Released in 1993, Zapatlela (meaning "The Possessed" or "One Who Is Haunted") is a landmark film in Marathi cinema. Directed by the visionary Mahesh Kothare, it masterfully blended horror, comedy, and emotion—a formula rarely attempted with such finesse at the time. Decades later, the film remains a beloved pop-cultural touchstone, especially for its unforgettable antagonist: a menacing, revenge-seeking puppet named Tatya Vinchu .
The story follows Lakshya (Adinath Kothare), a young boy who moves into a new bungalow with his mother. Unbeknownst to them, the house is haunted by the spirit of a ruthless gangster, Tatya Vinchu , who was killed by a police officer. Seeking vengeance, Tatya’s ghost possesses a vintage ventriloquist’s dummy—transforming the innocent-looking puppet into a chilling, wisecracking, and bloodthirsty villain. zapatlela marathi picture
A sequel, Zapatlela 2 , was released in 2013, bringing back Tatya Vinchu with modern effects. While it didn’t replicate the original’s magic, it proved the enduring love for the character. Released in 1993, Zapatlela (meaning "The Possessed" or