ZEE5 original film, Bhagwat Chapter One: Raakshas, is now available to stream on the platform. Led by Arshad Warsi and Jitendra Kumar, it is a crime thriller set in Robertsganj, Uttar Pradesh. The story centers on Inspector Vishwas Bhagwat (Warsi) as he investigates the disappearance of a young woman named Poonam. His investigation quickly exposes a pattern of missing girls connected to a local prostitution ring.
During the investigation, Bhagwat’s path crosses with Sameer (Kumar), a seemingly mild-mannered college professor who harbours a hidden, complex identity. The film then builds psychological tension around the clash between the inspector and the professor, using their conflict to explore deeper themes of morality, justice, and the complexities of the human mind.
Early reviews for Bhagwat are mixed-to-positive. The lead performances by Warsi and Kumar are highly praised.
Arshad Warsi as Inspector Vishwas Bhagwat delivers a solid, subtle, and intense performance as a no-nonsense cop, shedding his comedic image. Whereas Jitendra Kumar, as the antagonist, Sameer, is highlighted as a revelation, impressing critics with his ability to switch between charming and chilling, effectively breaking his “good-boy” persona.
The main criticism is the movie’s second half, which reportedly loses momentum after an engaging first half. The courtroom sequences, in particular, feel forced and lacking in tension. Moreover, many critics have found the film’s climax a bit underwhelming.
Also, the songs in the film have been called unnecessary, as they break the tension. Furthermore, some critics found the film heavily relying on the performances of Warsi and Kumar, rather than focusing more on the elements of police investigation.
Bhagwat Chapter One: Raakshas is considered a decent, one-time watch, primarily powered by the strong performances of Arshad Warsi and Jitendra Kumar. However, it is seen as a missed opportunity to be a truly great crime thriller due to a predictable plot and a less-than-gripping finale. Stay tuned for more updates.
Here are some of the early reviews for Bhagwat!