Let’s talk about Manjulika—also known as Anjulika—a character that truly left a mark in Indian cinema, especially through her portrayal in the 2016 horror-comedy gem Bhool Bhulaiyaa, directed by Priyadarshan. Now, this film wasn’t entirely original; it was actually a remake of the 1993 Malayalam classic Manichitrathazhu. But when it comes to Manjulika, there’s no denying she became a cultural phenomenon, all thanks to the powerhouse performance by Vidya Balan.

So, who exactly is Manjulika? Well, in Bhool Bhulaiyaa, she’s depicted as a vengeful spirit haunting an ancient palace, believed to be the restless soul of a talented dancer who was betrayed and brutally murdered by the man she loved. Her story is tragic, yes, but also deeply layered. Manjulika isn’t just a ghost out for revenge—she embodies duality, mystery, and emotional intensity. One moment you see her as Anjulika, gentle and graceful; the next, she transforms into Manjulika, fierce and terrifying. This contrast is what makes her so compelling—and unforgettable.

And honestly, a big part of why Manjulika resonates so strongly with audiences is Vidya Balan. Her performance? Absolutely mesmerizing. She didn’t just play the role—she became Manjulika. The way she shifted from soft, vulnerable expressions to chilling, otherworldly stares was nothing short of masterful. Critics took notice too, showering her with praise and awards, which only added to the legacy of Manjulika as one of Indian cinema’s most iconic female characters.

It’s not just about scares, though. Manjulika’s presence brings depth to the narrative. There’s intrigue around her past, sorrow in her fate, and a burning need for justice—or perhaps, retribution. That complexity draws viewers in, making them question whether she’s purely evil or a victim turned avenger. And that ambiguity? That’s where the real magic lies.

Now, stepping into a slightly different realm, if we were to explore Manjulika’s personality beyond the screen, some might link her to the ISFP personality type. ISFPs are often seen as artistic, sensitive souls who value beauty and authenticity. They tend to be creative, introspective, and deeply connected to their emotions—traits that definitely echo in both Anjulika’s grace and Manjulika’s passionate fury. These individuals aren’t afraid to stand out, to feel deeply, or to challenge norms. Sound familiar? Yeah, Manjulika fits that mold pretty well.

When it comes to the Enneagram, things get a bit trickier. We can’t pin down fictional characters with absolute certainty, of course. But based on what we know—her intense emotions, deep sense of betrayal, longing for recognition, and overwhelming desire to be seen—it’s possible Manjulika aligns with Type 4: “The Individualist” or “The Creative.” Type 4s often feel misunderstood, crave authenticity, and struggle with feelings of being different or unappreciated. Manjulika’s entire existence revolves around being acknowledged, remembered, and feared—perhaps because she was ignored in life.

Still, it’s important to remember that personality typing isn’t an exact science, especially with fictional beings. Manjulika might show traits of other types too. But overall, the emotional depth, artistic flair, and inner turmoil she displays make the Type 4 connection quite plausible.

In the end, whether you call her Manjulika or Anjulika, one thing remains clear: she’s more than just a ghost story. She’s a symbol of suppressed emotion, forgotten identity, and the power of vengeance wrapped in elegance. Thanks to Vidya Balan’s brilliant acting, Manjulika lives on—not just in haunted palaces, but in the hearts of fans across generations. Truly, Manjulika stands as a testament to how a well-crafted character, brought to life with passion and precision, can transcend genre and become legendary.