Thamma: Vampire Betaal Origin, Ashwatthama Theory & Bhediya Cameo in MHCU

Kenneth Hopkins
Sep 26
3 min read

The trailer for Thamma is finally out, and Maddock Films is clearly betting big on its expanding horror-comedy universe. At first glance, the trailer may not deliver that instant “must-watch” impact, but a deeper look reveals plenty of hidden details, mythological twists, and exciting crossovers. Between vampires known as Betaal, the possible Ashwatthama connection, and a jaw-dropping Bhediya cameo, Thamma could be the boldest chapter yet in the MHCU (Maddock Horror-Comedy Universe).

The Betaal Backstory: Vampires With a Purpose

The trailer begins with a temple shot, already teased in earlier promotions. Rashmika Mandanna’s voiceover explains that the Betaal were created to protect humans. That flips the usual vampire narrative on its head—these creatures weren’t originally monsters.

But Nawazuddin Siddiqui’s character rebels, vowing to drink human blood, build his own vampire army, and become Thamma. This suggests that Thamma isn’t just a name—it could be the title of an ancient, god-like Betaal whom people once worshipped.

Ashwatthama Connection: Mythology Meets Vampires

The film may also be weaving Indian mythology into its vampire lore. The worship of a fanged idol in the trailer sparks speculation: could Thamma be linked to Ashwatthama, the immortal warrior from the Mahabharata who was cursed to wander forever with unhealed wounds?

If true, Maddock is attempting a bold fusion—reimagining Ashwatthama as the first Betaal, whose story evolves into modern vampire mythology.

Raktbeej & The Bloodline of Vampires

The trailer heavily references the Raktbeej legend—the asura whose blood created countless demons. Shots of Kali Maa fighting mid-air to stop blood from touching the ground suggest that vampires in Thamma may have originated from Raktbeej’s bloodline. This mythological link would explain why blood is the central power source for the Betaal.

Ayushmann Khurrana’s Role: A Reincarnated Warrior?

Ayushmann plays Alok, but clues hint that he might be the reincarnation of the same warrior (or even a Betaal) who imprisoned Nawazuddin’s vampire centuries ago. His bond with Rashmika may even stem from an unfinished love story from a past life.

The trailer also confirms his transformation into a vampire, showing pale skin, fangs, and enhanced powers. Like Varun Dhawan in Bhediya, Ayushmann’s character seems to struggle with controlling his new abilities—though his fate may be darker.

Rashmika’s Hidden Powers

Rashmika’s character rescues Alok with supernatural strength, but she is never shown with fangs. Is she secretly a vampire? Or does she carry another mystical energy? The trailer teases her powers without fully revealing their origin, leaving audiences guessing.

Nawazuddin vs Ayushmann: The Vampire Showdown

The action peaks with Nawazuddin and Ayushmann clashing in dramatic fight sequences. The CGI shows glowing eyes, supernatural trails, and destructive blows. Nawazuddin’s demonic aura—red sclera eyes and Voldemort-style energy—sets him apart from ordinary vampires, while Ayushmann gradually learns to push back.

The Big Surprise: Bhediya’s Cameo

Just when fans thought the trailer couldn’t get bigger, Varun Dhawan’s Bhediya appears. Redesigned with a scarier, upright werewolf look, the cameo confirms Maddock’s intent to cement the MHCU (Maddock Horror-Comedy Universe). Whether this upgraded Bhediya is a friend or foe is unclear, but his presence connects Thamma directly to Stree, Bhediya, Munjya, and beyond.

Final Thoughts

The Thamma trailer may have some flat comedic moments and perhaps reveals too much, but its ambitious mix of vampire lore, Indian mythology, and cinematic universe-building makes it one of the most intriguing Bollywood horror-comedies in years. With Nawazuddin’s dark turn, Ayushmann’s transformation, and Bhediya’s crossover, Thamma could redefine the genre for Indian audiences.

Aapke Sawal, Hamare Jawab! (FAQs)

Q1: What is Thamma about? Thamma is a horror-comedy film set in the Maddock Horror-Comedy Universe (MHCU). It explores the origin of vampire-like creatures called Betaal and features Nawazuddin Siddiqui as a power-hungry vampire battling Ayushmann Khurrana’s character.

Q2: Is Thamma connected to Stree and Bhediya? Yes. Thamma is officially part of the MHCU. The trailer even confirms a direct Bhediya cameo, tying it to Stree and Munjya.

Q3: Why are the vampires in Thamma called Betaal? The film uses Indian folklore, where “Betaal” refers to supernatural beings. In Thamma, Betaal are portrayed as vampires created to protect humans before some turned rogue.

Q4: Does Thamma include Indian mythology like Ashwatthama or Raktbeej? Yes. The film appears to link Betaal to both Ashwatthama (the immortal warrior of the Mahabharata) and Raktbeej (the blood-demon of Hindu mythology), blending these myths with vampire storytelling.

Q5: Who are the main actors in Thamma?