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For over three decades, Kajol has ruled Bollywood hearts with endearing roles in films like Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, and more recently, the Netflix thriller Do Patti. But on June 27, 2025, the actress is set to break new ground in the mythological horror arena with Maa, directed by Vishal Furia of Lapachhapi and Chhorii fame.
In Maa, Kajol portrays a fiercely protective mother locked in a cosmic battle between light and darkness—melding mythological lore and spine-chilling suspense to reveal a side audience haven’t seen before.
The Premise: Myth Meets Horror
Set in the remote village of Chandrapur, Maa centers on a mother (Kajol) who must defend her daughter from a malevolent daitya intent on sacrifice. Overlaying this conflict are divine forces, symbolizing the timeless struggle of good vs evil—a narrative that lends the film its emotional and mythic backbone.
The motion poster, which Kajol shared on Instagram, artfully captures her holding a child while flanked by demonic and divine visages. The chilling tagline: “Hell is here… so is the Goddess!”, signals a high-stakes battle from the very outset.
🎬 Behind the Scenes: Powerhouse Cast & Crew
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Director: Vishal Furia—renowned for his gritty horror work—brings proven expertise in atmospherics and psychological tension.
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Screenwriter: Saiwyn Quadras, whose portfolio includes intense dramas like Neerja and Mary Kom.
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Producers: Kajol’s husband, Ajay Devgn, along with Jyoti Deshpande and Kumar Mangat Pathak under the banners of Devgn Films and Jio Studios
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Supporting cast: Includes Ronit Roy, Indraneil Sengupta, and Kherin Sharma, all known for their commanding screen presence
Reports indicate that Ajay Devgn suggested additional action sequences after viewing early footage—bringing onboard action director RP Yadav, known for ensuring horror and emotional beats are married with visceral realism.
👩👧 A Role That Hits Close to Home
Kajol noted that her kids, Nysa and Yug, find her emotional depth overwhelming—they prefer watching lighter films like their father’s Golmaal series instead. This personal tidbit adds a charming contrast to her onscreen ferocity, highlighting the emotional stakes she’s bringing to Maa.
Interestingly, social media reactions have been mixed. A Reddit user commented:
“Hoping people who used to crib about bollywood not giving 90s actress solo movies actually go to theatres to show their support”
Another noted skepticism toward prosthetics:
“Why is Bollywood afraid of prosthetics or makeup for monsters? Visuals are not looking good at all.”
These reactions reflect both excitement and caution—something Kajol and the makers will hope to address post-release.
Genre Shift: Kajol’s Most Intense Role Yet
Kajol herself described this part as one of her strongest and most demanding yet. In her pilgrimage to Kolkata’s Dakshineswar Kali Temple, she sought blessings and spoke of channeling divine strength into her performance—suggesting this role carries personal resonance
Her choice to forgo iconic rom-com sequels, like DDLJ, in favor of breaking new narrative ground showcases her commitment to meaningful, character-driven roles.
What’s Next? Release & Box Office Outlook
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Theatrical release: June 27, 2025, across Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and Bengali markets—broadening its reach
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Streaming: Exclusive post-cinema release on Netflix—a strategic move tapping into digital audiences.
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Competition: It goes head-to-head with the 4K re-release of Umrao Jaan (a Rekha classic) under PVR’s Timeless Classics initiative—a clash of eras and genres at the box office.
Final Take: Bold, Brave & ‘Magnificent
Kajol’s decision to headline a mythological horror thriller is emblematic of her evolving artistic ethos—prioritizing depth, intensity, and experimentation over formula. Maa combines her emotional legacy with Furia’s horror craftsmanship, set against a backdrop of cultural mythology.
If Kajol can balance maternal tenderness with terrifying dread, deliver honest performances, and clinicsackle any visual skepticism, Maa has the potential to reimagine Bollywood horror—and redefine Kajol’s cinematic persona in one striking blow.
