Scream Stream: Revisiting Bhaagamathie - the Indian movie that combined psyche with horror

Bhaagamathie, featuring Anushka Shetty in the lead role, happens to be one of the most loved horror movies from the Telugu film industry. The film combines the elements of horror with psyche, making it a must watch. It is a film that deserves revisiting for various reasons but especially for how director G. Ashok combined the two elements in a way that nobody saw coming.

The film was remade as Durgamati in Bollywood. Bhumi Pednekar played the lead role in the movie. However, the film did not even come close to the standard Bhaagamathie set.

With fast-paced cinematography and amazing sound effects, Bhaagamathie stole the show. Of course, Anushka's acting deserves applause but without the two elements, even she might have been able to do her job only half-way. Thus, when all the three elements play on-screen, you know that what comes next is a cinematic marvel.

Why did Bhaagamathie work so well?

G. Ashok built every element. Every frame in the movie hints at something in the future. Even the ones that don't have a future reference, are well executed. The first time a horror element is introduced or the first time Chanchala reveals what Bhaagamathie really was, those were quite special and something you wouldn't expect to see.

Cinematography adds on to the scenes

The horror elements were all a work of cinematography. Whether it was Chanchala walking by the pond and something following her or the first time she saw the ghost in the mirror, the shots were taken so correctly that it made you go through the fear along with Chanchala.

The political angle

Along with horror and psyche, Bhaagamathie also explored a side of politics. Chanchala was an IAS officer who worked for the CM. However, nobody knows the truth about this CM, till she brings it all forth in an effective manner.

The story wrap up

When Chanchala wrapped up her story in front of the cops or rather they figured it out, everything was clear for everybody. The whole scene that Chanchala put up where she introduced everyone to Bhaagamathie, remains one of the most memorable scenes because of the same reason.

The Durga references

Bhaagamathie has more than one Durga reference. Chanchala unveils the statue of Goddess Durga right at the beginning of the film, hinting that all who have wronged others, will be punished accordingly. This is a subtle hint many missed the first time they explored the film.

Leaving the horror element intact

Chanchala is asked a question that she has no response to. This hints that there was a horror element involved (which we saw since the beginning). That is once again shown in a beautiful manner - with sparkles floating in the air. It hints that Chanchala and Bhaagamathie were on the same terms and thus, the human was saved.