Bhagwat Chapter One: Raakshas first look poster - Arshad Warsi and Jitendra Kumar lead a dark investigation into a sinister mystery

Jitendra Kumar sheds his "Jeetu Bhaiya" persona for the ZEE5 suspense film Bhagwat Chapter One: Raakshas starring with Arshad Warsi.

Bhagwat Chapter One: Raakshas first look poster

OTT is set to witness a new suspense thriller with the announcement of the ZEE5 (OTTplay Premium) original film, Bhagwat Chapter One: Raakshas. Much anticipation has built around the announcement of the film's title, which alludes to a murky and complex plot involving criminals and an intriguing investigation.

First look reveals lead cast and central mystery

The promotional footage prominently features the lead actors, Jitendra Kumar and Arshad Warsi. Warsi dons a police officer's uniform, his mirrored sunglasses reflecting the bustling cityscape below. This picture stands next to Jitendra Kumar's face, suggesting a major, potentially antagonistic, dynamic between the two of them. Multiple photos of young women taped to a wall serve as the poster's backdrop, suggesting either a serial murder or a case of missing persons, the plot's central mystery.

Featuring Akshay Shere at the helm, Chapter One: Raakshas gives the impression that the film is the beginning part of what may be a lengthy franchise centred on a villain or a string of tragic occurrences.

ALSO READ: Jitendra Kumar on Bhagwat: My move to thrillers is 'expanding' my image, not 'breaking away'

Strong cast promises high-octane drama

The pairing of Warsi, who effortlessly transitions between comic and serious roles, and Kumar, renowned in the OTT for his nuanced portrayals, is expected to attract a significant audience. Their combined star power implies a storyline that will skilfully blend intricate character development with incisive investigative drama.

"People have mostly seen me in roles that are warm and relatable. So, stepping into a genre that relies on tension and unpredictability was exciting," Kumar says, clearly signalling a change from his usual, more approachable roles.

Embracing intense and internal energy

"It was about discovering a new kind of energy, one that is more intense and internal," Kumar said of taking on this job, explaining that it was all about embracing a new challenge for him. "There were nerves. That’s a good sign because it means I care about what I’m doing," he added.

When asked about the script, Kumar said it was a "page turner" and that he was engrossed in it from the very beginning. He added, "The story has that rare quality where you’re constantly guessing what’s going to happen next."

Release date speculation

There will likely be further announcements regarding the plot, supporting actors, and release date in the following weeks. However, it's being reported that the film is likely to stream on ZEE5 (OTTplay Premium) beginning October 17, 2025.

FAQs:

Q: Who are the main actors in Bhagwat Chapter One: Raakshas?

A: The main cast is led by renowned actors Arshad Warsi and Jitendra Kumar. Warsi appears to play a police officer, while Kumar takes on an 'intense and internal' role, marking a deliberate shift from his previous warm and relatable characters.

Q: Where will Bhagwat Chapter One: Raakshas be released?

A: The film is confirmed to be a ZEE5 original film, meaning it will be released exclusively on the ZEE5 digital streaming platform.

Q: Is Bhagwat Chapter One: Raakshas the start of a series?

A: Yes, the title, specifically including "Chapter One: Raakshas," strongly suggests the film is the first instalment in a potentially long-running franchise. The series is expected to focus on a sinister antagonist or a sequence of dark events.

Share