The project served primarily as a star vehicle for Aiysha Saagar, an indie performer known for digital self-marketing and indie music videos. The core cast and crew involved in the production include: Tantrica (Short 2018) - IMDb
Tantrica - The Dark Shades of Kamasutra (also known as Tantrica or The Dark Side of Kamasutra ) is a 2018 Australian fantasy thriller short film that generated significant online attention for its ambitious premise, blending ancient Tantric practices with supernatural horror and erotic thriller elements. Directed by Michael Jalal and written by lead actress Aiysha Saagar, this 44-minute independent production presents a dark reinterpretation of traditional Tantric philosophy, exploring themes of power, immortality, and forbidden spiritual knowledge through a modern lens. Though the film attracted over 20 million YouTube views—primarily driven by its explicit content—it was met with overwhelmingly negative critical reviews regarding its acting, direction, and screenplay. Nonetheless, the project remains an interesting case study in low-budget independent filmmaking, online content strategy, and the controversial representation of esoteric traditions in popular media.
is a 2018 erotic thriller short film that explores themes of power, sexuality, and the occult. Plot Overview
Since its release, Tantrica has garnered significant attention online, particularly on platforms like YouTube, where it has seen millions of views. However, reviews are starkly divided:
Events or publications that explore the darker or less conventional aspects of spirituality and eroticism inevitably attract attention and may stir controversy. The term "dark shades" could imply an exploration of themes such as the shadow aspects of human sexuality, taboo practices, or the mystical dimensions of erotic experiences. Such explorations can challenge societal norms and individual comfort zones, leading to a deeper questioning of what we consider acceptable or sacred.
Driven by an obsession with immortality and absolute authority, Kalpana rejects the traditional, righteous teachings of her Guru. Instead, she secretly turns to the (the forbidden, left-hand path of Tantra). Through dark rituals and occult sexual practices, she unlocks supernatural abilities. Tantrica (Short 2018) - IMDb
(Aiysha Saagar), an abandoned child raised by a Sadhu in a remote mountain ashram. Driven by a secret desire to control her own destiny and gain immortality, Kalpana rejects the path of righteousness taught by her Guru. Instead, she delves into the "left-hand path" of Tantra, developing supernatural abilities through forbidden rituals. The Ancient Past
: It holds a 3.1/10 rating on IMDb and a similar low score on Letterboxd .
The film is a short feature—approximately 40 minutes long—produced by M J BLac Films PTY LTD in Australia. It is primarily in English, with some Hindi. as Kalpana (also the film's writer) Shabbir Ali as Prince Aaditya Justin Gerardin as Dev Ashleigh Rainer as Tina Chris Bridgewater as Sam Kristna Saikia as Mohini Satish Rai as Guruji Critical Reception Tantrica (Short 2018) - IMDb
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Viewer Consensus: 5.1 / 10 (IMDb) [★☆☆☆☆] "Terrible film, weak plot, and bad acting. Only for fans of soft porn." [★★★☆☆] "An interesting, campy mix of supernatural thriller and adult content." Content Advisory:
If you are looking for this film because of the reference to "Kamasutra," it is important to adjust expectations. While the actual Kamasutra is a historical treatise on love and lifestyle, movies with this title in modern Indian cinema are almost exclusively focused on soft-core erotica and thriller elements rather than historical accuracy or spiritual education.
The central controversy of the film is its heavy reliance on sexually explicit scenes, leading to intense debate. Critics argue it is a "soft core disguised as a thriller" and that the acting, screenplay, and direction are subpar.