Prabhas Starrer The Raja Saab Brings India’s ‘Biggest Haveli Set’ to Horror-Comedy Genre

The Indian film industry is currently witnessing a resurgence of horror cinema, with films like Stree 2, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, and Aranmanai 4 receiving an enthusiastic response at the box office. In the midst of this revival, Telugu cinema is gearing up for a major release that promises to push the boundaries of horror storytelling — The Raja Saab, directed by Maruthi and starring Prabhas in the lead role.

Positioned as a horror-comedy, The Raja Saab features a lavish and sprawling haveli set that, according to the film’s makers, is “India’s biggest.” Designed by renowned art director Rajeevan Nambiar, the set spans an impressive 41,256 square feet and serves not just as a backdrop but as a pivotal part of the narrative.

In a press statement, Rajeevan noted, “Every detail had to serve the emotion, not just the aesthetics. We didn’t want the set to look haunted—we wanted it to feel haunted.” He added, “The intention was to build something that starts pulling you in the moment you enter—whether you're a viewer or someone walking through it.”

The filmmakers also highlighted the intricate effort behind the construction of the haveli, stating, “Every stone, prop, and shade within the Haveli has been custom-built to elevate the horror. Even the floor has been designed to add an eerie texture to the visuals. This isn't just set design—it’s storytelling through space.”

The film stars Prabhas alongside Nidhhi Agerwal, Malavika Mohanan (marking her Telugu debut), and Riddhi Kumar. Backed by People Media Factory and produced by Viswa Prasad, The Raja Saab is slated for a theatrical release on December 5 in all South Indian languages as well as Hindi. Music for the film has been composed by Thaman S.

The teaser of The Raja Saab will be unveiled on June 16, building anticipation for what looks to be a landmark addition to the horror-comedy genre in Indian cinema.