The Rise of Bollywood’s Horror Universe: The Roadmap Ahead

The Rise of Bollywood’s Horror Universe: The Roadmap Ahead

In 2024, Bollywood’s biggest surprise hit wasn’t a typical masala entertainer or a Khan-led blockbuster—it was Stree Part 2. The film shattered expectations and redefined the genre, pulling Bollywood out of its slump. While fans debated whether the credit should go to Shraddha Kapoor’s star power or Rajkummar Rao’s acting, the real masterminds behind the success were Maddock Films, who crafted a cinematic universe on par with Hollywood’s finest.

From unexpected Varun Dhawan’s Bhediya cameo to Akshay Kumar’s shocking villainous turn, Stree 2 did more than just entertain—it set the stage for a grand Bollywood Horror Universe (BHU). With a clear roadmap spanning eight films over the next four years, Maddock Films has confidently blocked release dates, aiming to deliver an interconnected horror saga that will keep audiences hooked until 2028. Let’s dive into this ambitious plan and explore what’s in store for horror fans.


The Roadmap of Maddock’s Horror Universe (2024-2028)

2025: Two New Characters Join the Universe

  1. Bhediya Part 2 (Postponed to 2026)
    Initially slated for a 2025 release, Varun Dhawan’s Bhediya sequel has been pushed to 2026. While his last release Bawaal failed at the box office, Bhediya 2’s success is guaranteed, thanks to its 100% original storyline and the character’s immense popularity.
  2. Ayushmann Khurrana’s Vampire Film (Late 2025)
    In 2025, Maddock Films will introduce Ayushmann Khurrana as a vampire in a film tentatively titled “Bala Bhaiya Thama”. The announcement was made with a quirky twist, featuring a romantic track with Rashmika Mandanna, blending horror and romance in a way reminiscent of Hollywood’s Twilight saga.
    Interestingly, vampires and werewolves are age-old rivals, setting up a future conflict between Bhediya and Ayushmann’s character.
  3. Shakti Shalini (December 31, 2025)
    Closing out 2025 will be Shakti Shalini, a film introducing a new female ghost to the universe. Rumors suggest Kiara Advani will play the titular role, which may be a reworked version of Janhvi Kapoor’s Roohi character. This time, however, her character will have superpowers and will likely fight alongside the heroes rather than being a villain.

2026: The Year of Conflicts and Alliances

  1. Bhediya Part 2 (Mid-2026)
    The much-anticipated sequel will finally arrive, featuring Varun Dhawan’s werewolf clashing with Ayushmann’s vampire. The film will also feature Shraddha Kapoor in a cameo, where she’ll have to pick a side in this supernatural battle.
  2. Chamunda (December 4, 2026)
    One of the most awaited films in the lineup is Chamunda, which will introduce Alia Bhatt to the horror universe. Reports suggest her character will be a rival to Shraddha Kapoor’s Stree, with a personal vendetta. Interestingly, Chamunda might actually be Shraddha’s hidden identity, hinted at in Stree 2.
    This film will mark the start of a fierce rivalry between Alia and Shraddha’s characters, setting the stage for a monumental face-off.

2027: The Big Showdown Begins

  1. Stree Part 3
    The much-anticipated Stree 3 will finally give fans what they’ve been waiting for—a face-off between Alia Bhatt’s Chamunda and Shraddha Kapoor’s Stree. The film will explore the true nature of Stree, leaving the audience to question whether she’s a hero or villain.
  2. Maha Munja (December 24, 2027)
    The final film of 2027 will be Maha Munja, a movie that will delve into the origins of Munja, a powerful villain introduced in Stree Part 1. There are speculations that Alia Bhatt’s character might have a mysterious connection with Munja, which will play a crucial role in deciding which side he takes in the epic conflict.

2028: The Grand Finale – Mahayuddh Parts 1 & 2

  1. Mahayuddh Part 1 (August 11, 2028)
    The first part of the grand finale will see Shraddha Kapoor’s team suffer a major defeat, with Akshay Kumar’s mysterious villain character and Alia Bhatt’s Chamunda leading the charge. Expect intense battles, twists, and betrayals.
  2. Mahayuddh Part 2 (October 11, 2028)
    Just two months after Part 1, Mahayuddh Part 2 will hit theaters, bringing together all the heroes—Varun Dhawan, Ayushmann Khurrana, Kiara Advani, and Munja—to unite against Akshay Kumar’s villain. This film is expected to be Bollywood’s answer to Avengers: Endgame, concluding the horror universe with an epic showdown.

What Makes This Horror Universe Unique?

  • No Dependence on Big Khans or Kapoors:
    Unlike traditional Bollywood blockbusters, Maddock Films is not relying on big male superstars. Instead, they’re building their universe around content, storytelling, and fresh characters.
  • Strong Female Leads:
    The horror universe features strong female characters, with Shraddha Kapoor, Kiara Advani, and Alia Bhatt playing pivotal roles in the narrative.
  • Long-Term Planning:
    Maddock Films has meticulously planned an eight-film series, ensuring a cohesive storyline that connects each movie to the next.

Why This Universe Could Be a Game-Changer for Bollywood

Bollywood has rarely seen interconnected cinematic universes that span multiple films. Maddock Films is taking a bold step by creating a shared horror universe that appeals to mass and class audiences alike. With varied characters, original stories, and a well-thought-out roadmap, this universe could be Bollywood’s biggest success story in the coming years.


Which Film Are Fans Most Excited About?

  • Chamunda (Alia Bhatt’s entry)
  • Bhediya Part 2 (Varun Dhawan’s comeback)
  • Stree 3 (The face-off between Shraddha and Alia)
  • Mahayuddh Parts 1 & 2 (The grand finale)

Each film has a unique appeal, but the face-off between Shraddha Kapoor and Alia Bhatt seems to be the most anticipated. Fans are eager to see who emerges as the ultimate hero or villain in this gripping saga.


Final Thoughts

Maddock Films is shaking up Indian cinema by demonstrating that films made solely with a content focus can do well without the stereotypical big actor. Stree Part Two was a huge success and the studio has set up the basis for a horror universe that could be comparable to the cinematic universes of Hollywood.

The question still lingers—will this gamble prove to be worth the risk? Well if the way forward goes by, get ready for a horror filled ride Bollywood fans, and get ready to scream for joy!

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