👮♂️ What’s It All About?
Inspector Zende, directed by Chinmay Mandlekar, is now streaming on Netflix (from 5 Sept 2025). The film is inspired by the real-life cop Madhukar Zende, who famously caught the “Bikini Killer” Charles Sobhraj twice!
Here, Manoj Bajpayee plays Inspector Zende, while Jim Sarbh steps into the shoes of smooth-talking criminal Carl Bhojraj. Set in the late 70s and 80s Mumbai, the movie brings a quirky mix of crime, comedy, and nostalgia.
⭐ Why People Are Loving It
- NDTV says the mix of true crime + humour works really well.
- IndiaForums calls it “refreshing” with its retro feel and Bajpayee’s top-notch acting.
- Koimoi notes it flips the usual cop-thief chase into something warm, witty, and fun.
⚖️ Where It Falls Short
- Indian Express feels the tone is uneven, not fully capturing the cat-and-mouse game.
- Rediff says some parts rely too much on old-school comedy, making them forgettable.
🗣️ Fans React on X (Twitter)

The vibe is clear—viewers are enjoying the nostalgia, humour, and performances.
🎥 Final Take
If you’re in the mood for a quirky retro cop story with a good dose of humour and strong acting, Inspector Zende is worth a weekend watch. But if you’re expecting a serious edge-of-the-seat thriller, this might feel a little too light.
📌 Quick Glance
👍 What Works | 👎 What Doesn’t |
---|---|
Manoj Bajpayee’s witty performance | Tone feels uneven at times |
Retro Mumbai vibe | Some flat comedy scenes |
Mix of humour & crime | Not a hardcore thriller |
Nostalgia factor | Lacks depth in storyline |
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