If Bollywood has ever loved experimenting with genres, Thamma is proof that the gamble continues. Released during the festive Diwali week, the Ayushmann Khurrana and Rashmika Mandanna starrer entered theatres with high expectations, loud promotions, and a promise of entertainment wrapped in mystery. The result is a film that shines brightly in parts but occasionally loses its pulse when it tries to juggle too much at once.
From its opening scene, Thamma announces itself as a mix of myth, horror, and humor, rather than a simple love story. Directed by Amar Kaushik, the filmmaker known for blending fear with laughter in Stree and Bhediya, this film continues his fascination with supernatural tales rooted in Indian folklore. The big difference this time lies in how it attempts to combine heart and horror while keeping the tone light and festive.
The Story: Between Love and Legends
The story follows Thamma, a mythical being who walks the thin line between life and death. Ayushmann Khurrana plays Arjun, a small-town doctor who unknowingly crosses paths with Thamma during a series of eerie events in an old hill station. Rashmika Mandanna plays Tara, a journalist researching local legends, who becomes entangled in Arjun’s world as strange incidents unfold around them.
The first half builds slowly, introducing the eerie atmosphere with dimly lit streets, ancient temples, and shadowy figures. What begins as curiosity soon turns into chaos when the truth behind the legend unravels. The second half picks up pace, revealing a surprising emotional angle that ties the supernatural with human grief and longing.
While the concept sounds fresh, the writing occasionally struggles to balance the tone. The movie wants to be scary, funny, and emotional all at once. Sometimes it works beautifully; other times it feels like three films stitched into one.
Performances That Carry the Film
Ayushmann Khurrana once again proves why he is one of Bollywood’s most fearless actors when it comes to script choices. His portrayal of Arjun is both funny and vulnerable. He doesn’t overplay the fear but brings a realistic sense of panic mixed with curiosity. Rashmika Mandanna, as Tara, adds charm and confidence to the film. Her chemistry with Ayushmann is refreshing, especially during the lighter moments.
Supporting actors like Abhishek Banerjee and Pankaj Tripathi add their usual spark, bringing humor that cuts through the tension. These small touches remind audiences why this horror-comedy universe works so well when the humor lands naturally instead of feeling forced.
Direction and Visual Appeal
Amar Kaushik’s direction is slick and confident. The camera moves gracefully through foggy landscapes and narrow lanes, giving the film a consistent visual rhythm. The use of warm lighting in contrast with cold shadows creates an atmosphere that feels both mystical and cinematic. The background score amplifies the tension without overpowering the scenes.
However, the pacing is uneven. The film’s first act spends too much time setting up the mystery, while the climax feels rushed. Viewers who expect an explosive ending may feel slightly underwhelmed. Yet, the world-building is impressive, and Kaushik manages to give the film a unique personality that sets it apart from regular horror flicks.
Audience and Box Office Buzz
Thamma opened to a strong start at the box office, collecting around ₹24 crore on Day 1. This number marks one of the biggest openings for a Diwali release in 2025. The buzz on social media has been mixed but lively, with fans praising the film’s visual grandeur and performances, even as some complained about the uneven screenplay.
Many viewers described it as a “perfect Diwali watch” for families who enjoy light thrills over intense scares. Others felt the film could have gone deeper into its emotional themes instead of staying safely entertaining. Still, the audience response indicates that Thamma has hit the right chord commercially, even if it divides critics.
The Strengths and Weaknesses
The film’s biggest strength lies in its presentation. The visuals, music, and performances give it a stylish edge. The blend of mythology with romance feels new and culturally grounded. Ayushmann and Rashmika share an easy chemistry that brings warmth amid the chills.
On the flip side, the screenplay falters when it tries too hard to please everyone. The humor occasionally feels misplaced, and certain emotional moments don’t land with enough force. Despite these flaws, Thamma succeeds in offering something different from routine Bollywood fare.
The Larger Picture: Future of Indian Horror Comedy
Thamma also strengthens the growing trend of horror comedies in Hindi cinema. After Stree and Bhediya, it adds another chapter to the evolving genre that combines folklore with modern storytelling. If the film maintains its momentum, it might open the door for sequels or spin-offs within the same cinematic universe.
For now, Thamma stands as a well-mounted Diwali entertainer with visual brilliance and star power. It may not be a perfect film, but it delivers enough charm and chaos to keep audiences invested.
Final Verdict
If you’re looking for a horror film that’s scary yet funny, emotional yet easy to watch, Thamma fits that space comfortably. It’s not groundbreaking, but it’s polished, ambitious, and entertaining in its own way.
Ayushmann Khurrana once again proves his risk-taking instincts, while Rashmika Mandanna shines in a role that blends curiosity with courage. Together, they make Thamma a cinematic experience worth watching on the big screen.
The film might lack the emotional depth of a classic or the consistent punch of Stree, but it makes up for it with scale, heart, and festive energy. For the Diwali season, that’s often exactly what audiences are looking for — a good story, a few laughs, and a reason to step into the theatre.