 "From Arshad Warsi's 'Bhagwat' to Shefali Shah's 'Delhi Crime' on Netflix- Shows that portray real-life crimes")
True crime stories hold a magnetic allure — they expose the darker corners of our society while shining a light on resilience, truth, and the pursuit of justice. Over the years, Indian filmmakers and storytellers have drawn from real-life incidents that shook the nation, transforming them into gripping narratives that compel viewers to think, question, and empathize.
Here are five acclaimed films and series inspired by true events that unravel the complex intersection of crime, conscience, and justice in India:
Bhagwat [ZEE5]
Inspired by true events, Bhagwat: Chapter One – Raakshas follows a gritty police investigation into the disappearance of several young girls in a small town in Uttar Pradesh. What appears to be a straightforward disappearance soon reveals a sinister trail of secrets, cruelty, and moral corruption.
Delhi Crime [Netflix]
Based on the 2012 Delhi gang rape case that shook the nation, Delhi Crime remains one of India’s most powerful police procedurals. Led by Shefali Shah as DCP Vartika Chaturvedi, the series meticulously traces the investigation that led to the arrest of the perpetrators. Beyond its procedural precision, Delhi Crime humanizes the police force — capturing the emotional strain and moral weight carried by those seeking justice in a fractured system.
Manvat Murders [Sony LIV]
Inspired by one of Maharashtra’s most chilling serial killings, Manvat Murders dives deep into the disturbing psyche of a killer and the slow, methodical investigation that exposes the crime. The series explores how socio-economic despair, superstition, and systemic neglect intertwine to create an ecosystem where violence thrives. Gritty and unsettling, it offers an unflinching look at the darker realities of India’s heartlands.
Dancing on the Grave [Amazon Prime Video]
This riveting docuseries revisits the shocking disappearance and murder of Shakereh Khaleeli in 1990s Bengaluru — a case that stunned India. Combining archival footage, interviews, and dramatized recreations, Dancing on the Grave unearths a chilling tale of deceit, privilege, and betrayal. It not only reconstructs the crime but also examines how wealth and power can distort the scales of justice.
Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai [ZEE5]
Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai celebrates the courage of one man who takes on a powerful godman accused of heinous crimes. Inspired by real legal proceedings, Manoj Bajpayee delivers a stellar performance as a lawyer whose unwavering faith in truth and justice becomes an emblem of moral strength. This courtroom drama is a powerful reminder that integrity — even in one person — can bring an empire of deceit to its knees.