From Haunted 3D Ghost Of The Past To Bhoot Bangla: Four Horror Films Releasing In 2026

From huge hits like ‘Purana Mandir’, which redefined the classic haunted mansion horror trope, to the ‘Stree’ franchise, which perfectly blended the genre with comedy, and many other films that proved the mettle of the genre, Indian cinema has witnessed some of the best horror movies in the past. In earlier years, with its limitations in using extensive graphics and visual effects, it relied more on narrative strength and situational build-up to create horror. However, the scenario has now changed, and Indian films have the technological and budgetary support for experimentation, resulting in more visually appealing films within the genre.

In 2026, too, some horror movies have already created strong pre-release hype as standout titles to watch out for during the year.

Haunted 3D: Ghost of the Past

After the success of the 2011 hit ‘Haunted - 3D’, director Vikram Bhatt and producer Anand Pandit reunite for ‘Haunted 3D: Ghosts of the Past’. Promising a blend of advanced 3D technology, striking visual effects, and engaging storytelling, the film is expected to offer a fresh take on paranormal activity by exploring the intersection of the past and the present. Written by Mahesh Bhatt, Suhrita Das and Shubham Dhiman, the film stars Mahaakshay Chakraborty, Chetna Pandey, and Praneet Bhatt in key roles. The trailer has already caught viewers’ attention, offering a peek into the film’s eerie mood, visual scale and suspense-driven narrative that hints at the unexpected events shaping the story. It is produced by Anand Pandit, along with Rakesh Juneja and Shweta Ambari Bhatt, and co-produced by Roopa Pandit, Krishna Bhatt Sarda, Dilip Soni Jaiswal, Rahul V. Dubey, and Sanjay Singh.

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Bhoot Bangla

Actor Akshay Kumar and director Priyadarshan are joining hands again after a long gap of 14 years with ‘Bhoot Bangla’. Also starring Tabu, Paresh Rawal, Rajpal Yadav, Wamiqa Gabbi and Jisshu Sengupta, the film is expected to be set around a mysterious and haunted mansion. With hints of slapstick comedy, a trademark of Priyadarshan’s films, combined with horror, fans are already buzzing about its release. ‘Bhoot Bangla’ is produced by Akshay Kumar, Shobha Kapoor and Ekta Kapoor under Balaji Motion Pictures and Cape of Good Films, with Faara Sheikh and Vedant Baali credited as co-producers. It is set to hit theatres on 15 May 2026.

Vvan: Force of the Forest

The release-day announcement poster of ‘Vvan: Force of the Forest’, featuring a pair of fiery red eyes staring from the background of a forest with a hidden temple, exudes a sense of dark mystery. The AI-generated teaser shows actress Tamannaah Bhatia moving swiftly through a dark forest with a lamp, highlighting an immersive, spooky backdrop. The film’s story revolves around ancient folklore, hidden temples, and mysteries that until now existed only in legends. It is said to be inspired by Indian tales, with a terrifying twist. Directed by Deepak Mishra and Arunabh Kumar, and produced by Balaji Motion Pictures and The Viral Fever (TVF), the film stars Siddharth Malhotra and Tamannaah Bhatia in lead roles. It is expected to hit theatres in May 2026.

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Shakti Shalini

When ‘Saiyaara’ actor Aneet Padda was announced as the lead for Maddock Films’ horror comedy ‘Shakti Shalini’, the news was well-received by movie buffs. Much of the excitement came from the popularity of the Maddock Films Horror Comedy Universe (MHCU), which has delivered crowd favourites such as ‘Stree’, ‘Bhediya’, and ‘Roohi’. There is also a genuine curiosity around how the universe will expand with a fresh face like Aneet, who is expected to bring a new screen presence to the franchise. Aditya Sarpotdar is currently in the race to be the director, with Ajitpal Singh’s name also in contention. While plot details remain under wraps, the film is expected to retain the MHCU’s familiar mix of horror, comedy, and supernatural elements. Produced by Dinesh Vijan under the Maddock Films banner, ‘Shakti Shalini’ is likely to hit screens towards the end of 2026.

Image Credit:IMDb

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