Unveiling the authentic tale of Inspector Zende: Netflix delves into the rich heritage of a courageous Mumbai police officer
In the heart of India's bustling city of Mumbai, during the turbulent 1980s and 90s, a man named Madhukar Bapurao Zende was making a name for himself in the fight against the city's criminal underworld. Serving in the Mumbai Police from 1959 to 1996, Zende's reputation was built on careful planning, unshakable courage, and an ethical approach to policing.
Zende's name became known across India due to his arrests of Charles Sobhraj, a notorious serial killer also known as the 'Bikini Killer' or 'The Serpent'. His first arrest of Sobhraj was in 1971, at the Taj Hotel in Mumbai after days of surveillance. This arrest, followed by another in 1986 in Goa, cemented Zende's reputation as a relentless and formidable adversary.
The exact time of Sobhraj's second arrest by Zende was 7:45 a.m. on August 22, 1976. In the years that followed, Zende continued to tackle figures like Haji Mastan, Karim Lala, and Tiger Memon, earning him widespread respect for his calm under pressure, sharp investigative instincts, and bravery.
One of Zende's most legendary acts of bravery occurred during the 1992 post-Babri Masjid riots. Facing down a violent mob, Zende walked into the crowd alone and spoke to local youth to calm tensions, rescuing a trapped police vehicle in the process. This act of bravery remains legendary within the force.
The Netflix film, inspired by Zende's life, has sparked renewed interest in his real-life career and philosophy. Manoj Bajpayee brings Zende's quiet intensity to life, portraying not just the adrenaline of police work but the ethical dilemmas and moral strength behind the badge.
After Sobhraj escaped from Tihar Jail, Zende tracked him down using a mix of intuition and groundwork. Identifying the motorcycle Sobhraj was riding and monitoring restaurant telephone usage, Zende's unwavering determination led to Sobhraj's eventual capture.
Zende's legacy continues to inspire, a testament to a life dedicated to upholding the law and protecting the people of Mumbai. His story serves as a reminder of the courage and integrity that can be found in the heart of a true hero.
