Inspector Zende, a Netflix film inspired by the real-life incident of serial killer Charles Sobhraj being caught by Mumbai Police inspector Madhukar Zende, was announced by the makers on Thursday. The film stars Manoj Bajpayee in the titular role, while Jim Sarbh is essaying the role of ‘swimsuit killer’ Carl Bhojraj in the film.
Netflix made the announcement of the film via an Instagram post on Thursday which looks like a page out of a newspaper. It reads: “Zendebad! Will the inspector be able to catch the swimsuit killer?” “Chor - police ka khel ab hoga shuru (A cat and mouse chase will begin now) Inspector Zende is now reporting for duty,” reads the caption.
As per a press release shared by the makers, the film’s description reads, “In the winding gullies of 70’s and 80’s Mumbai, when the infamous Swimsuit Killer breaks out of Tihar Jail, a determined police officer must track him down at all costs. Loosely inspired by a true story, this tale of determination and sheer grit unfolds into an epic cat and mouse chase.”
The film has been directed and written by Chinmay D. Mandlekar. It also features Bhalchandra Kadam, Sachin Khedekar, Girija Oak and Harish Dudhade in pivotal roles. It has been produced by Om Raut and Jay Shewakramani.
Talking about the film, producer Om said, “Inspector Zende’s story is one that deserves to be seen, remembered and celebrated. A gripping chase that’s as entertaining as it is inspiring, and most essentially, it was my father’s dream to make a film on Inspector Zende. Bringing this film to life with Netflix has been an incredible journey.
Producer Jay Shewakramani added, “Netflix’s support for distinctive, true-spirited stories and their ability to take them to audiences across the world make them the perfect partner for this film. We’re excited for viewers to meet Inspector Zende, an unlikely hero with an unforgettable story.”
Ruchikaa Kapoor Sheikh, Director of Original Films, Netflix India said, "Inspector Zende flips the classic cop-versus-criminal story on its head, deftly blending comedy and crime to deliver something truly unexpected. Inspired by true events, the film marks the Hindi directorial debut of Chinmay D Mandlekar, who brings a grounded sense of place and perspective to the storytelling.”
The film will premiere on Netflix on September 5.
