‘Ghoul,’ ‘Betaal’ Creator Patrick Graham Pens Indian Horror Feature Based on Real Tragedy for Not Out Entertainment (EXCLUSIVE)

Patrick Graham is making his return to Hindi-language horror, signing on to write a new feature film inspired by an real-life Indian tragedy.

Graham, who created the Netflix horror series “Ghoul” and “Betaal,” will pen the script for the untitled film being backed by Khyati Madaan’s Not Out Entertainment alongside Prashant Gunjalkar.

Ahan Shetty has been tapped to star, marking a genre shift for the actor following his debut in 2021 romantic action thriller “Tadap” and ahead of his role in the ensemble war epic “Border 2,” which also features Sunny Deol, Diljit Dosanjh and Varun Dhawan. The patriotic drama is scheduled for an Indian Republic Day 2026 release and is expected to be one of the year’s major theatrical events.

The project is being positioned as a theatrical horror experience mixing scares with romance, built around the real-life historical event. The casting of the female lead is currently underway, with the title and director still to be announced.

Graham’s previous work includes the critically praised “Ghoul” in 2018 and “Betaal” in 2020, both produced under Blumhouse Television’s Indian operations. The global horror specialist is behind franchise tentpoles including “Get Out” and “The Purge.”

Producer Madaan launched Not Out Entertainment this year after a decade-long career at Red Chillies Entertainment, Disney India and Maddock Films. The company has positioned itself to revive theatrical Hindi-language cinema through genre-defining storytelling. The banner’s current slate includes the romantic horror-comedy “Abhootpurva” and a slice-of-life drama from Indian National Film Award-winning filmmaker Habib Faisal, known for “Do Dooni Chaar” and “Ishaqzaade.”

Gunjalkar brings talent management and entertainment experience through his Pals & Peers company.