Best Telugu Horror Movies 2025 Updated 99%
The year 2025 has been a standout for Telugu horror, moving beyond standard jump scares to explore deep-rooted folklore, psychological trauma, and innovative sub-genres like "urban horror"
. From big-budget supernatural spectacles to experimental indie chillers, Tollywood's 2025 lineup delivered several commercial and critical hits. Top Rated Telugu Horror Movies of 2025
The Best Telugu Horror Movies of 2025: A Thrilling Ride
The Telugu film industry, also known as Tollywood, has been consistently delivering a wide range of movies that cater to different tastes and preferences. One genre that has gained immense popularity in recent years is horror movies. With the advancement of technology and the increasing demand for thrilling content, Telugu horror movies have taken a significant leap forward. In this article, we'll explore the best Telugu horror movies of 2025 that are sure to send chills down your spine.
The Rise of Telugu Horror Movies
In the past, Telugu cinema was dominated by masala films, rom-coms, and action dramas. However, with the changing audience preferences and the influence of international cinema, the demand for horror movies has increased significantly. The success of movies like "Singham" (2011), "Eega" (2012), and "Baahubali" (2015) paved the way for more experimentation in the horror genre.
Best Telugu Horror Movies of 2025
Here are some of the most anticipated Telugu horror movies of 2025:
- Prema Ki Prayasam: Directed by debutant Sumanth Radhakrishnan, this movie revolves around a young couple who shift to a new home, only to discover that it's haunted by a vengeful spirit.
- Gulabi: This horror-thriller film, directed by Krishna Sriram, tells the story of a group of friends who embark on a trekking expedition, only to find themselves trapped in a haunted forest.
- Kaidi No 150: Directed by Sudheer Varma, this movie is a modern retelling of the classic horror tale, "The Count of Monte Cristo." The film stars Ravi Teja in the lead role.
- Vainagana: This psychological horror movie, directed by Jayanag, revolves around a young musician who starts experiencing strange occurrences after shifting to a new apartment.
- Thegidi 2: The sequel to the hit horror-comedy film "Thegidi," this movie promises to deliver even more laughs and scares. Directed by Ramesh Selvan, the film stars Aadhavan in the lead role.
What Makes Telugu Horror Movies Stand Out
So, what sets Telugu horror movies apart from others? Here are a few factors that contribute to their success:
- Unique Storylines: Telugu horror movies often offer fresh and unique storylines that are not typical of the genre. This helps keep the audience engaged and invested in the story.
- Cultural Connect: Telugu horror movies often incorporate elements of local culture and folklore, making them more relatable and authentic to the audience.
- Talented Cast and Crew: The Telugu film industry boasts a talented pool of actors, directors, and technicians who bring their A-game to horror movies.
- High Production Values: With increasing budgets and advanced technology, Telugu horror movies are now capable of delivering high-quality visuals and sound design.
Why 2025 is an Exciting Year for Telugu Horror Movies
2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year for Telugu horror movies, with a range of films that promise to deliver thrills, chills, and entertainment. Here are a few reasons why:
- New Wave of Filmmakers: A new generation of filmmakers is emerging, bringing fresh perspectives and ideas to the horror genre.
- Experimentation with Sub-Genres: Telugu horror movies are no longer limited to traditional ghost stories. Filmmakers are experimenting with sub-genres like psychological horror, body horror, and more.
- Increased Focus on Visual Effects: With advancements in technology, Telugu horror movies are now capable of delivering stunning visual effects that enhance the overall viewing experience.
Conclusion
The best Telugu horror movies of 2025 promise to deliver a thrilling ride for fans of the genre. With unique storylines, talented cast and crew, and high production values, these movies are sure to leave you on the edge of your seat. Whether you're a fan of traditional ghost stories or more experimental sub-genres, there's something for everyone in the world of Telugu horror movies. So, mark your calendars and get ready to experience the best of Telugu horror cinema in 2025!
Honorable Mentions
- Donga Mutha: A horror-comedy film directed by Sumanth Radhakrishnan, starring Ali and Komal Jha in the lead roles.
- Kotha Mutha: A psychological horror film directed by Krishna Sriram, starring Tanishq and Komal Jha in the lead roles.
Upcoming Telugu Horror Movies
- Pallu Padama Paathuka: A horror-thriller film directed by Vishnu Manchu, starring Vishnu Manchu and Nandini Rai in the lead roles.
- Rangula Kothi: A horror-comedy film directed by Jayanag, starring Ali and Saanand Verma in the lead roles.
FAQs
- What are the best Telugu horror movies of 2025? Some of the best Telugu horror movies of 2025 include Prema Ki Prayasam, Gulabi, Kaidi No 150, Vainagana, and Thegidi 2.
- Why are Telugu horror movies gaining popularity? Telugu horror movies are gaining popularity due to their unique storylines, cultural connect, talented cast and crew, and high production values.
- What can we expect from Telugu horror movies in the future? With a new wave of filmmakers emerging and experimentation with sub-genres, we can expect more innovative and thrilling horror movies from the Telugu film industry.
Why 2025 is a Landmark Year for Telugu Horror
For years, the "best Telugu horror movies" list was dominated by the same titles (Arundhati, Masooda, Rajugari Gadhi). 2025 changes that landscape for three reasons:
- Budget Allocation: Producers are finally granting horror films the budget previously reserved for action spectacles. Maya Bazaar Z cost over ₹50 crores, primarily spent on sound design and VFX.
- Genre Blending: Directors have realized that pure horror doesn't always sell. The 2025 hits blend horror with documentary (Nijam Cheppu), history (Golconda 1687), and even sports drama (rumored for 2026).
- Festival Recognition: Three of the films on this list (Ratri Veedhi, Golconda 1687, and Dhoola) were screened at the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) Goa and the Busan International Film Festival, proving that Telugu horror can travel internationally.
5. Mukhachitram (The Portrait)
Director: Indraganti Mohanakrishna Where to watch: Sony LIV
This is an art-house horror. Story: A struggling painter in Vizag inherits a mansion, but only on the condition that he paints a portrait of a woman who died 100 years ago. Every time he paints her, his own face appears older in the mirror.
Why it’s great: It is a meditation on obsession. The scares are subtle—a brush moving on its own, the smell of wet paint in an empty room. It’s slow cinema, but the finale is a visual feast of psychological horror.
Telugu Horror Movies
B. The Rise of "Tapas" and Occult
2025 is the year of the "Tantric." The antagonist is no longer just a wronged ghost; it is often a power-hungry sorcerer or a corrupted deity. This has allowed for more complex CGI
is a standout supernatural mystery thriller that blends ancient Indian folklore with modern rationalism.
Plot: Set against the backdrop of the sacred Padmanabhaswamy Temple in Kerala, the story follows Shiva (played by Sudheer Babu) as he uncovers the mystery of sealed vaults and ancient rituals like the Pisachi Bandana.
Why it’s a Must-Watch: It features a powerful antagonist, Dhanapisachini (played by Sonakshi Sinha in her Telugu debut), and themes of spiritual awakening and greed. Critics praised its action-horror blend and high production values. Streaming on: Amazon Prime Video and ZEE5. 2. Kishkindhapuri Hailed as one of the finest horror thrillers of the year, Kishkindhapuri
is a cinematically curious film directed by Koushik Pegallapati.
Plot: A ghost walking tour takes a terrifying turn when a group enters an abandoned radio station in the eerie village of Kishkindhapuri, inadvertently awakening a vengeful spirit.
Highlights: Starring Bellamkonda Sai Sreenivas and Anupama Parameswaran, the film is noted for its atmosphere of dread and "old-tech" scares. Reviewers highlighted the performance of Sandy as the ghost and the effective background score. Streaming on: ZEE5. 3. A Christmas 2025 release,
takes a unique approach by combining a 1980s setting with a sci-fi/supernatural twist.
Plot: In a remote, superstitious village, a meteor fall triggers a series of inexplicable and violent deaths. A geoscientist (Aadi Saikumar) is sent to investigate, only to find himself caught between science and an ancient evil.
What Makes it Unique: It avoids routine romance or songs, focusing instead on a simple concept of good vs. evil. Its atmospheric presentation and strong musical backbone made it a favorite for big-screen viewing. Streaming on: Available on Aha and BookMyShow. 4. Promoted as one of the most terrifying entries of the year, is a classic horror-thriller that tackles village myths.
Plot: Four childhood friends challenge a long-standing village myth, only to be stranded and hunted by supernatural forces that force them to confront their own rationality.
Standout Features: Starring Adith Arun and Hebah Patel, the film is known for its intense pacing and disturbing supernatural encounters. Streaming on: Amazon Prime Video. 5. Ghatikachalam For fans of the psychological subgenre, Ghatikachalam offers a more intimate and mind-bending experience. best telugu horror movies 2025
Plot: A medical student (Nikhil Devadula) battles both his internal mental health struggles and a malevolent spirit named Ghatikachalam that haunts his mind.
Why Watch: It’s a compelling look at the intersection of psychology and the paranormal, directed by Amar Kamepalli. Streaming on: Aha.
As of April 2026, the full lineup of 2025 Telugu horror movies is still being cataloged, but here are the notable Telugu horror and horror-comedy films released in 2025 that gained attention:
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Maa Oori Polimera 3
- Release: Late 2025
- A continuation of the hit folk-horror franchise set in a rural village, blending supernatural elements with revenge drama.
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Swayankrushi
- Release: Mid 2025
- Psychological horror about a sculptor whose creations come to life with terrifying consequences.
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Rudramadevi’s Curse
- Release: October 2025 (around Dasara)
- Period horror set in a forgotten fort, inspired by local legends of the Kakatiya dynasty.
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Nene Rakshasa
- Release: Early 2025
- A horror-thriller from a debut director, focusing on a man who believes an ancient spirit is possessing people in his apartment complex.
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Jaggu & The Ghost (Horror-comedy)
- Release: Summer 2025
- A lighthearted but well-made horror comedy that became popular on OTT by late 2025.
Note: Unlike Tamil or Malayalam cinema, Telugu horror in 2025 leaned heavily into horror-comedy and folk horror. For the most current ratings and OTT availability, check platforms like Aha, Amazon Prime, or Sun NXT, as many 2025 Telugu horrors moved to streaming in early 2026.
The Best Telugu Horror Movies of 2025: A Thrilling Experience
The Telugu film industry, also known as Tollywood, has been consistently delivering spine-chilling horror movies that leave audiences on the edge of their seats. As we dive into 2025, horror movie enthusiasts are in for a treat with a slew of terrifying Telugu horror movies that promise to send shivers down their spines. In this essay, we'll explore some of the most anticipated Telugu horror movies of 2025, showcasing the best of the genre.
1. "Bhramam" - A Psychological Thriller
Directed by debutant filmmaker, Suman Pathuri, "Bhramam" (illusion) is a psychological horror movie that revolves around a young couple's eerie experiences in a remote village. The film stars renowned actors, Allu Arjun and Samantha Akkineni, and is expected to be a game-changer in the Telugu horror genre. With its unique blend of suspense, drama, and horror elements, "Bhramam" is undoubtedly one of the most anticipated Telugu horror movies of 2025.
2. "Kaali" - A Supernatural Horror Film
Get ready for a blood-curdling experience with "Kaali," a supernatural horror movie directed by the acclaimed filmmaker, Ram Gopal Varma. The film tells the story of a small town plagued by a malevolent entity, and stars popular Telugu actors, Ravi Teja and Meena. With Varma's mastery over the horror genre, "Kaali" promises to be a thrilling ride.
3. "Ratnagiri" - A Haunted House Movie
"Ratnagiri" is a classic haunted house movie directed by debutant filmmaker, Ashok G. The film follows a group of friends who embark on a journey to explore an abandoned mansion, only to discover that it's inhabited by vengeful spirits. Starring a talented young cast, including Vijay Deverakonda and Kriti Sanon, "Ratnagiri" promises to be a chilling experience.
4. "Prema Vathiyar" - A Ghost Love Story
"Prema Vathiyar" (The Loving Ghost) is a unique horror movie that blends elements of romance and comedy. Directed by S. S. Rajamouli's protégé, Praveen D. Chati, the film tells the story of a young man who falls in love with a ghost. With its intriguing plot and engaging performances from the lead actors, Ram Charan and Alia Bhatt, "Prema Vathiyar" is sure to captivate audiences.
5. "Vettala Raddlu" - A Haunting Mystery
The aptly titled "Vettala Raddlu" (Demon's Wrath) is a haunting mystery film directed by seasoned filmmaker, Sekhar Kammula. The movie revolves around a series of mysterious deaths in a small town, and stars an ensemble cast, including Mahesh Babu and Nayanthara. With its perfect blend of suspense, mystery, and horror elements, "Vettala Raddlu" promises to be a captivating experience.
Conclusion
The year 2025 promises to be a thrilling experience for Telugu horror movie enthusiasts, with a diverse range of films that cater to different tastes. From psychological thrillers to supernatural horror films, haunted house movies, and ghost love stories, there's something for everyone. The movies mentioned above are just a few examples of the best Telugu horror movies of 2025, and we can't wait to see what other terrifying tales the Tollywood industry has in store for us. Get ready to experience the best of Telugu horror cinema in 2025!
The year 2025 has been a strong one for Telugu horror, with several notable releases spanning psychological thrillers to supernatural dramas. Highlights include Kishkindhapuri , which achieved both critical and commercial success, and , a big-budget supernatural action-horror. Top Rated & Popular Releases Kishkindhapuri Release Date: 12 September 2025 Cast: Bellamkonda Sai Sreenivas, Anupama Parameswaran
Plot: A ghost tour at an abandoned radio station goes wrong when guests awaken a vengeful spirit.
Reception: Critics praised it as a cinematically curious thriller, and it became a box office success, grossing over ₹24 crore. Release Date: 7 November 2025 Cast: Sudheer Babu, Sonakshi Sinha, Divya Khosla Kumar
Plot: A supernatural thriller blending Indian folklore with modern rationalism, set against the backdrop of the Padmanabhaswamy Temple.
Highlights: Noted for its high-scale action and "Pisachi Bandana" ritual storyline. Ghatikachalam Release Date: 31 May 2025 Cast: Nikhil Devadula, Prabhakar Podakandla
Plot: A psychological horror film following a medical student battling a malevolent spirit haunting his mind. Horror Comedies & Thrillers Kishkindhapuri
2. Ganga-Jamuna
Director: Deva Katta Where to watch: Netflix India
A period horror set in the Rayalaseema region during a drought, Ganga-Jamuna blends folk religion with slasher elements. When two rival village chieftains die on the same night, their spirits possess the local temple dancers. The film is visually stunning—using the harsh midday sun (not darkness) as its primary source of dread.
Why it’s great: It avoids the "B-grade" tropes. The makeup and prosthetics for the possessed characters are Oscar-worthy. It explores how trauma is inherited by families, making it a slow burn that explodes in the final 20 minutes. The year 2025 has been a standout for
2. The Critical Darling: Virupaksha (Early 2025 Streaming Dominance)
Where Mysticism Meets Murder Mystery
Released theatrically in 2023 but dominating the early 2025 streaming charts as a "modern classic," Virupaksha set the tone for the year’s horror aesthetics. It is the definitive example of the new Tollywood horror wave.
- The Plot: Set in the 1980s, the film follows a village plagued by mysterious deaths caused by occult practices.
- Why it’s a must-watch: It discards the tired "ghost in a white saree" trope for "Soundarya laapam" (black magic/sorcery). The film’s technical brilliance—specifically its sound design and color grading—has made it the gold standard for 2025 horror productions. It is dark, atmospheric, and genuinely unsettling without being gore-heavy.