50 years before 'Stree,' 'Bhoot Bungla' scared and tickled India
In recent years, the horror-comedy genre has gained significant traction in Bollywood, with Maddock Films's Stree franchise leading the charge. However, this innovative blend of fear and humor is not a new phenomenon in Hindi cinema. Over five decades before Stree hit the screens, a film titled Bhoot Bungla had already set the precedent for this unique cinematic fusion. Want to know more about it? Let's dive in!
'Bhoot Bungla': A bold cinematic experiment in the 1960s
Released in 1965, Bhoot Bungla was a daring experiment in a decade when filmmakers were hesitant to deviate from established norms. Directed by Mehmood, the pioneering film boasted a stellar cast, including Mehmood himself, Tanuja, RD Burman, and Harindranath Chattopadhyay. Its unique blend of a serious plot with comedic elements made it an early pioneer of the horror-comedy genre in Hindi cinema.
Storyline: A chilling tale of murder and mystery
Bhoot Bungla revolves around a murder that took place 50 years before the events of the film. The victim's wife and son disappeared from a haunted bungalow located in a jungle outside Mumbai. In the present day, three nephews residing in the same bungalow face peril as two of them die under mysterious circumstances. The film chronicles their quest to unravel the mystery surrounding their haunted abode, keeping audiences on edge with its blend of suspense, horror, and comedy.
'Bhoot Bungla': A trendsetter for future horror-comedies
Despite its age, Bhoot Bungla remains a popular choice among fans of classic Hindi horror. Its successful fusion of comedy and horror paved the way for future films in the genre. While the Stree franchise may be the first cinematic universe in this category, it's important to remember that Bhoot Bungla was the trailblazer who started it all over half a century ago. Meanwhile, Stree 2—released on Thursday—is currently taking the box office by storm with its record-breaking collections.
