Indian horror films have always been intriguing for the audiences. In fact it is one of the most interesting genres of Indian commercial cinema. But simultaneously it is also true that this particular genre is the least explored one. Although filmmakers like Ram Gopal Varma, Mahesh Bhatt and Priyadarshan have dealt with Indian horror films yet much remains to be done.

It would be interesting to point out here that it was Bimal Roy`s Madhumati that for the first time dealt with avenging spirits. The film was a runaway hit. After that several filmmakers have explored the horror genre. Mahal, Who Kaun Thi, Bees Saal Baad, Gumnaam and others attempted to rouse the element of fear. To some extent they have been successful too. Later films like Noorie were based roughly on the storyline of Madhumati.

However Indian horror films truly evolved as a genre in the hands of Ram Gopal Varma. One of his earliest films Raat is still credited as India`s best horror flicks. This ace director then went onto make several Indian horror films, such as, Kaun, Darna Mana Hain, Bhoot, Darna Zaroori Hain, Darling, Vastu Shashtra, Phoonk and others.

Apart from Hindi movies south Indian film industry has also delivered some of the best known Indian horror films. Bhargavi Nilayam, Manichitrathazhu, Chandramukhi, Eraa and several others are popular with the audiences.

Apart from these several other Indian horror films have hit the screens from time to time. Mahesh Bhatt and his production house have also delivered some of the popular Indian horror films. Raaz and Saaya were well appreciated by the audiences. Other horror films in India comprise of Naina, Krishna Cottage, Gauri, Kucch To Hai, 1920, Hum Kaun Hain, Bhool Bhulaiya, etc.