Exploring the Success of Bollywood's Cult Horror Classic 'Purana Mandir'
A Timeless Horror Classic
In the realm of Bollywood horror films, a particular movie from 41 years ago stands out for its remarkable success. Despite receiving a B grade certification, this film managed to earn nearly 100 times its production budget upon release.
The Legacy of 'Purana Mandir'
The film in question is 'Purana Mandir', which debuted in 1984 under the direction of the Ramsay Brothers. Known for their contributions to the horror genre during the 1980s and 1990s, the Ramsay Brothers produced several low-budget films that achieved significant box office success.
Impressive Box Office Earnings
Reportedly, 'Purana Mandir' was created with a budget of just Rs 2.5 lakh, yet it grossed an impressive Rs 2.5 crore at the box office. The plot centers around a mansion that houses a century-old demon, which inadvertently breaks free. The film featured notable performances from Aarti Gupta, Mohnish Bahl, Anirudh Agarwal, and Puneet Issar, all of whom contributed to its popularity.
Ramsay Brothers' Horror Film Legacy
The Ramsay Brothers have a rich history of producing horror films that resonated with audiences. Their notable works include 'Darwaza' (1978), 'Veerana' (1988), 'Purani Haveli' (1989), 'Band Darwaza' (1990), and 'Samari' (1985). Anirudh Agarwal, who starred in 'Purani Haveli' as the devil Samari, has been a recurring figure in many of these films, further solidifying their legacy in the horror genre.