“Rangbaaz” is an Indian crime drama web series that premiered on ZEE5 in December 2018. Spanning three seasons, the series delves into the lives of notorious gangsters from different regions of India, exploring their rise, reign, and the intricate nexus between crime and politics. Each season introduces a new storyline inspired by real-life figures, brought to life by a talented ensemble cast.
Season 1:
The inaugural season is set against the backdrop of Gorakhpur in the 1990s, chronicling the transformation of a young man into one of the most feared gangsters in Uttar Pradesh.
- Saqib Saleem as Shiv Prakash Shukla: Saqib portrays the protagonist, a college student whose descent into the world of crime is both compelling and tragic. His nuanced performance captures the complexities of a man torn between ambition and morality.
- Tigmanshu Dhulia as Ram Shankar Tiwari: A seasoned politician with deep-rooted connections in the criminal underworld, Tiwari’s character is pivotal in shaping Shiv Prakash’s journey. Dhulia’s portrayal adds gravitas to the narrative.
- Ranvir Shorey as Siddharth Pandey: An upright and determined police officer, Pandey is relentless in his pursuit of justice. Shorey’s depiction of a law enforcer battling systemic corruption is both intense and authentic.
- Aahana Kumra as Babita Sharma: Babita’s relationship with Shiv Prakash adds an emotional layer to the storyline, highlighting the personal costs of a life entrenched in crime. Kumra delivers a performance that is both heartfelt and impactful.
- Ravi Kishan as Chandra Bhan Singh: A rival gangster, Singh’s character introduces conflict and tension, driving the narrative forward. Kishan’s portrayal is both menacing and charismatic.
Season 2: “Rangbaaz Phirse”:
The second season shifts focus to Rajasthan, drawing inspiration from the life of a gangster-turned-politician, exploring themes of power, revenge, and redemption.
- Jimmy Sheirgill as Amarpal Singh: Sheirgill embodies Amarpal, a man whose quest for power leads him down a perilous path. His portrayal captures the internal and external conflicts of a gangster navigating the political landscape.
- Gul Panag as Anupriya: Anupriya’s character is instrumental in Amarpal’s life, influencing his decisions and adding depth to his personal narrative. Panag’s performance is both strong and nuanced.
- Sharad Kelkar as Raja Phogat: A formidable adversary, Phogat’s rivalry with Amarpal intensifies the drama. Kelkar’s commanding screen presence enhances the character’s impact.
- Sushant Singh as Jairam Godara: A mentor-like figure, Godara’s relationship with Amarpal adds complexity to the storyline. Singh’s portrayal brings depth and authenticity to the role.
- Spruha Joshi as Rukmini: Rukmini, Amarpal’s wife, provides a glimpse into his softer side, highlighting the personal sacrifices made in the pursuit of power. Joshi’s performance is both touching and compelling.
Season 3: “Rangbaaz: Darr Ki Rajneeti”:
The third installment is set in Bihar, inspired by the life of a gangster-turned-politician, delving into the interplay of crime and politics in the region.
- Vineet Kumar Singh as Haroon Shah Ali Baig: Singh portrays Baig, a complex character whose journey from a feared gangster to a political figure is fraught with challenges. His performance is both powerful and nuanced, capturing the intricacies of a man balancing dual identities.
- Aakanksha Singh as Sana Ali Baig: Sana, Baig’s supportive yet strong-willed wife, plays a crucial role in his life and political career. Aakanksha’s portrayal adds emotional depth to the narrative, highlighting the personal dynamics behind the public persona.
- Geetanjali Kulkarni as Aahilya Devi: A seasoned politician, Aahilya Devi’s interactions with Baig shed light on the complexities of political alliances and rivalries. Kulkarni’s performance is both commanding and insightful.
- Prashant Narayanan as Raghav Kumar: A key antagonist, Raghav Kumar’s character introduces conflict and tension, challenging Baig’s ascent in the political arena. Narayanan’s portrayal is intense and impactful.
- Rajesh Tailang as Mukul Kumar: A journalist determined to uncover the truth, Mukul Kumar’s character adds an element of intrigue and investigation to the storyline. Tailang’s performance is both earnest and compelling.
“Rangbaaz” has been lauded for its gripping storytelling, complex characterizations, and stellar performances. The series offers a nuanced portrayal of the socio-political landscapes of different Indian states, highlighting the intricate connections between crime and politics. Each season stands out for its authentic depiction of regional nuances, compelling narratives, and strong ensemble casts, making “Rangbaaz” a standout series in the Indian digital entertainment space.
For viewers interested in crime dramas that delve into the depths of human ambition, morality, and the socio-political fabric of India, “Rangbaaz” presents a compelling watch that is both thought-provoking and entertaining.
Hina Abbasi is Editor and a passionate sports and entertainment content writer at WinnersMaze.com. Hina’s expertise spans across a wide range of sports, and interest in many TV shows allowing her to deliver insightful analysis and compelling stories that resonate with readers.