Performances That Stole the Spotlight in Indian Horror Movies

Horror isn’t just about jump scares and eerie soundtracks—it’s about the actors who breathe life into fear, making it visceral, human, and unforgettable. In recent years, several Indian actors have delivered performances that not only terrified audiences but also elevated the genre with depth, nuance, and raw emotion. They didn’t just play roles; they became the very embodiment of dread, leaving behind performances that haunt long after the screen fades to black.

Here are some standout portrayals that have reimagined horror in Indian cinema:

Amruta Subhash in Jarann [ZEE5]
Amruta Subhash once again proves why she’s one of the most versatile actors of her generation. In Jarann, her harrowing portrayal of a woman spiraling into psychological chaos keeps viewers on edge throughout. She blends fragility with sheer terror so authentically that you find yourself unable to look away—even when you want to.

R. Madhavan in Shaitaan [Netflix]
R. Madhavan stunned audiences with his menacing role in Shaitaan. Known for his charm, he flipped expectations with a chillingly restrained performance as a manipulative antagonist. His quiet menace and commanding presence made the fear hit harder, cementing his place as one of the most unexpected yet powerful villains in Indian horror.

 Kajol in Maa [Netflix]
Kajol brought her trademark intensity to Maa, delivering a performance layered with maternal warmth and unsettling dread. Her ability to embody love and terror in equal measure created a character that lingered long after the credits rolled. With Maa, Kajol showed that her artistry shines even in the genre’s darkest corners.

Soha Ali Khan in Chhori 2 [Amazon Prime Video]
In Chhori 2, Soha Ali Khan balanced strength and vulnerability with remarkable precision. Her grounded portrayal infused realism into the supernatural thriller, making the horror all the more believable. Her performance didn’t just support the story—it elevated it, making her one of the film’s most compelling elements.

Abhishek Banerjee in Stree 2 [Amazon Prime Video]
Already known as a scene-stealer, Abhishek Banerjee delivered yet another memorable performance in Stree 2. With his uncanny ability to switch between comic timing and spine-chilling tension, he brought both levity and terror to the narrative. His layered presence ensured his character stood out in a film already filled with supernatural thrills.

From blood-curdling screams to performances that linger like ghostly whispers, these actors have redefined horror in Indian cinema—proving that true terror is as much about talent as it is about the supernatural.