Devkhel trailer has finally dropped, and it promises one of the darkest psychological crime stories ever attempted in Marathi OTT space. According to industry sources, ZEE5’s upcoming original series dares to explore a terrifying intersection of myth, superstition, and murder—set deep within Konkan’s haunting cultural landscape. Fans noticed instantly that this is not just another crime thriller, but a slow-burning psychological descent where belief replaces law. Headlined by Ankush Chaudhari and Prajaktta Mali, Devkhel (देवखेळ) premieres on January 30, 2026, exclusively on ZEE5.
Devkhel Trailer Reveals a Disturbing Psychological World
The Devkhel trailer wastes no time establishing its unsettling tone. Set during the vibrant yet ominous Shimga (Holi) festival, the visuals contrast celebration with dread. Blood-red gulal, rhythmic drums, and fearful silence coexist, creating an atmosphere where danger feels ritualistic rather than accidental.
Unlike conventional crime thrillers, Devkhel does not rely on jump scares. Instead, it builds discomfort through belief-driven violence, where villagers accept death as divine justice.
Shankasur Myth: When Faith Becomes Fear
At the heart of Devkhel lies the legend of Shankasur, a mythical figure believed to punish sinners every Holi Pournima. The village of Devtali in Ratnagiri has accepted this cycle of death for generations.
Every year, someone dies.
No questions.
No investigations.
The trailer suggests these deaths may not be divine at all—but something far more human and terrifying.
Ankush Chaudhari’s Devkhel Role Is a Battle Against Belief
Ankush Chaudhari plays Inspector Vishwas Saranjame, a man guided by evidence, not emotion. In a recent statement, the actor revealed that Devkhel challenged him psychologically more than physically.
“This is not a simple whodunit. Vishwas is fighting centuries of belief, not just a criminal,” Chaudhari explained.
His character walks a dangerous line—investigating murder in a place where questioning faith is considered a crime itself. The Devkhel trailer shows him isolated, threatened, and mentally tested at every step.
Prajaktta Mali Brings Emotional Depth to Devkhel
Prajaktta Mali plays a pivotal character shaped by fear, silence, and inherited trauma. Her performance, as hinted in the trailer, is restrained yet haunting.
Speaking about the series, Mali shared:
“Devkhel reflects a reality where belief systems suppress truth. My character lives within that fear.”
Her role represents the emotional cost of superstition—how traditions can imprison minds long before bodies.
Director Chandrakant Gaikwad Explains Devkhel’s Core Theme
Director Chandrakant Lata Gaikwad describes Devkhel as a psychological exploration rather than a straightforward crime drama.
“We wanted to show how myths are created—not by gods, but by fear and trauma,” he said.
Gaikwad credits ZEE5 Marathi for allowing the team to tell the story without dilution, preserving cultural authenticity while pushing narrative boundaries.
Devkhel Cast, Writers & Creative Team
Produced by Cine Masters Production Pvt Ltd, Devkhel is written by Nikhil Palande and Gaurav Relekar.
Main Cast
- Ankush Chaudhari
- Prajaktta Mali
- Yatin Karyekar
- Arun Nalavade
- Veena Jamkar
- Mangesh Desai
The Konkan setting isn’t just a backdrop—it’s a character in itself, steeped in folklore and unease.
Devkhel OTT Release Date & Where to Watch
- Series Name: Devkhel (देवखेळ)
- Platform: ZEE5
- Release Date: January 30, 2026
- Language: Marathi
Why Devkhel Could Be ZEE5 Marathi’s Darkest Series Yet
With its focus on ritualistic killings, psychological trauma, and cultural mythology, Devkhel positions itself alongside globally acclaimed folk-horror crime dramas.
The Devkhel trailer makes one thing clear:
This is not a story about gods.
It’s about what humans do in their name.
