Mayasabha: The Hall of Illusion is a Hindi-language thriller, drama, and fantasy film with a runtime of 1 hour and 44 minutes. Released on January 30, 2026, it has garnered a critic's rating of 2.5 and a matching user rating of 2.5. Directed by Rahi Anil Barve, the movie features a cast including Jaaved Jaaferi, Veena Jamkar, Deepak Damle, and Mohammad Samad.
Mayasabha: The Hall of Illusion Movie Review
Abhishek Srivastava | January 30, 2026, 3:13 PM IST
Story Overview
The narrative centers on Parmeshwar Khanna, portrayed by Jaaved Jaaferi, a failed film producer who resides with his son Vasu, played by Mohammad Samad, in a dilapidated theater. Consumed by an obsession with hidden treasure, Parmeshwar's life takes a tense turn when Zeenat, enacted by Veena Jamkar, and her brother Ravrana, portrayed by Deepak Damle, enter their isolated world. Their arrival unveils secrets and escalates tensions, transforming the theater into a battleground of deception and psychological standoffs.
Critical Analysis
Mayasabha arrives with significant anticipation, largely due to director Rahi Anil Barve's previous works and the promise of an unconventional cinematic experience. Initially, the film captivates with its unsettling atmosphere and intriguing setting, drawing viewers into its eerie world. However, as the plot unfolds, it gradually tests the audience's patience, with prolonged scenes and repetitive dialogues that hinder momentum.
The abandoned theater serves as a powerful metaphor for decay and obsession, but the film often reiterates this symbolism without adding substantial depth to the storyline. Scenes stretch beyond necessity, and conversations linger in the same emotional space, creating a sense of stagnation. While the film aims for a slow-burn psychological thriller, it occasionally mistakes silence for profound meaning, leading to moments where viewer engagement wanes.
Performance Highlights
The cast delivers commendable performances that partially redeem the film's pacing issues. Jaaved Jaaferi shines as Parmeshwar Khanna, portraying a man gripped by quiet desperation and unwavering belief in his fantasies. His restrained performance avoids caricature, adding layers to the character's appeal. Mohammad Samad brings a natural ease to Vasu, offering the film's most human and relatable moments. Veena Jamkar and Deepak Damle inject energy into their roles as Zeenat and Ravrana, briefly revitalizing the narrative during their interactions.
These performances hint at a more gripping film beneath the surface, one that could have leveraged its talented cast to greater effect. The actors' credibility suggests that with tighter editing and a sharper script, Mayasabha might have achieved a more compelling impact.
Overall Verdict
Mayasabha: The Hall of Illusion leaves viewers with a sense of appreciation for its artistic intent and serious tone, rather than emotional involvement. It respects the craft of filmmaking but struggles to maintain audience engagement throughout its runtime. This film is not for casual viewers seeking fast-paced entertainment; instead, it caters to those who appreciate mood-driven narratives that challenge conventional storytelling.
If you enjoy films that immerse you in a singular atmosphere and resist obvious entertainment tropes, Mayasabha offers a unique experience. However, if you expect a story that consistently holds attention and rewards viewing time, this film may prove disappointing. With an average user rating of 2.5, it stands as a divisive entry in the thriller genre, celebrated for its ambition but critiqued for its execution.
