Raaz: The Low-Budget Horror Blockbuster That Terrified Bollywood and Broke Records

• Released on February 1, 2002, 'Raaz' revived Bollywood's horror genre, becoming a blockbuster despite a limited budget and new actors.
• Initially, Anil Kapoor and Hrithik Roshan declined the lead role, which eventually went to Dino Morea, with Bipasha Basu as the female lead.
• The film was shot at the reportedly haunted Fern Hill Hotel in Ooty, where the crew experienced unexplained phenomena, including loud noises from an empty floor above.
• Made on a budget of 5 crore rupees, 'Raaz' grossed 37 crore worldwide, becoming the second highest-grossing film of 2002.
• Ashutosh Rana's portrayal of Professor Agni Swaroop and the chartbuster music by Nadeem-Shravan were key highlights, contributing to its massive success.

Why It Matters: 'Raaz' redefined Bollywood horror, proving that a compelling story and music can overcome budget and star power.