Aditya Sarpotdar Opens Up About ‘Thamma’: Item Song Controversy, Stree Universe Connection & His Vision for Indian Horror Cinema

Director Aditya Sarpotdar, known for redefining Indian horror with Munjya and Thamma, has once again found himself in the center of cinematic conversation. His latest film Thamma, starring Ayushmann Khurrana and Rashmika Mandanna, has drawn both acclaim and criticism — particularly for featuring three item songs in what many expected to be a dark folklore-based horror film.

Sarpotdar, in his series of interviews with The Times of India, News18, and The Indian Express, has responded to the backlash, addressed speculation about casting in future projects, and even hinted at his broader plan for an Indian horror cinematic universe akin to the “Stree Universe.”

The Controversy: Three Item Songs in a Horror Film

The first wave of criticism came from audiences who questioned why a film rooted in Indian folklore and horror mythology needed “three item numbers.” Critics suggested that the inclusion of such songs diluted the eerie atmosphere of Thamma.

Responding to this, Sarpotdar told News18:

“It’s the same audience who loved ‘Aaj Ki Raat’ or ‘Taras’—now suddenly it’s an issue. Music has always been part of our cinema’s DNA, and these songs serve the narrative in their own way.”

He elaborated that the songs were strategically placed to maintain mass appeal and connect folklore storytelling with modern cinematic rhythm. “If a film is made for the big screen, it must entertain across levels,” he added.

Shah Rukh Khan as the Iron Man of Horror Universe?

In an interview with The Indian Express, Sarpotdar made a statement that caught everyone’s attention —

“If Bollywood ever builds a proper horror universe, Shah Rukh Khan could be its Iron Man.”

He meant that SRK’s mass appeal, intensity, and versatility could help anchor a multi-film universe much like Robert Downey Jr. did for Marvel. It was a nod to how Indian horror could evolve — not just as isolated spooky tales but as interconnected mythological stories forming a cinematic world.

Defending the Vision: “Thamma and Lokah Are Poles Apart”

The director also addressed frequent comparisons between Thamma and Lokah Chapter 1, both of which belong to the new wave of Hindi horror. Speaking to Bollywood Hungama, he clarified:

“Just because there’s a vampire or supernatural creature, people start comparing. Thamma is rooted in folklore; Lokah is cosmic horror. They are poles apart.”

He further expressed frustration over how quickly audiences “love pulling down Hindi films,” emphasizing that Thamma aimed to blend cultural authenticity with mainstream spectacle — a balance often misinterpreted as compromise.

Box Office Success and Audience Response

Despite polarizing opinions, Thamma has performed strongly at the box office, marking another win for Maddock Films’ horror slate. Sarpotdar described the film’s performance as “just the beginning” of something larger.

Speaking to Bollywood Life, he said:

“The film’s success shows that Indian audiences are ready for something new. Every film must justify its budget, yes, but it must also open doors for more experimental storytelling.”

Addressing Casting Rumors: Pratibha Ranta vs Sharvari Wagh

Recent speculation that Pratibha Ranta replaced Sharvari Wagh in Maha Munjya (a sequel in the Maddock Horror Comedy Universe) made headlines. However, Sarpotdar was quick to set the record straight.

In conversation with Moneycontrol, he clarified:

“Sharvari remains part of the MHCU. Pratibha is not replacing her — these are two different projects. Let’s not create drama where there isn’t any.”

He also praised Maddock Films for their commitment to “building an interconnected cinematic horror universe rooted in Indian culture.”

Carrying Forward a 100-Year Legacy

In an insightful profile by The Free Press Journal, Sarpotdar reflected on his family’s century-old contribution to Indian cinema. Coming from a long line of filmmakers, he considers his work not merely as entertainment but as a modern continuation of classic storytelling traditions.

“Cinema is in my blood. My goal is to make Indian folklore global — to tell our stories with the same production value and pride as Western mythologies.”

Building the Indian Horror Universe

Sarpotdar hinted that Thamma is only one chapter in a larger vision. Collaborating closely with Maddock Films, he teased upcoming spin-offs and sequels tied to the Stree and Munjya universe, creating what fans now call the MHCU (Maddock Horror Comedy Universe).

In his words to Times Now:

“We’re not copying Hollywood. We’re creating an Indian version of horror that merges mythology, humor, and humanity. The goal is to make audiences scared and entertained — in the same breath.”

Conclusion: Aditya Sarpotdar’s Balancing Act

Aditya Sarpotdar’s Thamma may have sparked debate, but it has undeniably reshaped conversations around Indian horror cinema. His unapologetic mix of folklore, music, and mainstream appeal reveals a director unafraid to experiment — even if it divides opinion.

As he puts it,

“If you play safe, you make forgettable films. If you take risks, you create legacies.”

With Thamma’s success and MHCU’s continued expansion, Sarpotdar stands poised as the architect of India’s first true horror cinematic universe, where myth meets modernity — and fear meets fun.