In a surprising turn of events, a video featuring the iconic Marathi horror puppet Tatya Vinchu has gone massively viral, with the mischievous doll proclaiming himself the “OG” (Original Gangster) amidst the global craze surrounding Labubu dolls. The unexpected declaration has not only amused audiences but also sparked a nostalgic wave, reminding many of India’s homegrown horror icon.
The video, which has been widely shared across social media platforms, features Tatya Vinchu, the spine-chilling yet comically sinister puppet from the 1993 Marathi horror-comedy “Zapatlela,” directly addressing the current popularity of Labubu dolls. In his signature menacing tone, with the voice provided by veteran actor Dilip Prabhavalkar and operated by master ventriloquist Ramdas Padhye’s family, Tatya Vinchu dismisses the “cutesy chaos” of the trending Labubus. Speaking in Marathi, he asserts, “Now this crazy Labubu is trending on the internet. What fear can this doll even bring? Many like it will come and go, but remember — Tatya Vinchu is the OG (original).” He concludes, of course, with his unforgettable, chilling dialogue, “Om Phat Swaha.”
This bold statement comes at a time when Labubu dolls, characterized by their “ugly-cute” appearance, pointy ears, and mischievous grins, have taken the internet by storm. Created by Hong Kong artist Kasing Lung and marketed by Pop Mart, these collectible plush toys have garnered immense popularity, particularly after being spotted with celebrities like Rihanna, BLACKPINK’s Lisa, and Ananya Panday. Their “blind box” selling model, where the buyer doesn’t know which design they’ll receive until unboxing, has further fueled their viral status and a thriving resale market.
However, the creators behind Tatya Vinchu, the Padhye family, felt it was time to remind the new generation of the original Indian horror doll. Ramdas Padhye, the ventriloquist who brought Tatya Vinchu to life, has expressed surprise and delight at how many people remembered the character amidst the Labubu virality. His son, Satyajit Padhye, mentioned that a fan even suggested it was time for Tatya to assert his dominance.
The video serves as more than just a humorous take on a current trend; it’s a powerful reminder of Tatya Vinchu’s enduring legacy in Indian pop culture. Long before Annabelle became a household name in the West, Tatya Vinchu terrified and entertained audiences in India, particularly in Marathi-speaking regions. The character’s unique blend of horror and comedy, coupled with Dilip Prabhavalkar’s iconic voice and Ramdas Padhye’s skilled puppetry, left an indelible mark on a generation.
The contrast between the modern, globally trending Labubu dolls and the classically terrifying Tatya Vinchu has resonated with many, prompting discussions about cultural impact and the evolution of “horror” in toys. While Labubu represents a new wave of collectible, fashion-forward toys, Tatya Vinchu stands as a testament to the timeless appeal of a truly original and deeply ingrained character from Indian cinema. The viral video has undoubtedly put Tatya Vinchu back in the spotlight, cementing his place as the undisputed “OG of horror dolls” in the hearts of many.