Netflix yesterday announced ‘Inspector Zende’, a gripping crime drama headlined by actors Manoj Bajpayee and Jim Sarbh.  The film, inspired by true events, will begin streaming on the platform from September 5.

Set in the bustling bylanes of 1970s and 1980s Mumbai, ‘Inspector Zende’ follows the story of a determined police officer and the infamous ‘Swimsuit Killer’ (Charles Sobhraj) who escapes from Tihar Jail in New Delhi, according to the official logline, a PTI report said yesterday. Loosely inspired by a true story, this tale of determination and sheer grit unfolds into an epic cat and mouse chase.

Starring the ever-versatile Manoj Bajpayee as Inspector Madhukar Zende, and Jim Sarbh as the charming trickster and notorious “swimsuit killer” Carl Bhojraj, the film is directed and written by Chinmay D. Mandlekar. It also features Bhalchandra Kadam, Sachin Khedekar, Girija Oak and Harish Dudhade in pivotal roles.

‘Inspector Zende’ blends crime, comedy, and nostalgia and transports one to a time when gut instinct trumped gadgets and relentless determination was a cop’s greatest weapon.

Producer Om Raut 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 that 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.

Ruchikaa Kapoor Sheikh, Director of Original Films, Netflix India, shared, “‘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. With Manoj Bajpayee and Jim Sarbh leading the charge, the film bursts with personality, supported by a versatile ensemble cast. At Netflix, we’re continually drawn to stories that celebrate heartland heroes and victories woven into the fabric of our culture and history.”