Filmmaker Vishal Furia is known for redefining Indian horror with socially relevant themes and strong female leads in films like Lapachhapi (2017), Chhorii (2021), and Chhorii 2 (2025). He is now gearing up for the release of his next titled Maa, which stars Kajol as the protagonist. Said to be the second offering from the world of Shaitaan (2024), which starred Ajay Devgn, R Madhavan, Jyotika, and Janki Bodiwala in the leads, Maa is scheduled to hit the theatres on June 27, 2025.
In this candid interview with The Movie Mail, Vishal discusses the evolution of horror in Indian cinema, the technical challenges of the genre, and why success in films doesn’t hinge on the gender of the protagonists. From the social horror explored in Chhorii to working with powerhouse actresses, he reveals his vision for a creative revival in Indian horror cinema.
Edited excerpts:
Indian horror has had a long reputation for being low-brow with over-the-top prosthetics, unnecessary eroticism, and weak storytelling. Your films, however, have been praised for their production quality. How do you view this evolution?
A. You’re right. Earlier, horror in India leaned into tropes because those films worked back then. But over time, the genre stagnated. That is changing now. We’re exploring Indian folklore through horror and horror-comedy. Technically, horror is one of the toughest genres — it relies on sound, VFX, lighting, and, above all, performances. If any of these slip, the scene falls flat. But when everything works and the audience reacts, it’s the most fulfilling feeling.
Do any of your personal fears seep into your writing or direction?
A. Yes, though I rarely speak of them. As a kid, I feared failing exams — despite being prepared, the anxiety kept me up. I also have a fear of being lost in vast, directionless spaces. These emotions do subtly shape my work. Watching international horror also influenced my storytelling instincts.
Tell us about your new film Maa, starring Kajol.
A. Maa wasn’t my script — I was brought on as director. And I feel fortunate that Ajay Devgn offered me this opportunity. It’s a blend of Indian mythology and horror rooted in our culture. Kajol ma’am was a dream to work with. We’ve admired her since our younger days, and her taking on horror adds something fresh. Ajay sir was a mentor throughout. I’ve learned a lot from him.
What is the social horror that compelled you to make a film like Chhorii?
A. While writing Lapachhapi (the original Marathi film), the theme of female infanticide emerged organically. I researched more and was disturbed by the reality. That’s how Chhorii took shape — not just as horror, but as a commentary on a deeply rooted social evil. Audiences today are more aware; they want films that entertain and provoke thought. Horror can be a great tool to tell uncomfortable truths.
You’ve consistently cast powerful female leads in your horror films. Is that a deliberate choice?
A. I cast them because they’re perfect for the role. Nushrratt (Bharucchaa), Soha Ali Khan, and now Kajol — all brought something unique. Soha’s casting as Daasi Maa in Chhorii 2 raised eyebrows, but her grace, intellect, and background brought depth. She also felt the role could drive awareness.
Casting strong women isn’t a statement. It’s about finding the right actor. Mainstream actors like Kajol bring attention and credibility to a genre like horror.
But do you feel women-led films have more pressure to succeed?
A. Absolutely, and that’s unfair. Female characters bring complexity that often gets overlooked. We’ve seen male-led films fail too — so it’s never about gender. When my Marathi horror film released, women came in large numbers because they connected with the subject. Female-led stories do draw audiences. The truth is, there’s no guaranteed success formula — only good storytelling.
Chhorii 2 released on OTT while Maa is a theatrical release. Do you think OTT is hurting theatres?
A. I think both must coexist. Horror is still building its base in India. OTT helped with that. Chhorii and Chhorii 2 gave audiences a taste of serious horror. Now, Maa is ready for the big screen. Horror-comedies are also bringing in new viewers. For the industry to grow, different kinds of films must work across different platforms. It’s not OTT versus cinema. It’s about meeting the audience where they are.
