1. Manoj Bajpayee at His Best: Manoj Bajpayee delivers yet another masterclass as Inspector Madhukar Zende—the real-life cop credited with capturing the infamous Charles Sobhraj. His portrayal is effortless, layered, and deeply authentic, making Zende both relatable and unforgettable. This performance alone makes the film worth watching.
  2. A Fun Spin on a Crime Thriller: Though based on a serious manhunt, the film avoids becoming heavy. Instead, it blends crime drama with light humor, offering a quirky and refreshing take on a police biopic. The tone feels breezy, making it perfect for a relaxed weekend watch.
  3. Strong Ensemble & Direction: Directed by Chinmay Mandlekar, the movie features a solid supporting cast including Jim Sarbh, Sachin Khedekar, Girija Oak, and Bhalchandra Kadam. Together, they bring credibility and charm to the storytelling. The camaraderie within Zende’s team is shown with warmth and subtle humor, balancing out the tension of the chase.
  4. Sharp Writing with Comic Touches: The screenplay cleverly highlights the absurdities of the system—like the constant power struggles between police forces in different states and the resource crunch faced by Zende’s team. These details add authenticity while keeping the narrative witty and entertaining.
  5. Where It Stumbles: Not every scene lands smoothly. A few moments—such as one involving Zende’s wife cooking puran poli at the police station—feel forced. Jim Sarbh’s take on Carl Bhojraj (inspired by Sobhraj) also fails to leave the same chilling impact that the role demands.


Despite its minor flaws, Inspector Zende is a refreshing mix of crime and comedy. It’s powered by Manoj Bajpayee’s stellar performance, a sharp script, and engaging direction. The film doesn’t just tell the story of a manhunt—it entertains, amuses, and keeps you hooked.


4 out of 5.

Cast: Manoj Bajpayee, Jim Sarbh, Sachin Khedekar

Story by: Chinmay Mandlekar

Director: Chinmay Mandlekar