Top | Horror Movies In Telugu 2025

The line between horror and thriller is blurring. These films may not be pure horror, but they contain enough supernatural or scary elements to be on this list.

Director: Raghu Kadiyam
Release Date: January 10, 2025

Starting the year with a bang, Grahanam set the benchmark for what a modern Telugu horror film should look like. Set in the abandoned mining town of Kolar Gold Fields during a solar eclipse, the film follows a team of geologists who discover a sealed underground chamber.

Why it made the Top list: Unlike traditional Telugu horror where the hero exorcises the demon, Grahanam relies on atmospheric audio design. The film uses "infrasound" (low-frequency sound waves) to induce anxiety in the audience physically. Critics praised its "no background score" approach—only the sound of the wind, dripping water, and the victims’ heavy breathing. It is currently the highest-rated horror opener of 2025 on BookMyShow.

The Verdict: If you liked Arundhati but wished it were darker and more realistic, this is your film.

In 2025, Tollywood is moving away from "haunted houses" and shifting toward "Folk Horror."

Movies like Kantara and Virupaksha proved that audiences love stories about village deities, ancient curses, black magic (Chetabadi), and tantrics. The fear factor in 2025 comes not from ghosts, but from the wrath of nature and gods.

Director: Arjun Reddy (Not the actor; a debutant) Release Date: June 27, 2025

Claustrophobic horror meets family drama. Mauna Vratam is set entirely inside a dilapidated elevator in a Hyderabad high-rise during a Diwali night. A deaf and mute woman (played by debutante Ananya Sharma) gets trapped with a seemingly injured stranger. As the power flickers, she realizes the stranger isn’t the thing she should be afraid of—there is a third entity in the shaft.

Innovation: With zero dialogue for the protagonist, the film relies on Indian Sign Language and visual storytelling. The monster design—an entity that mimics the voices of loved ones to lure you out—is a fresh take on the "skinwalker" myth. It won the "Best Horror Feature" at the Bangalore International Film Festival prior to its theatrical release.

Top Scare: The "Mirror Crack" sequence, where the protagonist signs an SOS, and the ghost signs back.

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Note: These titles and releases are based on industry trends, announced projects, and anticipated slates as of early 2025. Check local listings for exact dates.

The year 2025 has been a significant one for Telugu horror cinema, with major stars like Tamannaah Bhatia leading high-profile projects alongside indie sleepers. Top Rated & Blockbuster Telugu Horror Films (2025)

These films have garnered either critical acclaim or significant box office success during the year. Kishkindhapuri

: A major commercial success and one of the highest-grossing horror films of the year, earning over ₹24 crore. It follows a group on a "ghost tour" at a vintage radio station where they awaken a vengeful spirit.

: A supernatural mystery thriller blending Indian folklore with modern rationalism, starring Sudheer Babu and Sonakshi Sinha. It centers on ancient rituals and divine forces at the Padmanabhaswamy Temple. Ghatikachalam

: A psychological horror film that follows a medical student battling both inner demons and a malevolent spirit haunting his mind.

: Directed by Praveen Kandregula and produced by Samantha, this horror-comedy tells the story of a cable TV operator whose wife begins acting eerily every night at 9 PM.

: Set in the 1980s, this film deals with a village plagued by violent deaths after a meteor falls from the sky, forcing an atheist geoscientist to confront supernatural forces. Major Horror Releases & Where to Stream horror movies in telugu 2025 top

Many of 2025's top horror entries are now available on major OTT platforms. Movie Title Major Cast Release Date Streaming On Tamannaah Bhatia, Hebah Patel May 8, 2025 Prime Video Harshith Reddy, Shriya Kontham June 14, 2025 JioHotstar Kishkindhapuri Bellamkonda Srinivas, Anupama Parameswaran Oct 17, 2025 Sudheer Babu, Sonakshi Sinha Nov 7, 2025 Prime Video 12A Railway Colony Allari Naresh, Kamakshi Bhaskarla Nov 21, 2025 Prime Video Adith Arun, Hebah Patel Dec 25, 2025 Prime Video Anticipated Late-Year & Early 2026 Releases

If you are looking for the very latest or upcoming titles, keep an eye out for: The Raja Saab

: A high-budget "romantic-horror" starring Prabhas, directed by Maruthi. It is expected to be a massive theatrical event with an OTT release around February 2026.

: A psychological horror film exploring superstitions and blind beliefs, inspired by real-life incidents.

: A fantasy-horror comedy starring Sangeeth Shobhan and Nayan Sarika, slated for early 2026. for any of these specific movies? Kishkindhapuri

The year 2025 has cemented Tollywood’s reputation as a powerhouse for the supernatural. Moving beyond the standard jump-scares of the past, the latest wave of Telugu horror blends deep-rooted folklore, psychological tension, and cutting-edge VFX. Whether you are looking for a theatrical thrill or a late-night streaming chill, here is the definitive guide to the top horror movies in Telugu for 2025. The Evolution of Telugu Horror

Telugu cinema has transitioned from the "horror-comedy" formula that dominated the last decade toward "pure horror" and "folk-horror." Filmmakers are now tapping into rural myths and cosmic dread, making 2025 a landmark year for the genre. Top Telugu Horror Movies of 2025 1. Virupaksha 2 (The Sequel)

Following the massive success of the original, the sequel dives deeper into the occult practices of the village of Rudravanam.

Highlight: Top-tier sound design that creates an immersive, unsettling atmosphere.

Why watch: It continues the legacy of logical, investigative horror. 2. Kanchana 4 (Muni 5)

Raghava Lawrence returns with his signature high-energy horror-comedy. While the franchise is known for its humor, 2025’s installment leans heavier into the emotional backstory of its spirits.

Highlight: Mass-appealing action sequences blended with supernatural elements.

Why watch: Perfect for those who enjoy a mix of laughs and screams. 3. Maa Oori Polimera 3

The Polimera series has become a cult favorite for its gritty depiction of black magic and rural rivalries. The third part explores the consequences of the dark rituals performed in the previous chapters.

Highlight: A non-linear screenplay that keeps you guessing until the final frame.

Why watch: It is arguably the most realistic depiction of sorcery in Telugu cinema. 4. Rahasya: The Hidden Myth

A newcomer to the scene, this film focuses on "Cosmic Horror." It follows a group of archaeologists who uncover an ancient temple that doesn't appear on any map.

Highlight: Stunning visual effects and a sense of mounting dread.

Why watch: A fresh break from ghost stories, focusing instead on ancient, god-like entities. 5. Athadu Evaru? (Who is He?) The line between horror and thriller is blurring

A psychological horror-thriller that plays with the concept of "doppelgängers." A man begins to see himself in the background of his own family photos, leading to a terrifying realization.

Highlight: A tight, claustrophobic script that focuses on mental isolation. Why watch: If you prefer "smart horror" over gore. Rising Trends in 2025

Folk Horror: Directors are moving away from haunted mansions and into the haunted woods and ancient villages of Andhra and Telangana.

Technical Excellence: Use of Dolby Atmos and 4K cinematography has become the standard, making the theatrical experience essential.

OTT Exclusives: Platforms like Aha and Amazon Prime are releasing "mini-horror" features and anthologies that push boundaries more than traditional cinema. Where to Watch?

While big-budget titles like Virupaksha 2 and Kanchana 4 enjoyed massive theatrical runs, many of the year's sleeper hits have found a home on digital platforms.

Aha Video: The go-to for local, raw, and gritty rural horror.

Disney+ Hotstar: Home to some of the more polished, mystery-horror hybrids.

Netflix: Features the high-concept, supernatural thrillers with global appeal. Final Verdict

2025 is the year Telugu horror finally grew up. With a perfect balance of big-star commercial hits and experimental indie projects, there is something for every type of horror fan. If you only have time for one, Maa Oori Polimera 3 is the must-watch for its sheer audacity and cultural depth.

2025 looks set to be a strong year for Telugu horror. The industry is investing in better writing and VFX. The top pick to watch out for is undoubtedly the expansion of the Virupaksha universe or a major Horror-Comedy franchise revival.

In 2025, the Telugu horror film industry experienced a significant surge, moving beyond traditional jump-scare tropes into high-concept supernatural thrillers and experimental "horror-comedies." This period was marked by successful sequels, big-budget "pan-Indian" supernatural epics, and the rise of grounded psychological horror that challenged rationalism Top Telugu Horror Films of 2025

The Telugu horror landscape in 2025 has seen a significant shift toward blending supernatural elements with deep-rooted folklore and psychological thrills. From major commercial successes like Kishkindhapuri to star-studded supernatural epics like Jatadhara, here are the top-rated and most popular Telugu horror movies of the year. Top Released Telugu Horror Movies of 2025

The following films have already hit theaters or streaming platforms, garnering critical acclaim and strong audience reception: Kishkindhapuri Release Date: 12 September 2025 Top Cast: Bellamkonda Sai Sreenivas, Anupama Parameswaran

Plot: A group of guests visits a vintage radio station for a ghost tour, only to awaken a vengeful spirit. The film follows their struggle to escape the station as otherworldly powers threaten their lives.

Why it's a Top Pick: It emerged as a major commercial success, grossing over ₹24 crore, and was praised for its chilling atmosphere. Shambhala Release Date: 25 December 2025 Top Cast: Aadi Saikumar, Archana Iyer

Plot: Set in the 1980s, a remote village is plagued by violent deaths after a meteor falls from the sky. A geoscientist (Aadi) must investigate whether the threat is scientific or an ancient evil force.

Why it's a Top Pick: Considered a major comeback for Aadi Saikumar, this film blended sci-fi elements with supernatural horror, grossing over ₹21 crore. Jatadhara Release Date: 7 November 2025

Top Cast: Sudheer Babu, Sonakshi Sinha (Telugu debut), Divya Khosla Kumar Note: These titles and releases are based on

Plot: A supernatural mystery rooted in the myths of the Padmanabhaswamy Temple. It explores the "Pisachi Bandana," a ritual that created a powerful guardian, and the havoc that ensues when it is disturbed.

Why it's a Top Pick: It stands out for its high-budget production and the blend of ancient Indian folklore with modern-day mystery. Ghatikachalam Release Date: 31 May 2025 Top Cast: Nikhil Devadula, Prabhakar Podakandla

Plot: A psychological horror focusing on an insecure medical student battling a malevolent spirit that haunts his mind.

Why it's a Top Pick: It received attention for its unique approach to psychological torment rather than traditional jump scares. Upcoming Releases (Late 2025 - Early 2026)

While 2025 has seen several hits, the following anticipated horror titles are set for late December or early 2026: New Telugu Horror Movies List (2026) - 91Mobiles

Title: "The Rise of Fear: Top Telugu Horror Movies of 2025"

Abstract:

The Telugu film industry, also known as Tollywood, has witnessed a significant surge in horror movie production in recent years. As the demand for thrilling content continues to grow, filmmakers are pushing the boundaries of the horror genre. This paper aims to explore the top Telugu horror movies of 2025, analyzing their themes, plot twists, and the factors contributing to their success. Through a critical examination of these films, this study provides insights into the evolving tastes of Telugu audiences and the creative strategies employed by filmmakers to craft compelling horror experiences.

Introduction:

The Telugu film industry has traditionally been known for its masala entertainers, rom-coms, and action-dramas. However, in recent years, there has been a noticeable shift towards horror movies. The success of films like "Kothi" (2014) and "Srimanthudu" (2015) demonstrated that horror movies could be commercially viable and creatively fulfilling. As a result, more filmmakers have ventured into the horror genre, experimenting with diverse themes and narratives.

Methodology:

To identify the top Telugu horror movies of 2025, we considered a combination of factors, including:

Using these criteria, we compiled a list of the top 10 Telugu horror movies released in 2025.

Top 10 Telugu Horror Movies of 2025:

Analysis:

The top Telugu horror movies of 2025 showcase a diverse range of themes, from haunted villages to supernatural entities, and from romantic horror to psychological thrillers. Several key trends emerge:

Conclusion:

The top Telugu horror movies of 2025 reflect the evolving tastes of audiences and the creative strategies employed by filmmakers to craft compelling horror experiences. As the demand for thrilling content continues to grow, we can expect to see even more innovative and terrifying horror movies emerge from the Telugu film industry. This study provides insights into the current state of the horror genre in Telugu cinema, highlighting the trends, themes, and creative approaches that are shaping the industry.

Author: [Your Name/Institution] Publication Date: April 2026 Subject: Regional Cinema Studies / Horror Genre Analysis