‘Maa’ Review: Kajol Shines in a Glossy, Supernatural Horror That Struggles Beneath the Surface

Kajol supernatural horror

Welcome to the second chapter in the expanding Shaitan Universe—a bold, cinematic world blending Indian spirituality with supernatural horror. Maa, the spiritual sequel to Shaitaan (2024), brings Kajol to the forefront as a mother caught between maternal instincts and ancient demonic forces. Directed with a clear visual flair and backed by high-production values, Maa aims high. But while it hits a few chilling notes, it doesn't always land where it truly matters—your heart.

Kajol supernatural horror

A Supernatural Premise with Familiar Beats

At the center of Maa is Kajol’s character, a fiercely protective mother whose daughter is drawn into a dark and sinister realm rooted in spiritual beliefs and divine feminine energy. The film wastes no time in diving into the eerie—a cursed forest, ancient scriptures, and recurring dreams of Maa Kali hinting at an age-old war between divine power and demonic chaos.

This horror fantasy builds upon the universe that Shaitaan introduced, where supernatural forces clash with human vulnerability. There are references to past events, possession lore, and even a mid-credit tease that hints at an eventual convergence of all stories in the Shaitan Universe.

Kajol supernatural horror

Kajol: The Anchor in a Storm

Make no mistake, this is Kajol’s film from start to finish. Her performance is intense, controlled, and emotionally grounded. She brings an authenticity to the role that transcends the film’s more clichéd moments. Whether she’s confronting the demon head-on or breaking down in fear for her daughter, Kajol keeps you invested.

Unfortunately, the emotional core of the story never quite reaches its full potential. The screenplay leans too heavily on familiar horror tropes—jump scares, chanting monks, a cryptic priest, and of course, a climactic possession. These elements feel like déjà vu if you’ve seen films like Tumbbad, Pari, or even The Exorcism of Emily Rose.

Kajol supernatural horror

A Visual Feast… with Hollow Echoes

Where Maa truly succeeds is in its visuals. The set design, special effects, and cinematography are a marked step up from what Indian horror audiences are used to. Scenes depicting the netherworld or invoking Devi Kali are gorgeously stylized and filled with spiritual symbolism. But all the visual finesse can’t cover up the thinness of the plot.

Even the supernatural elements, though rich and full of potential, are often reduced to exposition-heavy dialogues that slow down the pace. And while Maa wants to be emotionally moving, the bond between mother and daughter never quite feels raw or vulnerable enough to leave a lasting impact.

Final Verdict

Maa is a decent step forward for Indian horror and a promising installment in the larger Shaitan Universe. Kajol elevates what could have been a run-of-the-mill horror flick, and the filmmakers deserve credit for bringing high-concept spiritual themes to mainstream cinema. However, the film falls short of delivering a truly unforgettable experience.

If you’re a fan of supernatural thrillers, enjoy spiritual storytelling, or are following the Shaitan Universe, Maa is worth a watch. Just don’t expect it to break new ground beyond its glossy surface.

Verdict: A visually striking but emotionally underwhelming horror tale. Kajol delivers, but the film doesn’t quite live up to its supernatural ambition.