ZEE5 Marathi has released the official trailer for its upcoming original series Devkhel (देवखेळ), a psychological crime thriller rooted in the folk mythology of Maharashtra’s Konkan region. Produced by Cine Masters Production Pvt Ltd, the series is scheduled to premiere exclusively on ZEE5 on January 30, 2026.
Directed by Chandrakant Lata Gaikwad and written by Nikhil Palande and Gaurav Relekar, Devkhel blends crime investigation with folklore, superstition, and psychological drama. The trailer introduces a narrative set against the backdrop of Shimga (Holi) festivities in the coastal village of Devtali, Ratnagiri, where an unexplained death occurs every year on Holi Pournima. The villagers believe the deaths are acts of divine justice delivered by Shankasur, a local mythical figure revered as a supernatural judge.
The series follows Inspector Vishwas Saranjame, played by Ankush Chaudhari, who arrives in Devtali to investigate the recurring deaths. Grounded in logic and evidence-based policing, the character challenges the village’s belief-driven system, suspecting human crime behind what is widely accepted as divine punishment. The central narrative conflict unfolds between faith-driven fear and rational inquiry.
Speaking about his role, Ankush Chaudhari described the series as more than a conventional whodunit, emphasizing the character’s internal struggle while navigating a community governed by superstition. He noted that the role demanded emotional restraint and intensity, with the story exploring the collision between belief and reason.
Director Chandrakant Lata Gaikwad said the project was inspired by fascination with the Shankasur folk tradition, where justice is perceived as divine rather than institutional. He added that the series examines how belief systems, fear, and trauma can transform human behavior into myth-making, positioning Devkhel as both a crime thriller and a psychological study. Gaikwad also acknowledged ZEE5 Marathi for supporting the creative vision without dilution.
Actor Prajaktta Mali, who plays a pivotal role, highlighted the emotional and cultural layers of the narrative. She noted that the story reflects how belief systems can influence fear, silence, and guilt within a community, adding that her character exists within a delicate balance of ritual, dread, and unspoken truths.
The supporting cast includes Yatin Karyekar, Arun Nalavade, Veena Jamkar, and Mangesh Desai. With its fusion of crime investigation, regional folklore, and psychological tension, Devkhel is positioned as a distinctive addition to ZEE5 Marathi’s original content slate.
Devkhel (देवखेळ) begins streaming on ZEE5 from January 30, 2026.