Jallikattu (2019, Malayalam)

Loosely based on Kerala village folklore, the film revolves around the chaos unleashed when a buffalo escapes during a festival, reflecting cultural rituals, superstitions, and human-animal folklore

Bramayugam (2024, Malayalam)

The movie Bramayugam draws heavily from Kerala folklore, specifically the legends of the malevolent goblin known as the Chathan, the mythic Yakshi, and the ancient Potti caste. These folk elements are used to explore themes of power, caste, and madness

Magadheera (2009, Telugu)

A reincarnation-themed epic heavily inspired by folklore, telling the story of love and valor spanning 400 years. The film’s mythic narrative, warriors, and mystical elements echo legendary tales

Paheli (2005, Hindi)

Based on a Rajasthani folk tale, the story follows a ghost who falls in love with a woman, assuming her husband’s form. The film explores mystical elements, folklore romance, and supernatural traditions in rural India

Tumbbad (2018, Hindi)

Rooted in Maharashtrian folklore, this horror-fantasy explores the tale of a mythical god of wealth, Hastar. The film intertwines greed, mythology, and folk storytelling traditions in a dark, immersive cinematic world

Mamangam (2019, Malayalam)

Set in the medieval period, this epic explores the folklore-inspired festival Mamangam and the valor of warriors who participated in it. It blends historical events with legendary heroism

Stree (2018, Hindi)

A horror-comedy inspired by urban legends of a female spirit who terrorizes the men of a small town in central India

Baahubali: The Beginning (2015, Telugu)

Inspired by Indian epic storytelling traditions, this magnum opus incorporates elements of folklore, kingdoms, and heroic legends. It narrates the saga of Amarendra Baahubali and his family, with mythical undertones and grand battles reminiscent of folklore epics

Ponniyin Selvan: I (2022, Tamil)

Based on Kalki Krishnamurthy’s novel, which draws from Chola dynasty folklore, royal intrigues, and legends. It brings mythical and historical storytelling together in a rich cinematic adaptation

Kantara (2022, Kannada)

Deeply rooted in the folklore of coastal Karnataka, it explores the Daiva traditions, rituals, and mythical battles between divine spirits and humans

Rudhramadevi (2015, Telugu)

Inspired by historical folklore, it follows the life of the Kakatiya dynasty queen, highlighting myths, warrior traditions, and ancient cultural practices

Bulbbul (2020, Hindi)

Set in 19th-century Bengal, Bulbbul follows the life of a child bride who, after enduring immense trauma, transforms into a supernatural avenger. The film intertwines gothic horror with feminist allegory, using the chudail myth as a metaphor for suppressed female rage and empowerment. The film centers around the chudail, a figure from Indian folklore, and reinterprets her as a symbol of female vengeance and resistance