If you’re a fan of movies that blend spine-tingling scares with laugh-out-loud moments, South Indian cinema has mastered the horror comedy genre. These films, often rooted in folklore, supernatural twists, and quirky characters, have gained massive popularity across India, especially when dubbed in Hindi. From ghostly possessions to haunted houses, they deliver thrills without skimping on humor. Below, I’ve curated a list of the top 5 Hindi dubbed South Indian horror comedies based on their critical acclaim, box office success, and fan favorites. Whether you’re binge-watching on OTT or YouTube, these are sure to keep you entertained—and maybe a little spooked!
1. Chandramukhi (2005)
Directed by P. Vasu, this Tamil classic stars Rajinikanth as a psychiatrist unraveling the mystery of a haunted ancestral mansion, alongside Jyothika as the possessed woman and Nayanthara in a key role. The plot follows an NRI couple who move into a family home plagued by spirits, leading to chaotic and comedic encounters with the supernatural. Vadivelu’s comic timing adds hilarious relief amid the eerie atmosphere.
Why it’s top: It’s a landmark film that combines horror, drama, and comedy seamlessly, inspiring remakes and sequels. Available on Disney+ Hotstar. Widely praised for Rajinikanth’s charismatic performance, it’s a must-watch for its iconic songs and twists.
2. Kanchana (2011)
This Tamil hit, directed by and starring Raghava Lawrence, follows a man possessed by the spirit of a transgender woman seeking revenge. With Lakshmi Rai and Sarathkumar in supporting roles, the story mixes slapstick comedy from Kovai Sarala with intense horror sequences involving social issues like discrimination.
Why it’s top: Part of a successful franchise, it balances laughs with meaningful commentary, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking. The Hindi dub has been a massive success on TV and YouTube. Fans love the over-the-top action-comedy elements and its bold themes.
3. Anando Brahma (2017)
A Telugu gem directed by Mahi V. Raghav, featuring Taapsee Pannu as a ghost in a haunted house twist. The plot revolves around an NRI who sends four quirky individuals to spend a night in his supposedly haunted ancestral home to debunk rumors, only for hilarious reversals to ensue.
Why it’s top: It flips the typical ghost story on its head with clever humor and strong performances from the ensemble cast, including comedians like Srinivas Reddy. Stream it on Zee5 for a fresh take on the genre. Critics have hailed its innovative plot and rib-tickling second half.
4. Romancham (2023)
Directed by Jithu Madhavan, this Malayalam film stars Soubin Shahir and Arjun Ashokan as part of a group of bachelors whose Ouija board game summons a mischievous spirit, leading to chaotic and comedic attempts to handle the situation. Based on real-life-inspired events, it features a young cast including Sajin Gopu and Siju Sunny.
Why it’s top: Its relatable bromance and escalating absurdity make it a standout modern horror comedy. Available in Hindi on Disney+ Hotstar, it’s perfect for a light-hearted scare session. The film’s blockbuster status in Malayalam and positive reviews for its humor have made it a recent favorite.
5. Pizza (2012)
Karthik Subbaraj’s directorial debut in Tamil stars Vijay Sethupathi as a pizza delivery boy who gets trapped in a nightmarish bungalow filled with secrets, alongside Remya Nambeesan. What starts as a routine delivery spirals into a mix of horror, thriller, and dark comedy.
Why it’s top: Known for its gripping twists and Sethupathi’s breakout performance, it redefined low-budget horror comedies in South cinema. The Hindi dub is easily found on platforms like YouTube or Prime Video. It’s acclaimed for its suspenseful narrative that keeps you guessing till the end.
These movies showcase the diversity of South Indian storytelling, where horror isn’t just about jumpscares—it’s about clever plots, cultural nuances, and plenty of laughs. If you’re new to the genre, start with Chandramukhi for a classic vibe or Romancham for something fresh. Grab some popcorn (or pizza!), dim the lights, and dive in. What’s your favorite from the list? Let me know in the comments!