“Munjya,” a Hindi horror-comedy film released on June 7, 2024, directed by Aditya Sarpotdar and produced by Dinesh Vijan and Amar Kaushik under Maddock Films, is the third installment in the Maddock Supernatural Universe, following “Stree” and “Bhediya.” Starring Sharvari, Abhay Verma, Mona Singh, and Sathyaraj, the film blends folklore-inspired horror with humor, centering on the legend of Munjya—a vengeful spirit from Indian mythology. Despite its modest box office performance, grossing ₹132.13 crore worldwide against a ₹30 crore budget, “Munjya” has been hailed as a sleeper hit and earned mixed-to-positive critical reception for its unique premise and execution.

The story kicks off in 1952 in the Konkan region, where a young boy, Gotya, obsessed with marrying an older girl named Munni, resorts to black magic under a peepal tree, only to die and become the restless spirit Munjya. Fast forward to the present, the narrative follows Bittu (Abhay Verma), a timid yet endearing young man who unwittingly unleashes Munjya during a visit to his ancestral village. The spirit, fixated on fulfilling its desire to marry, latches onto Bittu, sparking a chaotic adventure filled with laughs and chills as he tries to protect himself and his love interest, Bela (Sharvari), from Munjya’s clutches.

Critics have praised “Munjya” for its fresh concept and engaging performances. Abhay Verma shines as Bittu, bringing a perfect mix of vulnerability, humor, and heart to the role, making him the film’s emotional anchor. Sharvari, while charming as Bela, is somewhat underutilized until the climax, though her chemistry with Verma adds a relatable touch. Mona Singh delivers a standout performance as Bittu’s fiery mother, Pammi, injecting energy and wit, while Sathyaraj’s quirky exorcist character provides some of the film’s funniest moments. The CGI-rendered Munjya, resembling a mischievous Gollum-like creature, is a technical triumph, with its design and animation earning accolades for adding both creepiness and charm.

The film excels in its atmospheric setting, with Saurabh Goswami’s cinematography capturing the eerie beauty of Konkan’s forests and ruins. The background score by Sachin-Jigar enhances the tension, though the jump scares, while effective, rarely terrify. Where “Munjya” stumbles is in its pacing and tonal balance— the first half is brisk and gripping, weaving drama, comedy, and horror seamlessly, but the second half leans too heavily on slapstick, diluting the suspense. Some plot points, like Munjya’s sudden shift in affection from Munni to Bela, feel rushed or convenient, and the screenplay occasionally sacrifices depth for gags.

Despite these flaws, “Munjya” stands out for its quirky energy and cultural authenticity, drawing from Marathi folklore to craft a tale that’s both entertaining and meaningful. It subtly weaves in a message about consent, echoing themes from “Stree,” which adds a layer of substance to its spooky fun. “Munjya” may not match the polish or scare factor of “Stree,” but it’s a worthy addition to the Maddock universe, offering a lighthearted yet thrilling ride. Its mid-credits scene, tying it to “Bhediya” and teasing “Stree 2,” keeps fans hooked for more.