Inspector Zende: A Daring Inspector, The Notorious Swimsuit Killer, And One Epic Cat-and-Mouse Chase
Mumbai, August 25: Netflix is set to transport audiences back in time with its upcoming film, Inspector Zende, a gripping crime thriller loosely inspired by a true story. Written and directed by Chinmay Mandlekar and produced by Jay Shewakramani and Om Raut, the film is poised to stream exclusively on Netflix from September 5. A newly released trailer hints at a relentless and quirky cat-and-mouse chase, celebrating a lesser-known but legendary hero of the Mumbai Police.
The film chronicles the unbelievable pursuit of Inspector Madhukar Zende, a streetwise, instinct-driven cop from an era before CCTV and cyber forensics. His grit and resourcefulness, or ‘jugaad’, are put to the ultimate test as he tracks down the infamous “Swimsuit Killer,” Carl Bhojraj, not once but twice. The trailer promises a compelling blend of nostalgia, tension, and wit, showcasing the extraordinary story of an ordinary man.
Manoj Bajpayee steps into the shoes of the sharp-witted Inspector Zende, locked in a tense game with Jim Sarbh, who portrays the charming and elusive Carl Bhojraj. The ensemble cast includes seasoned actors Sachin Khedekar and Bhalchandra Kadam as Zende’s trusted team, alongside Harish Dudhade, Onkar Raut, Bharat Savale, and Nitin Bhajan. Girija Oak and Vaibhav Mangale also feature in pivotal roles, with their on-screen camaraderie and banter adding a layer of entertainment to the high-stakes hunt. The chase spans across various cities, culminating in a dramatic capture in Goa, a testament to Zende’s sharp instincts and seamless teamwork.
Reflecting on his role, Manoj Bajpayee shared what drew him to the character: “What fascinated me about Inspector Zende was that he wasn’t chasing glory – he was just doing his job, yet caught one of the most notorious criminals twice.” He praised the inspector’s bravery, humour, and the “unmistakable Mumbai flavour” that made the story so inspiring. Bajpayee expressed his delight that Zende’s story is finally getting a global platform on Netflix.
Director Chinmay D. Mandlekar commented on the film’s appeal, noting that the real-life chase had all the makings of a great movie: “a larger-than-life cop, a slippery antagonist, and an unforgettable era of Mumbai.” He highlighted the film’s focus on the human element—the camaraderie and quirks of those involved. “The trailer hints at the chase, but the film lets you live every beat of it,” he added.
Inspector Zende will be available to stream globally on Netflix from 5 September.
