Released theatrically in India on January 30, 2026, Mayasabha is a moody Hindi fantasy-thriller written and directed by Rahi Anil Barve, best known for the cult classic Tumbbad.
Starring Jaaved Jaaferi, Mohammad Samad, and Veena Jamkar, the film unfolds almost entirely inside a decaying Mumbai theatre, over the course of a single night.
Produced by Astonia Media and Entertainment, The Third Eye Kreatives, and Zirkon Films, Mayasabha is a long-gestating project whose production began after Tumbbad’s success and finally reached audiences years later.
The Story: One Theatre, Hidden Gold, and a Night of Reckoning
At the heart of Mayasabha is Parmeshwar Khanna (Jaaved Jaaferi) — a once-powerful film producer who launched many stars but was ultimately betrayed by the very people he trusted.
Years ago, Khanna married an actress he introduced to cinema, only to be abandoned when she eloped with another actor — taking all his money with her.
Now, the only thing left in his life is a crumbling, abandoned theatre no one visits anymore.
One stormy night, the silence of the theatre is broken when two intruders enter, searching for a rumored hidden treasure — gold believed to be concealed somewhere inside the building.
As Khanna, his son, and the intruders clash:
- lies begin to multiply
- old wounds resurface
- greed overrides morality
- and the theatre itself feels alive, watching everything unfold
What starts as a hunt for gold slowly turns into a psychological game of deception, regret, and survival — where the past refuses to stay buried.
What Works in the Movie
🟢 Rahi Anil Barve’s Atmospheric Direction
Barve once again proves his mastery over mood and symbolism. The theatre becomes a character — dark, echoing, and haunted by memory.
🟢 Jaaved Jaaferi’s Darkest Performance
Far removed from comedy, Jaaved delivers a restrained, bitter, and deeply wounded portrayal of a man crushed by betrayal.
🟢 Single-Location Tension
The confined setting heightens suspense, making every sound, shadow, and movement feel dangerous.
🟢 Fantasy Elements Used Subtly
Rather than overt horror, the film uses fantasy as metaphor — greed, illusion (maya), and moral decay.
🟢 Strong Visual Language
Lighting, silence, and camera movement replace exposition, trusting the audience to read between frames.
What Could Have Been Better
🔴 Slow, Deliberate Pace
The film unfolds patiently, which may not appeal to viewers expecting fast-paced thrills.
🔴 Ambiguous Narrative
Some plot elements remain intentionally open-ended, which could frustrate audiences seeking clear answers.
🔴 Limited Commercial Appeal
This is niche, arthouse cinema — not mainstream entertainment.
Star Cast and Crew
Director & Writer: Rahi Anil Barve
Production: Astonia Media and Entertainment, The Third Eye Kreatives, Zirkon Films
Main Cast:
- Jaaved Jaaferi — Parmeshwar Khanna, a broken producer haunted by betrayal
- Mohammad Samad — impactful and unsettling in a key role
- Veena Jamkar — adds emotional weight and mystery
Where to Watch 🎬
FAQs
Q: Is Mayasabha connected to Tumbbad?
No — but it shares a similar atmospheric tone and thematic depth due to the same director.
Q: What genre is the movie?
Fantasy-thriller with strong psychological and symbolic elements.
Q: Is it horror?
Not traditional horror — it relies more on tension, dread, and atmosphere.
Q: What is the runtime?
Approximately 1 hour 39 minutes.
Q: Is the movie family-friendly?
Not ideal for children due to dark themes and intense moments.
Final Verdict
Mayasabha (2025) is a slow-burn, intellectually rich fantasy thriller that explores greed, illusion, and the ghosts of personal failure. With Rahi Anil Barve’s signature atmospheric storytelling and Jaaved Jaaferi’s powerful dramatic turn, the film rewards patient viewers who enjoy layered, symbolic cinema.
If you appreciate arthouse thrillers, single-location psychological dramas, or films that trust silence and mood over exposition, Mayasabha is well worth your time.
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