Not a conventional horror film, Awe is a genre-bending masterpiece. Set largely in a single restaurant, the film interweaves multiple stories, including one involving a possessed girl and a vengeful spirit. Its eerie atmosphere, unexpected twists, and commentary on mental health make it one of the most unique horror experiences in Telugu cinema. The climax is genuinely unsettling.
Directed by debutant Ravi Nandireddy, Maya stars Nayanthara and Aari Arujunan. The story follows a young couple who move into a new apartment, only to realize it’s haunted by a terrifying spirit connected to the landlady’s dark past. The film relies on atmospheric tension, slow-burn dread, and minimal jump scares. It was a critical and commercial success, proving Telugu audiences embrace quality horror.
While not a full-length feature, this recent short film (available on OTT) has garnered praise for its folk horror elements set in rural Telangana. It uses local legends, eerie visuals, and a minimalist narrative to create dread. It signals a new direction for Telugu horror — rooted in folklore rather than urban legends.