Sreekrishna Parunthu (1984)

Sreekrishna Parunthu, the 1984 Malayalam-language supernatural thriller directed by A. Vincent, is one of the earliest and most memorable Indian horror films to deeply integrate mythology into its storytelling. With Mohanlal in the lead role, the film goes far beyond conventional horror, weaving together tantric practices, snake worship, ancestral curses, and the concept of divine justice — all within a culturally rich and spiritually charged setting. The title itself, Sreekrishna Parunthu, refers to the sacred falcon associated with Lord Krishna, a symbol of righteousness that soars above the film’s narrative as both a warning and a savior.

Mohanlal plays a powerful and feared tantric who uses his spiritual knowledge not for healing but for manipulation, personal gain, and even destruction. His descent into darkness and eventual reckoning mirrors the age-old mythological pattern where unchecked power, even when derived from divine sources, invites destruction. The character is haunted not just by his own deeds but by the ancient forces he has tried to control — invoking a world where karmic justice is swift and inevitable.

One of the most striking mythological elements of Sreekrishna Parunthu is its authentic portrayal of tantric rituals and snake worship, especially the veneration of Nagadevata (the serpent deity). These are not just cinematic props but draw directly from traditional Kerala practices, where rituals surrounding snakes, family curses, and temple-bound vows remain significant even today. The film doesn’t treat these beliefs as superstition but instead presents them with reverence and fear, acknowledging the power they hold in people’s lives.

The divine falcon — the Sreekrishna Parunthu — is not merely metaphorical. It becomes an almost sentient force in the story, representing Lord Krishna’s will and the inescapable nature of dharma. This celestial bird is the balance to the protagonist’s corrupted knowledge, eventually emerging as the protector of the innocent and the enforcer of cosmic order. Through this symbol, the film reaffirms the idea found throughout Indian mythology: that no matter how powerful or invincible evil seems, it will ultimately be brought to justice by divine intervention.

Mohanlal delivers a compelling performance, capturing the inner conflict of a man torn between inherited spiritual authority and his own moral downfall. His presence adds gravity to the storyline, as viewers witness his transformation from an invincible figure to someone overwhelmed by forces beyond his control. The women in the story also draw from mythological archetypes — the devoted protector, the temptress, and the seeker of justice — contributing to the overall richness of the mythic narrative.

Visually, the film is steeped in symbolism. The use of sacred fire, temple bells, serpent imagery, and eerie shadows all help build a world where the spiritual and supernatural are one and the same. The background score and haunting chants heighten the mystical atmosphere, drawing viewers into a realm that is both terrifying and divine. The storytelling maintains a strong undercurrent of morality — reinforcing that spiritual power, when abused, leads to destruction.

In retrospect, Sreekrishna Parunthu stands as a pioneer in Indian mythological horror, influencing many later films that explore similar themes. Its unique appeal lies in its rootedness — it doesn’t borrow from Western horror traditions but builds its dread and tension from Indian cultural and spiritual beliefs. Today, as myth-based storytelling becomes more mainstream in Indian cinema and streaming platforms, Sreekrishna Parunthu holds a revered place as a film that dared to combine fear with faith, horror with heritage.

Ultimately, Sreekrishna Parunthu is more than just a horror movie. It’s a deeply mythological tale about karma, misuse of sacred knowledge, and divine retribution. For anyone interested in Indian mythology, cultural symbolism, and powerful storytelling, this film remains a timeless watch that bridges the gap between folklore and cinema with haunting brilliance.