Introduction
Rangbaaz is a critically acclaimed Indian web series that takes viewers on an exciting journey through India's underworld. Produced by JAR Pictures and directed by Bhav Dhulia, the series is inspired by the real-life events of a notorious gangster from Uttar Pradesh named Shiv Prakash Shukla, who operated during the 1990s.
The show premiered on ZEE5 in December 2018, and it has been praised for its gripping storyline, exceptional performances, and strong direction.Set in the backdrop of Gorakhpur, a small town in Uttar Pradesh, Rangbaaz follows the life of Shiv Prakash Shukla, played by Saqib Saleem. Shiv begins as an ambitious young man who aspires to be a police officer, but he is drawn into the world of crime when he becomes involved in a land dispute with a local goon. Soon, he becomes embroiled in the politics of the town, and he rises through the ranks to become one of the most feared gangsters in the region.
The series also features an ensemble cast of talented actors, including Tigmanshu Dhulia, Ranvir Shorey, Ravi Kishan , and Aahana Kumra, who deliver powerful performances that bring the characters to life. The writing is top-notch, with a well-crafted screenplay that keeps the audience engaged throughout the series. The show also features impressive production values, with detailed sets and costumes that transport viewers to the 1990s.
Overall, Rangbaaz is a must-watch for anyone who enjoys crime dramas or is interested in the criminal underworld of India. With its compelling storyline, exceptional performances, and strong direction, the show has garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated fan following.
Table Of Content
Details
Genre
Action, Crime, Biography
Directed by
Bhav Dhulia
Starring
Saqib Saleem, Aahana Kumra, Tigmanshu Dhulia, Ravi Kishan, Ranvir Shorey, Jimmy Sheirgill, Sushant Singh, Gul Panag, Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub
Composer
Roby Abraham
Country of origin
India
Original language
Hindi
No. of seasons
3
No. of episodes
24 (list of episodes)
Genre
action-thriller
Running Time
45 min each episode
Executive producers
Muhitt Agarwaal, Rakesh Bhagwani, Ajay Rai, Vinamrata Rai, Vinay G. Rai, Rahul Rawat, Vishwankar Pathania, Pankaj Batra, Ankur B. Saraiya
Production location
India
Cinematography
Tojo Xavier
Editor
Nandkishor
Production company
JAR Pictures
Distributor
ZEE5
Original network
ZEE5
Picture format
HDTV
1080i
Original release
22 December 2018
Plot
VIDEO
Rangbaaz is a Hindi-language crime thriller web series that spans three seasons. The series is loosely based on real-life events and follows the rise and fall of gangsters in India's underworld.
Season 1
The first season of Rangbaaz introduces us to Shiv Prakash Shukla, a young man from a small town in Uttar Pradesh. Shiv dreams of making it big in the world of crime and soon becomes a powerful gangster. He is ruthless and has no qualms about killing anyone in his way. However, Shiv's ambition and power soon attract the attention of the police, and he becomes the target of a dedicated officer named Siddharth Pandey. As Shiv and Siddharth engage in a dangerous cat-and-mouse game, the body count rises, and the stakes increase.
Season 2
The second season of Rangbaaz takes us to Rajasthan, where we meet Anandpal Singh, a feared gangster on the run for years. Anandpal is a Robin Hood-like figure loved by the people but hunted by the police. The season explores Anandpal's rise to power, his battles with rival gangs, and his relationship with his wife, who is determined to protect him at all costs. As Anandpal becomes increasingly reckless, he draws the attention of the police, who are determined to bring him to justice.
Season 3
The third season of Rangbaaz is set in Kolkata and introduces us to a new protagonist, Ravi Shankar Shukla, who is unrelated to Shiv Prakash Shukla from the first season. Ravi is a young man who dreams of becoming a police officer but is forced to join a gang after a corrupt politician betrays his family. Ravi soon becomes embroiled in the world of crime and finds himself torn between his loyalty to his gang and his desire to do the right thing. As Ravi navigates the dangerous underworld of Kolkata, he must also confront his demons and make a choice that will determine his fate.
Throughout the three seasons, Rangbaaz explores the themes of power, loyalty, betrayal, and redemption in the context of India's underworld. The series features a talented cast, including Saqib Saleem, Jimmy Sheirgill, Gul Panag, Sharad Kelkar, and Sushant Singh.
Release
Rangbaaz is a Hindi-language crime thriller web series premiered on December 22, 2018, on the streaming platform ZEE5. The series was produced by JAR Pictures and directed by Bhav Dhulia. It consists of 9 episodes, each with a runtime of approximately 45 minutes.
The series aired every week on Saturday at 12:00 PM IST, with all episodes being released on the same day of its premiere. It was also available for streaming on ZEE5's mobile app and website.
Rangbaaz received critical acclaim for its gripping storyline, strong cast performances, and realistic portrayal of the world of crime and politics in Uttar Pradesh. It was later dubbed in multiple languages and made available for streaming on other platforms, including Amazon Prime Video. Overall, Rangbaaz was a major success and established itself as one of India's most popular and critically acclaimed web series.
Cast
Season 1
Saqib Saleem as Shiv Prakash Shukla - Saqib Saleem is an Indian actor known for his versatile roles in Bollywood. He made his debut with 'Mujhse Fraaandship Karoge' and impressed in 'Dishoom' and 'Race 3 .'
Tigmanshu Dhulia as Ram Shankar Tiwari - Tigmanshu Dhulia is an acclaimed Indian filmmaker known for his powerful storytelling and unique style. His notable works include Haasil, Paan Singh Tomar , Saheb Biwi Aur Gangster, and Bullett Raja .
Ranvir Shorey as Sidharth Pandey- Ranvir Shorey, an Indian actor known for his versatile performances, has a prolific career spanning both mainstream and indie films. Notable works include Khosla Ka Ghosla
Aahana Kumra as Babita Sharma- Aahana Kumra is an Indian actress known for her versatile performances in both films and television. She gained recognition for her roles in films like Lipstick Under My Burkha
Jay Saumik Joshi as Abhishek- Jay Saumik Joshi is a versatile actor known for his captivating performances in Bollywood. With immense talent and dedication, he continues to impress audiences worldwide.
Ravi Kishan as Chandra Bhan Singh- Ravi Kishan, an acclaimed Indian actor, began his career in Bhojpuri cinema and swiftly transitioned to Bollywood. Notable films include Devdas , Raavan, and Mukkabaaz.
Arun Kalra as Narendra Shahi
Chandan Anand as Ranjan Tiwari- Chandan Anand is an Indian actor known for his versatile performances in both Bollywood and television. He has showcased his talent in films like Kaminey, Force 2, and Satyamev Jayate .
Pawan Chopra as Director General of Police
Bharat Chawla as Sushant
Saurabh Goyal as Host of India's Most Wanted
Gaurav Mishra as Munna Shukla
Ankur B. Saraiya as Bangkok Goon
Daya Shankar Pandey as Mahavir
Ajay Singh as Morena Vidhayak
Atul Pandey as Tanuj Pratap Singh
Season 2
Jimmy Shergill as Amar Pal Singh - Jimmy Shergill , an Indian actor, made his mark in Bollywood with notable performances in Mohabbatein , Mere Yaar Ki Shaadi Hai, and Yahaan.
Sharad Kelkar as Raja Phogat- Sharad Kelkar is an accomplished Indian actor known for his work in Bollywood and Marathi cinema. He gained recognition for his roles in films like Goliyon Ki Raasleela Ram-Leela, Lai Bhaari, Bhoomi, and Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior.
Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub as Sanjay Singh Meena - Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub is an Indian actor known for his versatile performances in Bollywood films. His notable works include roles in Raanjhanaa, Tanu Weds Manu Returns, Article 15 , and Zero .
Mahima Makwana as Vaishali- Mahima Makwana is a talented Indian actor known for her impressive performances in television shows and films. She gained recognition for her roles in TV serials like Sapne Suhane Ladakpan Ke
Gul Panag as Anupriya- Gul Panag is an Indian actor renowned for her versatile roles in Bollywood and regional cinema. She has appeared in films like Dor, Dhoop, Manorama Six Feet Under.
Sushant Singh as Jai Ram Godara
Harsh Chhaya as Sundar Singh Chauhan- Harsh Chhaya is an Indian actor known for his versatile performances in Bollywood and television. He has appeared in films like Fashion, Bhool Bhulaiyaa , and Corporate.
Chetan Pandit as Home Minister Ahlawat- Chetan Pandit is an Indian actor known for his versatile performances in Bollywood and television. He has appeared in films such as Raajneeti .
Amit Sial as Balram Rathi- Amit Sial is an Indian actor known for his versatile performances in films and web series. His notable works include Titli , Raid, Inside Edge, and Jamtara - Sabka Number Ayega .
Spruha Joshi as Rukmini, wife of Amar Pal- Spruha Joshi is an acclaimed Indian actor known for her versatile performances in Marathi cinema. She has delivered captivating roles in films like Morya
Sonam Arora as Madhu Godavari, wife of Jai Ram
Ujjwal Chopra as Harjiram
Season 3
Viineet Kumar as Shah Ali Baig- Viineet Kumar, a talented Indian actor, has had a remarkable career with versatile performances. Known for his roles in Gangs of Wasseypur, Mukkabaaz.
Aakanksha Singh as Sana - Aakanksha Singh is an Indian actor known for her versatile performances in television and films. She gained popularity with her role in the TV series Na Bole Tum Na Maine Kuch Kaha
Teetu Verma as Dinesh Singh
Crew
Directed by Bhav Dhulia
Starring by Saqib Saleem, Aahana Kumra, Tigmanshu Dhulia, Ravi Kishan, Ranvir Shorey, Jimmy Sheirgill, Sushant Singh, Gul Panag, Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub
Composed by Roby Abraham
Produced by Rakesh Bhagwani, Ajay Rai, Vinamrata Rai, Vinay G. Rai, Rahul Rawat, Vishwankar Pathania, Pankaj Batra, Ankur B. Saraiya
Production company JAR Pictures
Character Analysis
Shiv Prakash Shukla (played by Saqib Saleem): Shiv is the lead character in the series, a young man from a small town in Uttar Pradesh who becomes involved in the world of crime and politics. He is portrayed as a complex character with both good and bad qualities. On the one hand, he is fiercely loyal to his friends and family and is willing to do whatever it takes to protect them. On the other hand, he is ruthless and violent, willing to use any means necessary to achieve his goals.
Anupriya Patel (played by Aahana Kumra): Anupriya is a politician and Shiv's love interest. She is portrayed as a strong, independent woman willing to fight for her beliefs. However, she is also shown to be manipulative and willing to compromise her values for the sake of political gain.
Ram Shankar Tiwari (played by Tigmanshu Dhulia): Ram is a powerful politician who is Shiv's mentor and father figure. He is portrayed as a shrewd and calculating leader willing to use any means necessary to maintain his position of power.
Sushant (played by Ranvir Shorey): Sushant is Shiv's childhood friend and accomplice in his criminal activities. He is portrayed as a loyal and dependable friend and prone to making impulsive decisions that can lead to trouble.
Salim (played by Ravi Kishan): Salim is a gangster and Shiv's main rival. He is portrayed as a brutal leader willing to do whatever it takes to eliminate his enemies.
Overall, the characters in Rangbaaz are complex and multi-dimensional, with their strengths and weaknesses. The series does an excellent job of exploring the motivations and backstories of each character and showing how their choices and actions ultimately lead to their fates.
Season and Episodes
Season
Episode Name
Duration
Release Date
1
Gangster ka Mobile phone!
44 min
22 December 2018
1
Coming-of-Age
38 min
22 December 2018
1
Bhiksha, Shiksha aur Diksha
38 min
22 December 2018
1
Naam Hai Ram Shankar Tiwari!
38 min
22 December 2018
1
Shiv Prakash Kiske Saath Hai?
36 min
22 December 2018
1
Mata Ka Jagrata
38 min
22 December 2018
1
Apaharan
38 min
22 December 2018
1
National Level ka Criminal
35 min
22 December 2018
1
Climax
35 min
22 December 2018
Season
Episode Name
Duration
Release Date
2
Power Game
37 min
20 December 2019
2
Sabki Samadhi Yahi Banegi
40 min
20 December 2019
2
Dhande Ka Ganit
45 min
20 December 2019
2
Over And Out
45 min
20 December 2019
2
Savdhani Hati, Durghatna Ghati
45 min
20 December 2019
2
Chakravyuh Hai, Phans Jaayega
47 min
20 December 2019
2
Girgit Rang Birang
40 min
20 December 2019
2
Do Aur Do Paanch
45 min
20 December 2019
2
Surrender
45 min
20 December 2019
Season
Episode Name
Duration
Release Date
3
Shakti
45 min
29 July 2022
3
Samman
40 min
29 July 2022
3
Parchhayee
40 min
29 July 2022
3
Saam Daam Dand Bhed
40 min
29 July 2022
3
Pratishodh
35 min
29 July 2022
3
Chakravyooh
47 min
29 July 2022
Behind the scene VIDEO
The show's creator, Siddharth Mishra, spent several years researching the real-life story of Shri Prakash Shukla before developing the script for the series.
The series was shot on location in various parts of Uttar Pradesh, including Lucknow, Kanpur, and Muzaffarnagar.
Saqib Saleem, who played the lead role of Shiv Prakash Shukla, underwent extensive physical training to prepare for the role. He also met with people who knew Shukla in real life to understand the character better.
The series features an impressive ensemble cast and many well-known actors in India. The casting process took several months to complete, as the creators were looking for actors who could bring authenticity to their roles.
The production team paid close attention to details, including costumes, props, and set design, to accurately depict the 1990s in India.
Overall, the Rangbaaz web series was a massive undertaking requiring much research, planning, and execution. The creators and cast were dedicated to bringing an authentic and compelling story to life. Their efforts paid off in the form of critical acclaim and widespread popularity among audiences.
Spoilers
The third season shifts its focus away from Lalu Prasad Yadav, drawing attention instead to Beig, capturing the trajectory from his early years in the 1980s to his later life in the 2010s, with a particular emphasis on the 1990s and 2000s decades where significant political developments unfold in his life. The story navigates Beig's tumultuous journey as he juggles with power and moral constraints.
Review
User Review
The lead performances, particularly by Saqib Saleem and Jimmy Shergill, were praised for their intensity and conviction. However, the reviews also indicated that extensive character-building and non-linear storytelling may affect the overall pacing and continuity, making it seem slow-paced in parts.
Supporting actors like Tigmanshu Dhulia, Ranvir Shorey, and Ravi Kishan were given the nod for their competent performances. Certain negative reviews mentioned that the series could have added more depth by slowing down its rapid narrative pace and investing in more drama, but it was generally agreed that Rangbaaz is a high-quality series that stands out from the rest. A few critics also pointed out the overuse of makeup and wardrobe choices in different seasons as inconsistencies within the series.
Tring Review
Rangbaaz, an Indian crime drama web series available on ZEE5, offers viewers a thrilling insight into the ruthless criminal underworld. The uniqueness of this series lies in its basing on the real-life stories of notorious Indian gangsters, making it a particularly intriguing watch for fans of true-crime narratives.Each season of Rangbaaz uncovers a gripping tale of ambition, power, politics, and crime painted in varying shades of moral ambiguity. Instead of following a linear storytelling pattern, the series adopts a scattered timeline, artfully incorporating flashbacks to reveal characters’ backstories and motives. All in all, Rangbaaz is a riveting series that leaves a significant imprint within the Indian digital space's true crime genre. While it does have certain flaws, they are overshadowed by its compelling narrative, outstanding performances, and tactful handling of sensitive real-life crime stories.
Tring Rating : 3.5/5
Awards
Award
Category
Year
Nominee
Result
Filmfare OTT Awards
Best Actor in a Drama Series (Male)
2020
Saqib Saleem
Nominated
Filmfare OTT Awards
Best Actor in a Supporting Role (Female)
2020
Aahana Kumra
Nominated
Filmfare OTT Awards
Best Original Story
2020
Rangbaaz
Nominated
iReel Awards
Best Actor in a Drama Series (Male)
2019
Saqib Saleem
Nominated
iReel Awards
Best Actor in a Supporting Role (Female)
2019
Aahana Kumra
Won
iReel Awards
Best Writing (Drama)
2019
Rangbaaz
Nominated
iReel Awards
Best Directing (Drama)
2019
Rangbaaz
Nominated
Indian Television Academy Awards
Best Actor in a Lead Role (Jury)
2019
Saqib Saleem
Won
Indian Television Academy Awards
Best Actor in a Supporting Role (Jury)
2019
Tigmanshu Dhulia
Nominated
Indian Television Academy Awards
Best Director (Jury)
2019
Bhav Dhulia
Nominated
Indian Television Academy Awards
Best Series (Jury)
2019
Rangbaaz
Nominated
Film Critics Guild Awards
Best Actor in a Web Original Series
2019
Saqib Saleem
Nominated
Film Critics Guild Awards
Best Supporting Actress in a Web Original Series
2019
Aahana Kumra
Nominated
Film Critics Guild Awards
Best Writing in a Web Original Series
2019
Rangbaaz
Nominated
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