Tumbbad, when it was first released in 2018, barely made a ripple at the box office, although it was highly appreciated by those who watched it. However, the unique fusion of haunting visuals and deeply ingrained mythologies that characterized the motion picture rapidly drove it out of cinemas and into total obscurity since other more conventional blockbusters took precedence. By chance, however, Tumbbad got another chance via the COVID-19 pandemic and the rise of OTT platforms.
The Indian audiences had already been hooked on digital streaming during lockdown hence Tumbbad was rediscovered. Consequently, the film started gaining popularity thus winning hearts that were indifferent in its theatrical release days. Even though this belated recognition arrived late, it is well worth its compliment.
A film that was before its time, Tumbbad was limited to a few theaters and hence failed to realize its full market potential. This wasn’t only the case with Tumbbad; films such as Laila Majnu and Delhi Belly also suffered because the audience was not ready for such experimental cinema then.
However, things have now changed. In particular, the taste of viewers in unconventional and experimental movies has grown up. Consequently, a cult-like following of Tumbbad has been developed over six years majorly through word-of-mouth. Its dark and atmospheric representation which was not there earlier in Indian cinema had resonance among viewers who looked for more than Bollywood’s usual fare.
Besides, come August 30th and Tumbbad will be making a comeback in keeping with an emerging trend of re-releases. Early excitement suggests this cult classic is headed for an exciting run on the big screen with a loyal fan base eager to welcome it back to cinemas. Whether it will succeed at the box office or not is still up in the air; however one thing remains undeniable: finally, after all these years, Tumbbad has earned its due respect from everyone.
