements, romance, and thriller pacing
- A narrative built around a real national tragedy, though the specific event remains undisclosed
This approach marks a departure from typical horror tropes, offering audiences a layered and emotionally resonant experience.
Producers With A Mission
Khyati Madaan, who launched Not Out Entertainment earlier this year, brings over a decade of experience from Red Chillies Entertainment, Disney India, and Maddock Films. Her vision is to revive theatrical Hindi cinema through genre-driven storytelling.
Prashant Gunjalkar, co-producing the film, is known for his work in talent management and brand collaborations. Together, they aim to deliver a cinematic experience that is both commercially viable and artistically bold.
Their production slate also includes:
- Abhootpurva, a romantic horror comedy
- A slice-of-life drama directed by Habib Faisal, known for Do Dooni Chaar and Ishaqzaade
Audience Expectations And Industry Buzz
The announcement has generated significant buzz, not just for its genre innovation but also for its emotional premise. Fans and critics alike are intrigued by the idea of horror rooted in real events—a concept rarely explored in Indian cinema.
Key talking points include:
- The potential for horror to serve as a lens for collective memory and healing
- The challenge of balancing entertainment with sensitivity to historical trauma
- The opportunity to elevate genre cinema in India beyond jump scares and haunted mansions
Ahan’s father, actor Suniel Shetty, also expressed pride and support for his son’s bold choice, adding a personal layer to the public excitement.
Conclusion: A New Era For Hindi Horror
India’s cinematic landscape is evolving, and this upcoming horror film marks a pivotal moment. By intertwining real tragedy with genre storytelling, the project promises to offer audiences something truly original—an experience that is chilling, cathartic, and culturally significant.
As production gears up and more details emerge, all eyes will be on Ahan Shetty and the team behind this ambitious venture. If executed well, it could open doors for a new wave of horror films that dare to confront history while thrilling the senses.
Sources: Bollywood Hungama, The Hans India, MSN India, Filmfare, Livemint, Mashable India
