Chethabadi: A Film Inspired by Real Events, Exploring the Dark World of Banamathi
Sri Sharada Ramana Creations is set to present a unique cinematic experience with their upcoming film "Chethabadi," directed by the debutant Suryas and produced by Nanda Kishore. What sets "Chethabadi" apart is its foundation in real-life incidents, offering a gripping narrative woven around the mysterious and frightening world of banamathi (a colloquial term for black magic).
Director Suryas delves deep into the origins of Chethabadi (black magic/witchcraft), describing it as an ancient art form that emerged in India during the 16th century. He explains, "Chethabadi is a powerful practice that harnesses evil energies to sabotage unity and, at its worst, take lives. While numerous films have depicted its horrors, 'Chethabadi' dares to showcase this age-old craft from a new perspective. One intriguing element we explore is 'hair energy'—the belief that every part of the body, even our hair, contains life-force."
The film's storyline takes inspiration from a chilling real incident in 1953 that unfolded in the remote village of Girida. It further references the dense and almost impenetrable bamboo forests of Seeleru, dating back two centuries, which become the setting for an unsettling ritual. "Imagine performing a 'banamathi' pooja with a live black chicken on Amavasya night in such eerie conditions—these are the haunting realities our film brings to life," says Suryas.
Producer Nanda Kishore elaborates on the social context, noting, "In earlier times, the mere fear of banamathi (black magic) caused widespread political, social, and psychological turmoil. 'Chethabadi' aims to realistically depict how cunning individuals took advantage of the public's fear and superstition for their own gain."
Chethabadi promises to be a hard-hitting supernatural thriller that illuminates the psychological manipulation and social consequences surrounding black magic practices, all set against the evocative and shadowy backdrop of rural India. By grounding its plot in true events and focusing on the unspoken terrors of banamathi, the film is poised to push the boundaries of the horror genre and leave a lasting impact on audiences.
Chethabadi—where real incidents and ancient sorcery intertwine to tell a story that is as chilling as it is thought-provoking.
