Can Ayushmann-Rashmika's Thama redefine vampire tales for Indian audiences?
Cultural disconnect and genre prejudiceIndian folklore about spirits such as Chudail, Daayan, Pret, Yakshini, Pishach and Naagin are rooted in local traditions, while vampires and werewolves are perceived as Western imports. Unlike 'Naagin' (1976) or 'Stree' (2018), vampires do not evoke generational fear or nostalgia linked to Indian folklore. Horror comedies like 'Stree 2' and 'Munjya' feel ours, while 'Bhediya' is seen as American fiction.In the present times, Pan India successes like 'Kantara' and 'Mahavatar Narsimha' have gained audience acceptance due to their depiction of cultural heritage. Any story that appears to be wannabe Hollywood is rejected due to the disconnect. If 'Thama' in any way forms the perception of 'Twilight' (2008) spin-off, it may be accused of yet another Western imitation.Scepticism towards experimental themesIndian audiences are cautious about experimental genres when it comes to mainstream cinema. A horror-comedy works when it feels rooted and relatable, but the North East Indian backdrop of 'Bhediya' blended with a Western-style monster, felt too niche for many. Though it had a genuine theme of nature conservation and climate change, viewers felt the film lacked an 'Indian soul'. If 'Thama' attempts another experimental gamble with its unconventional storytelling, an over emphasis on vampire elements might alienate Indian audiences.Television conditioning'The Vampire Diaries' (2009-2017) or 'Twilight' worked on TV/OTT because of romance and youth appeal, not the supernatural element. The Indian audiences consumed the vampires and werewolves for the melodramatic storytelling and thrills rather than internalising American folklore.Cultural anchoring'Thama' is set across two time periods and reportedly ties its vampire lore to the ancient Vijayanagar Empire. If the film succeeds in executing a story similar to the Chanderi folklore of 'Stree 2' and the Konkan roots of 'Munjya', the audiences may resonate with it. Ayushmann's character, Alok, is a historian tracing the origin of vampires, which could appeal to the same viewers who turned Sohum Shah's 'Tumbbad' into a cult classic.If director Aditya Sarpotdar strikes a fine balance between romance, folklore, musical elements, humour, and horror, 'Thama' could be a game-changer.advertisementWatch the teaser here: Blending romance with a gothic taleIndian audiences embraced 'The Vampire Diaries' and 'Pyaar Kii Ye Ek Kahaani' (2010-2011) for their romance and melodrama. 'Thama' is introduced to viewers as a 'love story' soaked in blood, which is relatable to the youth. Apart from an Indianised vampire, movie-goers are always accepting of stories about forbidden love. The 'Thama' teaser hints at a relationship that spans 100 years and is about longing and desire and forms the perfect Indian musical romance.Genre shift in Indian cinemaThe Indian audiences turning up for films like 'Karthikeya 2' (2022), 'Hanuman' (2024) and 'Mahavatar Narsimha' (2025), is an indication of a huge leap in film viewing preferences. Not only are South Indian audiences supporting culturally-rooted content, but the Hindi heartland is also embracing these narratives. This could be an opportunity for the Hindi film industry to tap into the evolution of film viewership in India. 'Thama', which reportedly draws its title and concept from the legendary 'Mahabharata' warrior Ashwatthama, has a strong foundation as a traditional gothic love story. This blend of myth and modernity could give the film the edge it needs.advertisementStar power with rangeAyushmann, known for his versatility, is one of the strongest USPs of 'Thama'. He is known for striking a fine balance between art and commerce with films like 'Badhaai Ho' (2018), 'Andhadhun' (2018) and 'Dream Girl' (2019). Rashmika, who is being praised for her glamorous yet fierce look as a vampire, is not just a bankable star but is also known for her screen presence.For decades, Bollywood has excelled at retelling its own myths but faltered when borrowing Western legends. Vampires, in particular, never quite found their fangs in India because they felt alien to Indian soil. 'Thama', however, carries a different pulse. With Ayushmann and Rashmika lending gravitas, the film doesn't look like a borrowed fantasy—it looks like an evolution of Indian cinema into uncharted territory.If 'Stree' gave Indians folklore horror, 'Thama' could well give us our first truly gothic romance. The challenge is real, but this time, the bite might just be deep enough to leave a mark.'Thama' is scheduled to release in Diwali 2025.- Ends
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