Festivals have always served as the colorful heartbeat of Indian storytelling, bringing iconic celebrations like Holi, Diwali, and Lohri to life on the silver screen across generations. However, mainstream Bollywood has rarely ventured into showcasing the deep emotional and cultural majesty of Chhath Puja, the legendary festival of Bihar and Purvanchal. That historic cinematic barrier is finally breaking down. The upcoming supernatural thriller The One: Force of the Forest, starring Sidharth Malhotra and Tamannaah Bhatia, is set to make box office history by capturing the grand rituals of Chhathi Maiya for the very first time in Hindi cinema, blending regional heritage with high-stakes thrills.
Roots in Patna: The Connection Between The One and Van Devi Temple
The inclusion of Chhath Puja in The One is far more than a momentary festive backdrop; it is woven directly into the core narrative of the film. The entire plot draws inspiration from the mystical folklore and regional traditions surrounding the historic Van Devi Temple located near Patna. Early teaser glimpses have already hinted at dark, spine-chilling secrets hidden within the dense, eerie forests of the region. By rooting the supernatural plot in authentic Bihari culture, the makers have crafted an immersive cinematic universe that honors local heritage while delivering pulse-pounding suspense.
Tamannaah Bhatia’s Powerful Chhath Sequence and Director Roots
One of the most talked-about highlights from promotional footage features Tamannaah Bhatia dressed in a traditional red saree with vibrant orange vermillion, performing the sacred rituals of Nahai-Khaay on the riverbank to invoke Chhathi Maiya and Surya Dev, right before a terrifying supernatural twist unfolds. This cultural authenticity is no accident. Directors Deepak Kumar Mishra and Arunabh Kumar both hail from Bihar, driving a passionate vision to showcase the breathtaking beauty of their homeland’s traditions to a global audience. Packed with regional pride, suspense, and stellar performances, The One is slated to hit theaters nationwide on September 25, 2026.
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