Present research has led to the development of antibacterial properties in polyacrylonitrile (PAN) using Curcuma longa. The probable interaction of curcumin with PAN was modelled using ab initio calculations via Materials Studio 6.5. Modelling shows stable hydrogen bonding interaction between curcumin and PAN. Further interactions were confirmed by performing FTIR. Topological studies reveal a radical change in surface roughness, which significantly affects the water contact angle rendering the film highly hydrophilic (19 degrees). Dispersion behaviour and stability of curcumin in PAN solution was studied using Xigo Nanotools. In-vitro antibacterial activity was evaluated by disc diffusion pour plate method against Gram (+) Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis as compared to Gram (-) Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae. In-vitro release study shows two stage release of the curcumin, an initial quick release followed by slow release. Release kinetics of curcumin follows Higuchi model. MTT assay indicated cell viability of mouse fibroblast on curcumin loaded PAN. (C) 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.