“Munjya” A New Contender in the Desi Horror Universe

Before diving into the film we need to know the connection between "Stree," "Munjya," and "Bhediya." Is there any connection between all the three?

Earlier, a film that emerged from a Marathi background and transformed Indian cinema is "Tumbbad.” It was an incredible horror and fantasy film that shot straight to number one.

Now, another Bollywood Movie from the same Marathi culture, "Munjya," is here to shine.

But the question is Will it repeat the magic of "Tumbbad," or will Bollywood disappoint the audience again? Let's talk in detail about "Munjya". It has a solid pressure to please horror fans because we have dreamed of an entire desi horror universe.

I'll give you an honest answer—100% there is a solid connection between these three films. Before reaching to the point, you need to understand "Munjya" appropriately.

Okay, answer honestly.. Do you believe in aliens?

Yes or no?

Well, I think you probably do because science will find proof of them. So, what's the problem in believing in demons, especially when there's proof of their existence?

Here, we will go heart-to-heart about Munjya movie.

The Story of Munjya ‘The Demon’

"Munjya" does not tell the tale of a female witch. It unfolds the narrative of beings like Brahmarakshas, demonic entities trapped in a cycle of existence due to past sins.

Do you know about them?

Brahmarakshas are demons who are cursed to never get liberation from the cycle of life and death. It is due to sins committed at a young age. You wouldn't believe it; this boy can be called the brand ambassador of ghosts and spirits 70 years ago.

In a dark forest, in front of a strange tree, a boy practices black magic at night. Black magic is extremely powerful but it comes with a condition: to gain something, you must lose something.

Munjya's life's mission is to get married to Munni. He doesn't know what it’s going to take in return. But that's the past. A boy is returning to his village with family, or it can be said that his village is calling him.

In this quiet village by the sea, a body with a twisted neck is found, something no human can do. Have you guessed? Yes it’s Munjya, who is making a comeback. he was hanging upside down on that same scary tree for the past 70 years.

The crucial question is, why Munjya has returned. Another more interesting question is, why can only this boy see him? Don't take it lightly. The boy who used black magic as a child and turned from human to demon can easily reach your home. Look out all over.. Be Aware!!

Here's my advice for those insisting on booking tickets thinking "Munjya" is a proper horror film. Don’t do it. Munjya’s ghost won't scare you one bit, but it will teach you why ghosts exist and how they are created. The film focuses more on detailing the ghost’s backstory rather than showcasing the horror part. This is not a perfect film for a family comedy night.

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Who should watch Munjya?

The topic of the film is somewhat childish and people not find it interesting. . "Munjya" pretends to be a proper horror-comedy, reminding 90% of people of "Stree." The tagline of "Stree" movie was "Men will feel pain," indicating a better-quality topic. "Munjya" is just the story of one character. "Stree" was mature in its storytelling, while "Munjya" is its exact opposite. It resembles a grandmother’s bedtime story meant to scare children. Now, who would be scared by that?

So, who should watch this film? It’s for anyone who wants to see something new in Bollywood. You must buy a ticket. Maddock films don’t just make movies; they innovate. They don’t remake old stories but create fresh ones, like "Stree," "Bhediya," "Hindi Medium," and now "Munjya."

When you go home after watching "Munjya," you don't know if you liked it or not. You will surely feel that you watched something different.

Do not expect "Tumbbad" level of magic from this one, set your expectations low. "Munjya" is a one-time watch that’s good for passing time. If you want to watch real horror, you can watch "Pari" at home.

The connection between Stree, Bhediya and Munjya?

As I promised that I will reveal the connection between "Stree," "Bhediya," and "Munjya." Here’s a slight spoiler hint, but don’t worry, it won't discloses much about the films.

In my perception, the common thing among these films in the horror universe. They all revolve around incomplete love stories and end with open endings.

Trust me, "Stree 2" will be the first film where characters from different movies will meet in a crossover. This has already been hinted at in the climax of "Bhediya," but that was just a start. Anyone from any movie can be there and Munjya can become a proper villain in horror universe.

I am giving three stars out of five to the film.

Firstly, it brings a new concept and trying something different without taking the shortcut of copying. Secondly, it has surely connected the public to the story with real-life elements like Brahmarakshas and black magic.

Another best part of the movie was excellent visuals, especially the forest and a tree scene with Abhay’s strong acting.

Now, you’ll need to search for Sharvari in the film as she rarely got the screen time.  In trying to match "Stree," Munjya is not a proper horror movie and not even a comedy suitable for anyone.

Lastly, they missed a huge chance to properly introduce people to the horror universe. It's all in their minds but should have been brought to the screen.

So, for theatres, "Munjya" is not a perfect theatre movie for me, but it will surely turn green on OTT. If the tickets are cheap, you can book them during weekends with friends..

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FAQs

Q: What is "Munjya" about?

A:"Munjya" is a Marathi-origin horror-comedy film that revolves around the legend of a Brahmarakshas named Munjya. Cursed Munjya returns after 70 years to haunt a village, with only one boy will see him. The film explores themes of black magic, demons, and the consequences of past sins.

Q: Is "Munjya" a proper horror film?                

A: No, "Munjya" leans more towards a horror-comedy genre rather than a pure horror film. It focuses heavily on Munjya's backstory and the mythology surrounding him, rather than on jump scares or intense horror sequences.

Q: Who should watch "Munjya"?

A: "MunjYa" is recommended for those interested in unique storytelling within Bollywood. It offers a fresh take on supernatural elements with a cultural twist. The viewers expecting scares "Tumbbad" will be disappointed, as the emphasis is more on narrative and folklore.

Q: What is the connection between "Stree," "Bhediya," and "Munjya"?

A: All three films "Stree," "Bhediya," and "Munjya" are part of a developing desi horror universe. They share mutual themes like unfinished love stories and open-ended conclusions. There are hints of a crossover among characters in future sequels, with "Stree 2" uniting characters from these films.