Bengali filmmaker Sandip Ray’s 2012 movie Jekhane Bhooter Bhoy (English: Where There Is Fear of Ghosts) is an intriguing film featuring three different ghost stories. Considering the production value—presumably quite modest—and its unique storytelling style, I must say this film is a treat to watch.
Unlike many other horror movies, this one doesn’t aim to frighten you. Instead, it evokes nostalgia, taking many of us back to our childhoods, when we listened to ghost stories told by our grandparents or elders—tales that once held a special place in our hearts.
One of the most interesting aspects of Jekhane Bhooter Bhoy is that it adapts beloved stories from Bengali literature. Two of the stories are by the acclaimed Indian filmmaker and author Satyajit Ray (Anath Babur Bhoy and Brown Saheber Bari), while the third is Bhoot Bhabisyat by Sirshendu Mukhopadhyay.
The film opens with an elderly gentleman, Tarinicharan (or Tarini Khuro—a fictional character created by Ray), telling ghost stories to a group of young boys. The first tale he shares is based on Ray’s Anath Babur Bhoy, which follows a man named Anath Babu and his passion for ghost hunting in haunted locations.
The second story, Brown Saheber Bari, also by Ray, centers on a book lover who discovers an old diary repeatedly mentioning a mysterious character named Simon. His curiosity leads him to the dilapidated mansion of Mr. Brown in Kalimpong.
Set in a typical Bengali village, the final story—based on Sirshendu Mukhopadhyay’s Bhoot Bhabisyat—explores the unusual friendship between a writer named Pratap and a friendly 19th-century ghost. The ghost asks for a favor and, in return, offers Pratap a generous reward.
Jekhane Bhooter Bhoy – Theatrical Trailer (Bengali)
Overall, Jekhane Bhooter Bhoy is an amusing and entertaining film, particularly for fans of Bengali literature and the timeless stories of its most celebrated authors. Each story is distinct, and the director has done a brilliant job of bringing together a diverse set of characters while remaining largely faithful to the original plots (with only slight deviations). The blend of horror and humor is well-executed, enhancing the film’s appeal.
Though I haven’t watched many Bengali (Bangla) films, it’s clear that Jekhane Bhooter Bhoy features some of the finest actors, all of whom do justice to the film. It’s a must-watch for both children and adults.
Where to watch Jekhane Bhooter Bhoy (2012)
One thought on “Jekhane Bhooter Bhoy (2012) – A Film with Three Amusing Ghost Stories”