📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Shadan Group of Institutions
Entertainment
Director Syed Shadan Says Hindi Cinema Feels Uncertain About Horror Films
✍️ Mid-Day
🗓 03 Aug 2026, 09:37 AM
👁 1
Director Syed Shadan has expressed that Hindi cinema appears hesitant to fully embrace horror films, citing a lack of confidence in the genre's potential.
In an interview with Mid-Day, Syed Shadan, the director behind the film "Chaar Diwari," shared his perspective on the current state of horror in Bollywood. He pointed out that filmmakers and producers often hesitate to invest in horror projects, fearing limited audience appeal and box‑office returns.
Shadan explained that while horror has a dedicated fan base, the industry’s focus on mainstream masala and romantic genres leaves little room for experimentation. He believes that a strategic approach—combining strong storytelling with modern production values—could change this perception.
The director also noted that international markets have shown a growing appetite for Indian horror, suggesting that Bollywood could tap into this trend by producing high‑quality content. He urged producers to look beyond conventional tropes and explore diverse sub‑genres within horror.
"If we can deliver a compelling narrative with credible scares, the audience will respond," Shadan said. He added that confidence in the genre is essential for its growth.
The comments come at a time when a handful of Indian horror films have begun to gain traction, but the overall industry still lags behind other sectors in terms of investment and mainstream acceptance.
Shadan explained that while horror has a dedicated fan base, the industry’s focus on mainstream masala and romantic genres leaves little room for experimentation. He believes that a strategic approach—combining strong storytelling with modern production values—could change this perception.
The director also noted that international markets have shown a growing appetite for Indian horror, suggesting that Bollywood could tap into this trend by producing high‑quality content. He urged producers to look beyond conventional tropes and explore diverse sub‑genres within horror.
"If we can deliver a compelling narrative with credible scares, the audience will respond," Shadan said. He added that confidence in the genre is essential for its growth.
The comments come at a time when a handful of Indian horror films have begun to gain traction, but the overall industry still lags behind other sectors in terms of investment and mainstream acceptance.