Vijay Raghavendra stars in Rakshasa. (Photo: X)
Kannada audiences are in for a treat as Vijay Raghavendra headlines Rakshasa, a seven-part psychological crime thriller that brings the unique culture of North Karnataka to the digital screen.
Directed by Suhan Prasad and produced by Tharun Sudhir Productions, the series blends crime, mythology, and psychological drama, promising a gripping viewing experience. Rakshasa premieres on ZEE5 on 20 February 2026 and is also available on OTTplay Premium.
The story follows Sub-Inspector Hanmappa, a diligent and principled officer investigating a string of mysterious deaths near the Yellamma temple in Savadatti.
Initially believed to be crocodile attacks, the investigation uncovers deeper, human-made threats, forcing Hanmappa to navigate a complex world where faith, fear, and crime collide.
The series explores the clash between rational investigation and deep-rooted spiritual beliefs, offering suspense, emotional depth, and psychological intensity.
Alongside Vijay Raghavendra, the main cast includes Mayuri, Avinash, Malavika, Appanna, and Abhijith. Suhan Prasad directs, with Apoorva co-writing the script. At the trailer launch, Vijay Raghavendra shared that he was drawn to the series’ “quiet intensity, emotional pauses, and the moral dilemma faced by Hanmappa.”
Rakshasa is the fourth Kannada original series from ZEE5, following hits like Ayyana Mane, Shodha, and Maarigallu. The series is a remake of the Tamil thriller Vilangu (2022) and also inspired the Hindi version Janaawar: The Beast Within. ZEE5 Kannada aims to showcase Karnataka’s diverse regions, with Rakshasa set in North Karnataka, offering viewers a slice of local culture alongside intense storytelling.
OTT Platform: ZEE5 (also on OTTplay Premium)
Premiere Date: 20 February 2026
Episodes: 7, each 20–25 minutes
With a combination of crime, mythology, psychological tension, and North Karnataka’s local flavor, Rakshasa promises to be a landmark Kannada web series. Fans of Vijay Raghavendra and thriller enthusiasts can expect suspense, cultural depth, and edge-of-the-seat drama from start to finish.
Sofia Babu Chacko is a journalist with over five years of experience reporting on Indian politics, crime, human rights, gender issues, and stories about marginalized communities. She believes journalism plays a crucial role in amplifying unheard voices and bringing attention to issues that truly matter. Sofia has contributed articles to The New Indian Express, Youth Ki Awaaz, and Maktoob Media. She is also a recipient of the 2025 Laadli Media Awards for gender sensitivity. Beyond the newsroom, she is a music enthusiast who enjoys singing. Connect with Sofia on X: https://x.com/SBCism
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