Maa review: After 'Stree' and 'Munjya', horror comedies have become the go-to genre in Bollywood. But Kajol’s 'Maa' breaks away from that herd. This isn’t your regular jump-scare fest, it’s a mythological horror drama set within the ‘Shaitaan Universe’ and attempts something refreshingly different. Backed by a gripping trailer, expectations were high and while 'Maa' doesn't fully live up to them, it does offer moments that make a theatrical experience worthwhile.
Maa plot
Set in the fictional town of Chandrapur, West Bengal, the story revolves around a family cursed to sacrifice every girl child born into it. Years later, Kajol’s character returns to the ancestral home with her daughter, only to be confronted by a terrifying evil that begins abducting young girls from the village — including her own. What follows is a mother’s relentless fight against a demonic force, unravelling the dark secret behind the family’s curse. The narrative unfolds slowly but steadily, with its mystery at the core.
How is Maa?
'Maa' is a well-structured film that maintains a decent pace. While it may not deliver the chills you'd expect from a horror flick, it keeps you engaged with its layered story and atmospheric setting. The twists and turns keep the intrigue alive, and the final 10 minutes loaded with emotion and visual flair stand out. The film isn’t as powerful as its trailer promised, but it isn’t a letdown either. What sets 'Maa' apart is its attempt to blend mythology with horror and though not entirely successful, it earns points for originality.
The horror element is subdued, so if you're a fan of intense scare-fests, this might not meet your expectations. But if you’re drawn to mythological tales and supernatural mysteries with emotional depth, 'Maa' will resonate. It’s the kind of film that feels sincere in its attempt to offer something different.
Performances
Kajol delivers a powerful performance, breathing life into her role as a determined mother. Her portrayal is raw, emotional, and deeply moving, especially in scenes where she’s fighting against all odds to protect her daughter. Ronit Roy is compelling as the antagonist, bringing an eerie stillness to his character. Indraneil Sengupta does justice to his role as Kajol’s husband.
Newcomer Surjasikha Das is a surprise package particularly memorable in a confrontation scene with Kajol. Her transformation from a modern girl to a rooted character adds depth. Gopal Singh also leaves a solid impact in his supporting role.
Writing & direction
Written by Ajit Jagtap, Aamil Keeyan Khan, and Saiwyn Quadras, and directed by Vishal Furia, 'Maa' is a commendable attempt at genre experimentation. That said, the horror angle needed more layering, and some questions remain unanswered, with a few scenes feeling disjointed or under-explained. The direction is competent but could have pushed the envelope further to elevate the film.
Final verdict
'Maa' is not a horror film in the traditional sense, but it’s an emotionally driven story of motherhood wrapped in mythological mystique. It’s a decent watch, especially for those looking for something beyond formulaic horror. While it may not shake you to your core, it does leave a lasting impression.