Discover The Real Village That Inspired The Horror Movie 'Tumbbad'

Real Village That Inspired the Movie 'Tumbbad'

The 2018 Indian horror film Tumbbad took audiences on a thrilling journey into the world of mythology, greed, and a cursed village. Known for its rich storytelling and striking visuals, the movie left a lasting impression on viewers, especially with its eerie portrayal of the village where the story unfolds. But what many may not know is that Tumbbad is based on a real place, and the village that inspired the film has its own fascinating history.

The Mythical Roots of Tumbbad

Tumbbad is set in a small village in rural Maharashtra during the early 20th century, where the protagonist, Vinayak Rao, embarks on a quest to uncover a hidden treasure guarded by an ancient god. The story intertwines elements of Indian mythology, particularly the legend of Hastar, a forgotten deity cursed for his greed. The film’s dark and haunting atmosphere, combined with the heavy monsoons and dilapidated setting, adds to the sense of dread that permeates the narrative.

While the supernatural elements are fictional, the village of Tumbbad is very real. Located in the coastal Konkan region of Maharashtra, the actual village served as the inspiration for the filmmakers due to its mysterious and remote character. Although the real Tumbbad may not be home to cursed gods or hidden treasures, its secluded nature and deep-rooted folklore made it the perfect backdrop for the film’s eerie atmosphere.

The Real Village of Tumbbad

Tumbbad, the village, is relatively unknown and rarely featured in tourist guides, which only adds to its allure. Nestled amid dense forests, winding roads, and the constant drizzle of the region’s heavy monsoon rains, the village is a peaceful but isolated community. This isolation is what first intrigued the filmmakers when they scouted locations for the movie.

The region’s architecture, with its old, crumbling houses, lends itself perfectly to the movie's historical setting. The filmmakers wanted to capture the essence of rural India during colonial times, and Tumbbad’s untouched landscape made it the ideal location to bring that vision to life. Additionally, the unpredictable weather, particularly the torrential downpours, played a significant role in enhancing the haunting ambiance of the film.

Folk Tales and Local Beliefs

The Konkan region, where Tumbbad is located, is steeped in folklore and mythological tales. Many villages in this area are known for their superstitions and belief in the supernatural. These stories, passed down through generations, often include tales of gods, demons, and spirits haunting ancient temples or forests. This rich cultural backdrop inspired the creators of Tumbbad to craft a narrative that merges folklore with horror, bringing to life a village seemingly cursed by its own history.

While the village of Tumbbad may not have a direct connection to the legend of Hastar, the local culture’s deep connection to myths and the supernatural made it a fitting location for the story’s themes. The locals, who are accustomed to living with such stories, welcomed the film crew and were excited to see their village portrayed on the big screen.

Foods To Try

Tumbbad's diverse cuisine, inspired by local farms and forest ingredients, offers an authentic taste of rural Maharashtra. A staple in the village is the traditional meal of bhakri, a flatbread made from millet or jowar, served with pithla, a gram flour curry that highlights the simplicity and flavor of regional cooking. Vangyache bharit, a dish of roasted and mashed eggplant cooked with spices and paired with bhakri, is known for its hearty, earthy taste. Another must-try is bharleli vangi, a Maharashtrian specialty of stuffed eggplants simmered in a spicy coconut-based gravy. For dessert, modak, a rice flour dumpling filled with coconut and jaggery, is a treat, especially during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival.

The Impact of the Film

Since the release of Tumbbad, there has been growing interest in the real village, with some people seeking to visit the location that inspired the film. However, Tumbbad remains a relatively untouched and quiet place, far removed from the bustling tourist destinations of Maharashtra. While it may not boast the same eerie atmosphere as seen in the film, its natural beauty, historic architecture, and connection to folklore make it a compelling destination for those intrigued by the movie. The film also helped shine a light on the rich tapestry of Indian mythology and folklore that has often remained untapped by mainstream cinema. By exploring the themes of greed, guilt, and divine punishment within the context of rural India, Tumbbad created a unique narrative that stood out in the horror genre, both in India and internationally.

Conclusion

The real village of Tumbbad may not be as terrifying as its on-screen counterpart, but it certainly carries the same air of mystery and intrigue that inspired the filmmakers. Rooted in a region filled with folklore, myths, and a deep connection to the supernatural, the village is a perfect example of how location can breathe life into storytelling. For fans of the movie, exploring the real Tumbbad is a chance to step into the world that inspired one of India’s most iconic folk horror films.