- By Swati Singh
- Wed, 06 Aug 2025 02:02 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Raat, a Hindi horror thriller directed by Ram Gopal Varma, was released in 1992 and left a lasting impact on audiences. The film was an attempt to introduce the horror genre to mainstream Indian cinema and surprisingly it created chaos in theatres post release. This Hindi horror thriller from the 90s caused a stir in theaters. Raat starred Revathi, Om Puri and Rohini Hattangadi and its eerie storyline captured the attention of viewers nationwide.
According to reports from Times of India, the movie revolves around the Sharma family, who make the decision to move into a new home, unaware of its dark and troubled past.
As the family settles into their new residence, they begin to experience strange and unexplainable occurrences that challenge their perception of reality. The events escalate, culminating in their young daughter's possession by a malevolent entity. This pivotal plot point adds a layer of tension and fear, propelling the narrative forward and keeping audiences on the edge of their seats. With its gripping storyline and effective performances, Raat became a notable entry in the horror genre of 90s Bollywood cinema.
Notably, the background score was composed by Mani Sharma, marking his debut as a music composer. The film's score features only instrumental music, with no songs, adding to its eerie atmosphere.
Raat received positive reviews upon its release, showcasing Varma's direction and the cast's performances. Interestingly, Raat was also the last Telugu and Hindi film to be shot on 70 mm film, making it a notable entry in Indian cinema history. With its unique blend of horror and suspense, Raat has become a cult classic in Indian film history.
It is pertinent to note that the 1990s saw a surge in Indian horror films that captivated the audience with their dark and supernatural themes. Movies like Shaitani Ilaaka (1990) and Mahakaal (1994) are notable examples of this trend, delving into the realms of demonic entities, black magic and supernatural revenge.
Although these films were often classified as C Grade horror, they still managed to gain a significant following and popularity during that era. These low-budget films frequently relied on over-the-top performances, melodrama and sensationalised plotlines to evoke fear and excitement in their viewers.