Watch Anjaan: Rural Myths

Anjaan: Rural Myths is a Hindi language horror anthology series that premiered on the streaming platform Viu in 2018. The show features a mix of standalone episodes and interconnected story arcs, all set in rural India and revolving around local myths and legends.

Each episode of Anjaan: Rural Myths features a new cast of characters and a new folk tale to explore. The first episode, for example, is titled "The Witch's Curse" and focuses on a rural family plagued by a mysterious illness after they move into a house that was once home to a powerful witch. Other episodes include "The Ghost in the Garden," in which a young girl is haunted by the spirit of her deceased mother, and "The Blood Moon," in which a group of travelers encounter a werewolf while stranded in the woods.

One of the strengths of Anjaan: Rural Myths is its dedication to incorporating genuine Indian folklore and traditions into its storytelling. Several episodes are based on popular myths and legends from various regions of India, including the story of the chudail, a vengeful female spirit in North Indian folklore, and the legend of the asura, a humanoid demon from Hindu mythology. By grounding its horror in these familiar tales, the show is able to create a sense of authenticity and cultural resonance that sets it apart from Western-centric horror offerings.

Another notable aspect of Anjaan: Rural Myths is its visual style. The show's cinematography is often striking, making effective use of the rural Indian locations to create an eerie, atmospheric ambiance. The show also leans heavily on practical effects and makeup, rather than relying solely on CGI, which helps to give the horror elements a tangible, tactile quality. Additionally, the show's use of color and lighting is frequently striking, with moody blues and purples often dominating the screen during tense or supernatural moments.

The performances in Anjaan: Rural Myths are generally strong, with a mix of veteran actors and relative newcomers populating the various episodes. Parag Chadha, who appears in several episodes, is a standout, bringing a naturalism and understated depth to his roles. Sheetal Maulik and Shamin Mannan, who also appear in multiple episodes, are likewise reliable performers, adept at conveying both fear and empathy as the situations demand.

Overall, Anjaan: Rural Myths is an engaging and well-crafted entry in the horror anthology genre. Its commitment to showcasing Indian myths and traditions, paired with its striking visual style and effective use of practical effects, make it a must-watch for fans of horror and Indian cinema alike.