Thama: After the massive success of Stree, Stree 2, Munjya and Bhediya, Maddock Films is all set to release another horror comedy, Thama. The film, starring Ayushmann Khurrana, is scheduled to hit theatres during Diwali 2025 and promises a bloody love story. Directed by Aditya Sarpotdar and produced by Dinesh Vijan along with Amar Kaushik, the movie will be the latest addition to Maddock’s much-loved horror-comedy universe. Fans can also expect a special cameo from Varun Dhawan’s werewolf character from Bhediya, linking the films together.

On 18 August, the makers unveiled Ayushmann Khurrana’s first look as Alok. He is presented as the only hope of humanity, reminiscent of Rajkummar Rao’s Vicky from Stree. The production house also revealed the first looks of Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Rashmika Mandanna and Paresh Rawal in the film. Nawazuddin plays the vampire Yakshasan – Andhere ka badshah (the king of darkness). Dressed in a striking red outfit, his look is creepy and dramatic, with a statue of a vampire in the background. Maddock captioned the reveal, “Presenting Nawazuddin Siddiqui as Yakshasan - Andhere ka badshah. The World of Thama drops tomorrow at 11:11 am. This Diwali, the universe gives us a bloody love story in cinemas worldwide - #Thama.”

 
 
 
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Meanwhile, Rashmika Mandanna has been introduced as Tadaka – Roshni ki ek hi paheli kiran (the only ray of light). Her flowing hair and green outfit give her a powerful, almost superwoman-like aura, similar to Shraddha Kapoor’s mysterious role in Stree. Paresh Rawal’s character, Mr. Ram Bajaj Goyal, seems inspired by Pankaj Tripathi’s Rudra from Stree. He is described as “Jo Hamesha Comedy Mein Tragedy Dhoondhte Hain” (the one who always finds tragedy in comedy). His role appears both quirky and significant. Interestingly, his name also feels like a playful nod to his iconic Ram Gopal Bajaj from the cult comedy Andaz Apna Apna (1994).

 
 
 
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On the other hand, speaking to Variety, Ayushmann Khurrana expressed his excitement about joining Maddock’s horror-comedy universe. He said, “I’m excited that Dinesh Vijan feels this is the best time for me to enter his blockbuster horror-comedy universe in and as Thama.” He added, “I can’t wait for the reaction of people when they see it in theatres next Diwali. The manner in which Dinesh is crafting this universe’s every beat is truly commendable, and he deserves all the love and adulation that he is receiving.” This marks Ayushmann’s second collaboration with Dinesh Vijan after Bala.

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About Thama Movie

Thama is expected to unfold across two different time periods – a modern North Indian city and the Vijayanagara Empire. While Ayushmann’s Alok is reportedly a vampire and the central figure of the love story, Nawazuddin’s Yakshasan is said to be a violent antagonist from centuries ago, seeking revenge in the present day. The first teaser, titled The World of Thama, will be released on 19th August at 11:11 am. Earlier, Maddock Films teased the film in a promo video released on Independence Day. The clip featured creatures from previous films in the universe and asked, “Who is the most powerful?” before hinting at the arrival of a new and deadlier character. With an ensemble cast, a grand setting, and Maddock’s proven track record, Thama is already being tipped as one of the most anticipated films of 2025.