Om Raut reveals how his childhood stories inspired Inspector Zende featuring Manoj Bajpayee : Bollywood News

For acclaimed filmmaker Om Raut, Netflix film Inspector Zende is not just another crime drama—it’s an emotional journey rooted in his childhood. The film, which released on 5 September 2025, brings to life the story of Inspector Madhukar Zende, a fearless cop who once captured the nation’s imagination. But for Raut, the connection runs even deeper.

Om Raut reveals how his childhood stories inspired Inspector Zende featuring Manoj Bajpayee

As a child, Om grew up listening to his father, Dr. Bharat Kumar Raut, narrate stories about the legendary inspector. Those anecdotes left a lasting impression, shaping his fascination for real-life heroes. Years later, with Inspector Zende now streaming, Om shared an emotional moment from the film’s set that perfectly captured the full-circle nature of this project.

“Growing up, my father’s stories about Inspector Zende filled our home. To have him witness this tribute, and to see the man himself on our set, feels like life has come full circle,” Om expressed. That day wasn’t just significant for Om—it was a powerful meeting of legacies.

The real Inspector Zende came face-to-face with his reel counterpart, Manoj Bajpayee, as Om’s father stood by his side. For the filmmaker, it was more than cinema—it was about honoring a hero and passing on a legacy that shaped his upbringing.

Inspector Zende is a comedy thriller directed and written by Chinmay Mandlekar and produced by Jay Shewakramani and Om Raut. The film stars Manoj Bajpayee in the titular role, with Jim Sarbh portraying Carl Bhojraj, a character inspired by the infamous serial killer Charles Sobhraj. Backed by a stellar ensemble cast, the film weaves crime, thrills, and dark humor into a gripping narrative.

With its release on Netflix on September 5, the project stands as both an edge-of-the-seat thriller and a heartfelt tribute. For audiences, it’s a chance to relive a legendary cop’s story. For Om Raut, it’s a personal homage to the tales that defined his childhood and the hero his father deeply admired.

Also Read: Inspector Zende Trailer: Netflix promises a showdown between Manoj Bajpayee and Jim Sarbh in a high-stakes cat-and-mouse chase