Bhagwat Chapter One – Raakshas Review
If you’re craving something darker, deeper, and unapologetically intense, ZEE5’s Bhagwat Chapter One – Raakshas might be exactly the monster-sized bite you’re looking for. Blending mythology, crime, horror, and brooding philosophy, this isn’t your typical mythological drama — it’s part psychological thriller, part spiritual nightmare, and it’s all-in on its own vision.
From the very first frame, Raakshas sets a tone that’s grim and unrelenting. It pulls you into a world where ancient evil isn’t just folklore — it’s flesh and blood, reincarnated and walking among us. The story wastes no time diving into spiritual warfare, ritualistic crimes, and philosophical debates about good and evil. You’re either locked in, or completely lost — and honestly, that confidence in storytelling is refreshing.
The core plot revolves around the idea of evil being reborn — not just metaphorically, but as a literal, living force. The “Raakshas” isn’t your usual cinematic villain; it’s a manifestation of rage, trauma, and twisted righteousness, wrapped in spiritual symbolism. It’s a fascinating concept, and while the film occasionally struggles under the weight of its own ambition, it’s never dull.
Visuals & Direction
Visually, Bhagwat punches way above its weight. Director Akshay Shere gives the film a distinctly cinematic look — full of moody lighting, rich textures, and frames that carry tension without saying a word. The color palette leans heavily into shadows and deep reds, enhancing the film’s oppressive atmosphere. The action is raw, not overproduced — gritty, brutal, and often uncomfortable, in a good way.
Performance-wise
The cast fully leans into the material. Arshad Warsi, as Inspector Vishwas Bhagwat, is a revelation in a more serious, restrained avatar. He sheds all traces of comic timing and delivers a performance filled with inner turmoil and quiet determination. Jitendra Kumar, playing the complex and increasingly sinister Sameer, is shockingly effective — far removed from his typical boy-next-door roles. He’s cold, mysterious, and unpredictable.
Among the supporting cast, Tara Alisha Berry brings an emotional weight that cuts through the film’s darkness, while Ayesha Kaduskar and Hemant Saini provide solid support, grounding the narrative with subtle performances. Devas Dixit adds a sharp edge of menace to the ensemble, even in limited screen time.
There’s clear intent to build out this world over multiple chapters, and the cast lays a strong foundation for what’s coming next.
The Flaws
It’s not without issues. The pacing dips in parts, especially in the second act, where exposition takes over and the mystery drags. Some characters feel like placeholders for bigger arcs in future installments, which might leave viewers feeling slightly underfed here. And while the lore is rich, it occasionally borders on convoluted — a little more clarity would’ve helped.
Final Verdict
Bhagwat Chapter One – Raakshas is ambitious, atmospheric, and a little unhinged — and that’s what makes it worth watching. It doesn’t play it safe. It experiments, it digs deep into India’s spiritual and mythological subconscious, and it gives us something that feels fresh in a sea of formulaic crime dramas.
It’s not a casual watch — it’s layered, violent, and designed to unsettle. But for viewers looking for something bold, thought-provoking, and deeply different, this first chapter lays the groundwork for what could become one of India’s most unique mythological thrillers.
Rating: 3.5/5
