Released in 2024, Shaitaan is a Hindi-language supernatural thriller directed by Vikas Bahl, featuring a stellar cast including Ajay Devgn, R. Madhavan, and Jyotika. The film delves into the chilling tale of a family grappling with dark forces, blending elements of horror and suspense.
Plot Overview
Kabir Rishi (Ajay Devgn), a chartered accountant, and his wife Jyoti (Jyotika) reside in Dehradun, Uttarakhand, with their children, Janhvi and Dhruv. Seeking a respite from their routine, the family plans a trip to their secluded farmhouse in the hills. During their journey, they encounter Vanraj Kashyap (R. Madhavan), an enigmatic man who offers Janhvi a laddu in exchange for her paratha. After consuming the laddu, Janhvi begins to experience unsettling sensations.
Upon reaching the farmhouse, the family attempts to unwind. Jyoti places her wet phone in a rice box to dry and heads to the terrace, where she unexpectedly finds Vanraj standing at the door. Despite the family’s discomfort, Janhvi invites Vanraj in, and he claims his phone’s battery is dead. His presence unsettles the family, prompting Jyoti to suggest he leave. Vanraj engages Janhvi in conversations about her boyfriend and college life, further disturbing the family dynamic.
The situation escalates when Vanraj orders Janhvi to threaten Dhruv on the swing, causing him distress. Kabir intervenes, but Vanraj asserts his control over Janhvi, revealing he has hypnotized her through black magic, compelling her to obey his commands. He instructs Janhvi to perform various disturbing actions, including breaking phones, consuming dry tea leaves, and slapping her father.
As Vanraj’s demands become increasingly sinister, he orders Janhvi to break Dhruv’s head. The family attempts to resist, but Vanraj’s influence over Janhvi remains unyielding. He threatens to harm Janhvi if they seek help, forcing the family into a corner.
In a desperate bid to protect their children, Kabir and Jyoti reluctantly permit Vanraj to take Janhvi with him. However, Kabir secretly tracks them, discovering that Vanraj has kept 108 other girls similarly hypnotized. Vanraj plans to sacrifice them in a ritual to gain the power to control others at will, believing humans do not deserve free will.
Kabir confronts Vanraj, disrupting the ritual and freeing the other girls by playing a recording of Vanraj’s voice declaring their freedom. The family reunites, and the police inform them that Vanraj has gone missing. A year later, Kabir is seen holding Vanraj captive, mocking him for his quest for power and asserting his dominance, declaring that true power comes from parents’ unwavering love and protection for their children.
Cast and Performances
- Ajay Devgn as Kabir Rishi: Portrays the protective father determined to save his daughter from the supernatural threat.
- R. Madhavan as Vanraj Kashyap: Delivers a compelling performance as the antagonist, adding depth to the film’s tension.
- Jyotika as Jyoti Rishi: Makes a notable return to Hindi cinema after 25 years, portraying the mother caught in the family’s turmoil.
Critical Reception
Upon its theatrical release on March 8, 2024, Shaitaan received mixed reviews from critics. While some praised the performances and atmospheric tension, others criticized the film’s narrative and pacing. The film grossed over ₹211 crore worldwide, making it the fifth highest-grossing Hindi film of 2024 and the second highest-grossing Indian horror film of all time.
Where to Watch
Shaitaan is available for streaming on Netflix.
