When one thinks of Bollywood horror movies, the first thing that comes to mind is a Ramsay flick with lose story lines, bad acting and terrible makeup that make them more comedy than horror. However, we’ve dug up a few Bollywood horror films that will make the hair on the back of your neck stand and have you walking cautiously in your home after dark.

1920 (2008)

This film has everything you’d need to make a horror film. A huge isolated mansion, a young couple, and mysterious characters all around. Yes, it checks off every cliché in the horror book, but what sets this movie apart is the sheer beauty of every shot and the artistic input in every scene. Watch this for guaranteed chills down your spine.

Raat (1992)

Considered one of RVG’s best work, this supernatural thriller doesn’t try too hard to be a horror film. The story picks up when a kitten is killed and its spirit rises and possesses the body of the leading lady. We assure you that you won’t look at cats the same way again.

Raaz (2002)

Sometimes, the best pieces of work come from inspiration. This holds true for Razz, inspired from Hollywood’s ‘What Lies Beneath’. This film set the tone for the barrage of horror films BipashaBasu would star in later. While Michelle Pfeiffer did a commendable job in the Hollywood original, Bipasha managed to match her in every way.

Ragini MMS (2011)

Another horror movie that takes inspiration from Hollywood. Unlike its sequel, this one didn’t have the presence of Sunny Leone, but that didn’t stop the crowds from filling up theatres nationwide. Full of thrills and chills, you can be sure of a few sleepless nights after watching this movie.

13B (2009)

This one comes packed with jump-off-your-seat moments. It doesn’t fall back on the usual devices of spooky background scores or unusual camera angles to bring the chills, but is backed by a strong script and an ensemble cast that delivers everything a horror movie fan looks for. This is definitely a much watch.

Mahal (1949)

We go a little back in time to perhaps Bollywood’s first horror movie. Mahal is based on the subject of reincarnation. A piece of cinematic history, Mahal has managed to scare the daylights of many a generation, with a great plot, brilliant acting and minimal special effects.

Shaapit (2010)

If you didn’t believe in curse sand evil spirits, you may change your mind after watching this. The third instalment in the Raaz trilogy, Shaapit is sure to send chills down your spine. Like every VikramBhatt film, what sets this film apart is the stylish treatment, ensuring that every scene leaves you wanting more.

EkThiDaayan (2013)

This film caught eyeballs for trying to do something new. It’s a cross between a traditional horror flick and a creepy and thought provoking paranormal thriller. This supernatural drama may seem unrealistic, but the cinematic treatment and the tight storyline more than makes up for it. Not to mention the almost natural portrayal of a daayan by Konkona Sen. You may want to watch this one with your lights on.

Darna Mana Hai (2003)

We start and end our list with RGV, who made horror films his forte. Let’s face it. It’s not the most innovative script. It’s not the cinematic excellence showcase. RGV manages to pack in 6 eerily creative short stories in one movie, each of them with their own twists and surprises. This one may not scare you, but it will leave you thinking about it for the days to come.