Devkhel – Marathi Crime Thriller on ZEE5
Marathi storytelling has always had a strong grip on realism, and Devkhel takes that strength into darker, more unsettling territory. Now streaming on ZEE5, this Marathi-language crime thriller drama blends folklore, fear, and investigation into a gripping narrative that keeps viewers questioning what is myth and what is truth.
Set in the mysterious village of Devtali, the series revolves around a chilling tradition. Every year during Holi, a death occurs, and the villagers firmly believe it is the work of the mythical demon Shankasur. Over time, fear turns into faith, and superstition replaces logic. However, when another death shakes the village, the cycle is finally challenged.
A Crime Rooted in Faith and Fear
The story takes a sharp turn with the arrival of Inspector Vishwas Saranjame, a grounded and sharp-minded police officer who refuses to accept divine punishment as an explanation. As he begins investigating the latest death, layers of secrets slowly unravel. While the villagers cling to ancient beliefs, Vishwas digs deeper into human motives, hidden crimes, and uncomfortable truths.
As the investigation progresses, the series smartly explores how blind faith can be manipulated. Moreover, it questions how fear can silence logic in close-knit communities. With each episode, the tension escalates, making the audience doubt everyone — including those who seem innocent.
Powerful Performances That Drive the Series
One of Devkhel’s biggest strengths lies in its cast, who bring emotional depth and authenticity to the story.
- Ankush Chaudhari delivers a compelling performance as Inspector Vishwas Saranjame, balancing authority, empathy, and inner conflict with ease. His portrayal anchors the entire series.
- Prajakta Mali adds emotional weight to the narrative, portraying a character deeply affected by the village’s traditions and hidden truths.
- Veena Jamkar impresses with a nuanced performance that reflects fear, belief, and quiet strength.
- Mangesh Desai brings intensity and unpredictability, adding to the show’s suspense.
- Yatin Karyekar lends gravitas with his seasoned screen presence, making his character both influential and mysterious.
- Onkar Bhojane supports the narrative with a realistic and grounded performance that fits seamlessly into the village setting.
Together, the cast elevates the series, ensuring that every emotional beat feels authentic rather than exaggerated.
Direction and Writing That Keep You Hooked
Directed by Chandrakant Gaikwad, Devkhel maintains a tense and immersive atmosphere throughout. The pacing allows the mystery to build naturally, while the rural setting adds to the eerie mood. Meanwhile, writers Nikhil Palande and Gaurav Relekar craft a narrative that smartly balances crime investigation with social commentary.
Instead of relying on jump scares, the series uses psychological tension, making the fear feel real and deeply rooted in human behavior.
Why Devkhel Is Worth Watching
If you enjoy crime thrillers that go beyond surface-level mysteries, Devkhel is a must-watch. It is not just about solving a crime; it is about confronting belief systems, questioning traditions, and understanding how fear can control an entire community. Furthermore, the strong performances and atmospheric storytelling make it one of the more engaging Marathi series currently streaming.
Ultimately, Devkhel proves that the most terrifying demons are often not mythical — they are human.
