Baramulla: The Haunting New Thriller Unveiling Kashmir's Hidden Traumas

"Baramulla," a 2025 Hindi supernatural thriller directed by Aditya Suhas Jambhale and co-written with Aditya Dhar, has recently premiered on Netflix, capturing attention for its unique blend of horror, trauma, and socio-political commentary. Starring Manav Kaul, Neelofar Hamid, and Masoom Mumtaz Khan, the film explores the chilling story of a police officer investigating the mysterious disappearance of children in the snow-covered town of Baramulla, Kashmir.

The movie revolves around DSP Ridwan Shafi Sayyed (played by Manav Kaul), who is transferred to Baramulla to probe the case of six missing schoolboys. Initially believing militants are abducting the children to send them to terrorist training camps, Ridwan's investigation soon uncovers disturbing supernatural occurrences threatening both his family and the town's fragile peace. Adding complexity, his wife and children begin experiencing eerie phenomena at home, suggesting a link between the missing children and unsettling hauntings.

Critics have noted that "Baramulla" walks a delicate line among psychological tension, real-world trauma, and supernatural horror. The film notably addresses Kashmir's militancy issues while also delving into the haunting legacy faced by the Kashmiri Pandit community. Its storyline interweaves themes of terror, trauma, and the mental scars left by conflict, making it more than just a conventional horror movie. The cinematography highlights the breathtaking yet somber snow-clad landscapes, setting a poignant backdrop for the narrative.

Manav Kaul's portrayal of Ridwan, a man burdened by a tragic past involving the accidental loss of a child during a militant encounter, has been widely praised for its raw emotional depth. Reviewers emphasize how the film's climax is more heartbreaking than frightening, providing a solemn reflection on Kashmir’s wounds rather than relying on typical horror tropes.

At approximately 2 hours in length, some audiences find the pacing slow at the start, and the plot can become somewhat convoluted near the climax due to the rapidly delivered information. Nevertheless, "Baramulla" has been noted for its thoughtful treatment of complex issues and its effort to reveal a Kashmir that is at once beautiful, terrifying, and deeply scarred.

The movie was officially released on November 7, 2025, and is available for streaming on Netflix. It is being hailed as a first-of-its-kind supernatural film set in Kashmir, inviting viewers to engage with the region’s layered realities beyond familiar stereotypical images.

Overall, "Baramulla" stands out as a haunting cinematic piece that blends supernatural suspense with profound social trauma, making it a must-watch for audiences interested in both thriller genres and the nuanced stories emerging from Kashmir.