Bandh Darwaza (transl. Closed Door) is a 1990 Indian Hindi-language horror film released in 1990. Directed by Tulsi Ramsay and Shyam Ramsay, the movie is part of the Ramsay Brothers' legacy of horror films that became synonymous with Indian horror cinema in the 1980s and 1990s.
Plot[]
The story revolves around the legend of a vampire named Neola, who resides in a castle in Transylvania. Neola, (portrayed by actor Hashmat Khan) strikes a deal with the Devil to prolong his life but is cursed to remain immortal unless he can find a woman with a specific birthmark on her body. He believes that by sacrificing this woman, he can break the curse and become mortal again.
The narrative unfolds when Neola's quest brings him to India, where he encounters the young couple, Ajay (portrayed by Kunickaa Sadanand) and Reshma (played by Manjeet Kullar). Reshma possesses the birthmark that Neola seeks. However, Ajay and Reshma are unaware of the danger lurking in their midst.
As Neola sets his sights on Reshma, Ajay seeks the help of a tantrik (a practitioner of tantra, a spiritual tradition in Hinduism) named Baba, portrayed by actor Vijayendra Ghatge, to protect his wife from the malevolent vampire. The tantrik advises Ajay to keep Reshma safe until the eclipse passes, which will weaken Neola's powers and render him vulnerable.
However, Neola, relentless in his pursuit, employs various supernatural forces to thwart Ajay's efforts and capture Reshma. The narrative intensifies as Ajay engages in a battle of wits and courage against the powerful vampire, determined to save his beloved wife from Neola's clutches.
Filled with elements of suspense, eerie atmospheres, and supernatural occurrences, "Bandh Darwaza" combines traditional Indian folklore with Western horror tropes to create a unique cinematic experience. The film's haunting musical score and atmospheric cinematography further enhance its chilling narrative, captivating audiences with its blend of fright and intrigue.
Despite its modest production values, "Bandh Darwaza" remains a beloved cult classic in Indian horror cinema, cherished by fans for its nostalgic appeal and memorable characters. It stands as a testament to the Ramsay Brothers' enduring legacy as pioneers of the horror genre in India, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of Indian cinema.
Cast[]
- Manjeet Kullar as Sapna
- Hashmat Khan as Kumar
- Kunika as Kamya
- Aruna Irani as dayan Mahua
- Anita Sareen as Bhanu
- Vijayendra Ghatge as Thakur Pratap Singh
- Raza Murad as evil priest Shaitan Pujari
- Anirudh Agarwal as Nevla
- Satish Kaul as Anand
- Beena Banerjee as Thakurayan Lajo
- Johnny Lever as Gopi, Thakur's servant
- Shayamalee as the strange woman of Kali Pahari
- Jack Gaud as Neola's devotee
- Ashalata Wabgaonkar as Kumar's mother
- Karunakar Pathak
- Gurinder Kohli
- Rajni Bala