Netflix Releases Inspector Zende Drama on Mumbai Cop Capturing Serial Killer

Inspector Zende, a new Netflix film starring Manoj Bajpayee, dramatizes the true story of Mumbai police officer Madhukar Zende, who captured the notorious serial killer Charles Sobhraj twice, in 1971 and 1986. The film uniquely focuses on the determined and principled cop rather than the infamous criminal, highlighting Zende's calm, ethical approach to policing and his sharp investigative skills. Bajpayee's portrayal of Zende as a relatable, family-oriented man has been widely praised and is considered the film's strongest aspect, though some critics found the screenplay inconsistent with forced humor and underdeveloped characters, particularly the fictionalized version of Sobhraj played by Jim Sarbh. The story revisits Sobhraj’s infamous crimes targeting Western tourists across Asia, while emphasizing Zende's pivotal role in tracking and arresting him, including a legendary moment when Zende calmly arrested Sobhraj at a Goa restaurant. Despite mixed reviews on the film's execution, Inspector Zende serves as a tribute to the unsung heroism of a low-profile but highly effective law enforcement officer in India’s battle against a dangerous criminal underworld.