Bollywood Horrors: Religion, Violence and Cinematic Fears in India

Bollywood Horrors explores the religious aspects of horror imagery, real-life horror representations, and cinematic fears in Hindi films, featuring posters, song booklets, tantric magicians, goddess Durga, epic mythology, and Hollywood thrillers.

Format: Hardback
Length: 264 pages
Publication date: 12 November 2020
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Bollywood Horrors is a comprehensive exploration that delves into the profound religious undertones found in horror imagery, the portrayal of real-life horror in movies, and the ways in which Hindi films have projected cinematic fears onto the big screen. Part one, titled "Material Cultures and Prehistories of Horror in South Asia," takes a closer look at horror movie posters and song booklets, shedding light on the surprising influence of religion in the importation of Gothic tropes into Indian films. Through the captivating story of Sir Devendra Prasad Varma, this section reveals how religion played a pivotal role in shaping the narrative and visual aesthetics of Indian horror movies.

Part two, titled "Cinematic Horror, Iconography, and Aesthetics," delves into the stereotype of the tantric magician prevalent in Indian literature, dating back to the medieval period. It examines cinematic representations of the mythological tale of the fearsome goddess Durga's slaying of the Buffalo Demon, as well as the influence of epic mythology and Hollywood thrillers on the 2002 film Raaz. This section explores how these cultural influences shaped the portrayal of horror and suspense in Indian cinema.

The final part, titled "Cultural Horror," takes a deeper dive into the various elements of horror found in Indian cinema. It examines the portrayal of human trafficking, the shifting gender roles, the rape-revenge cycle, and communal violence. Through these critical examinations, Bollywood Horrors sheds light on the societal and cultural issues that are often depicted in horror films, providing a deeper understanding of the complex tapestry of Indian society.

In addition to its insightful analysis, this book also features a wealth of stunning images, with color illustrations in the hardback edition and black-and-white photographs in the paperback version. These visual elements enhance the reader's experience and add to the overall impact of the text.

Overall, Bollywood Horrors is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the intersection of religion, horror, and cinema in India. It offers a comprehensive and thought-provoking examination of the genre, providing valuable insights into the cultural and societal dynamics that shape the horror films of Bollywood.

Weight: 594g
Dimension: 163 x 242 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350143159