By the NewsPatron Entertainment Desk
#Devkhel #MarathiWebSeries #Zee5 #KonkanFolklore #Review #AnkushChaudhari
The Konkan region of Maharashtra is famous for two things: its breathtaking natural beauty and its spine-chilling folklore. ZEE5’s latest offering, “Devkhel” (released Jan 30, 2026), attempts to blend these elements into a psychological crime thriller. But does it succeed in haunting your dreams, or does it just test your patience?
Starring the powerhouse Ankush Chaudhari as the unruly Inspector Vishwas Saranjame, the series dives deep into the legend of Shankasur and the hidden caste politics of rural India. But as users and critics point out, a great concept doesn’t always make a great show.
The Plot: 15 Years of “Ritual” Murders ?
In the fictional village of Devtaali (inspired by Devkhed), a grim tradition unfolds. Every year, on the night of Shimga (Holi), a “sinful” person is murdered. The villagers believe it is the wrath of Shankasur, a local deity.
Enter Inspector Vishwas, a rational cop who clashes with the villagers’ blind faith. His investigation peels back layers of superstition to reveal a much darker human reality: Casteism.
The Mythology: Who is Shankasur? ?
The series presents a fascinating (and controversial) take on the legend. While traditional texts say Shankasur was a demon killed by Lord Krishna (or Vishnu) for stealing the Vedas, Devkhel flips the narrative.
It suggests Shankasur stole the Vedas not out of malice, but to give knowledge to the marginalized lower castes who were denied access to it. This bold interpretation frames Shankasur as a symbol of resistance—a “God of the Oppressed”—which is why he is still worshipped in parts of Konkan.
The Critique: A “Daily Soap” in Disguise? ?
Despite the strong premise, the execution has left many viewers disappointed. Directed by Chandrakant Gaikwad (known for TV serials), the series often slips into melodramatic tropes.
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- The “Loophole” Investigation: In one scene, police officers are watching a crucial vlog for clues. Instead of paying attention, they casually chat and look away exactly when the vital evidence appears on screen. It’s a lazy writing trope that frustrates mystery lovers.
- Pacing Issues: A 15-year murder history requires tension. Instead, we get shots of the protagonist smoking or sitting idle, killing the momentum.
The Controversy: Faith vs. Fiction ??
The show hasn’t just faced critical backlash; it’s facing legal trouble too. A complaint has reportedly been filed at the Guhagar Police Station.
Local groups and faith-based accounts (like @SanatanPrabhat) allege that the series mocks the revered Shankasur Devta by portraying him as cruel and superstitious. In real Konkan folklore, Shankasur is a benevolent figure who blesses homes during Shimga. The series’ depiction of him as a curse has sparked a “Faith vs. Creative Liberty” debate.
Final Verdict: 2.5/5 ?
Watch it for: The lush cinematography of Konkan, the authentic costume design of Shankasur (that beard made of wild cow tail is a masterpiece), and Ankush Chaudhari’s screen presence.
Skip it if: You expect a tight, HBO-style investigation. Devkhel had the potential to be a masterpiece like Kantara or Tumbbad, but it gets lost in its own soap-opera execution.
?? Let’s Connect: I’m Kumar, Editor at Newspatron.
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