Netflix’s new film Inspector Zende, starring Manoj Bajpayee and Jim Sarbh in lead roles, is an intriguing crime thriller released on 5 September 2025, as reported by Indian media.
According to details, the film tells the story of a police officer who attempts to capture the notorious criminal Charles Sobhraj, also known as the “Bikini Killer” or “Swimsuit Killer.” But the question is, is this film really based on a true story? Let’s explore its background.
Inspector Zende is inspired by the life of Mumbai Police officer Madhukar Bapurao Zende, who arrested Charles Sobhraj not just once, but twice, during the 1970s and 1980s. In the film, Manoj Bajpayee plays the role of Madhukar Zende, while Jim Sarbh portrays a fictional character named Karl Bhojraj, inspired by Charles Sobhraj.
The True Story of Madhukar Zende
Madhukar Bapurao Zende was a real Mumbai Police officer who served from 1959 to 1996. He became famous for his bravery and intelligence, particularly for capturing Charles Sobhraj twice. Charles Sobhraj, also known as “The Serpent” or the “Bikini Killer,” was a notorious serial killer accused of murdering at least 50 tourists across Asia in the 1970s. He gained global fame for his cunning and ability to evade the legal system.
Madhukar Zende first arrested Charles Sobhraj in 1971 at Mumbai’s Taj Hotel. According to an interview, Zende and his team surveilled outside the Taj Hotel for several days. Sobhraj was planning a major robbery, and weapons and hotel receipts were recovered from him, which led to other members of his gang.
This arrest boosted Zende’s reputation, but Sobhraj later shocked everyone by escaping from Tihar Jail in Delhi. He had planned his escape by giving the jail guards intoxicating sweets.
In 1986, when Sobhraj re-entered India, Zende was tasked with capturing him again. This time, he was hiding in Goa. Zende tracked him with the help of locals. A key clue came from a local named Mapankar, who had seen Sobhraj’s “Peacock Green” motorcycle.
Additionally, an employee at Panaji’s Central Telegraph Office, Menizes, revealed that foreigners often made phone calls from the O’Coqueiro restaurant. On 6 April 1986, Zende recognized and arrested Sobhraj at that very restaurant. Lacking handcuffs, he asked the restaurant staff for a rope to tie Sobhraj.
Zende’s bravery earned him national fame. He not only captured Charles Sobhraj but also took action against other major criminals like Haji Mastan and Arun Gawli. He was awarded the Police Medal for Meritorious Service and the President’s Medal for Distinguished Service in consecutive years—a rare honor in Mumbai Police history.
Is the Film Completely True?
While Inspector Zende is inspired by Zende’s life and the arrests of Sobhraj, the film takes some creative liberties. For instance, Charles Sobhraj’s character is renamed Karl Bhojraj, and some dramatic elements are added to make the story more engaging.
The film’s director, Chinaye Mandlikar, presents it as a crime comedy, which deviates slightly from actual events. However, the film pays tribute to Zende’s bravery and determination and gives a glimpse of Mumbai Police in the 1970s-80s.
