- By Tanya Garg
- Thu, 11 Sep 2025 09:31 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Real-Life Inspector Zende Story: Inspector Zende (2025), Netflix's most recent release, has drawn interest from viewers both domestically and internationally. The film, which stars Jim Sarbh as Carl Bhojraj (the fictional Charles Sobhraj) and Manoj Bajpayee as Inspector Madhukar Zende, dramatizes the unrelenting hunt for one of the most infamous criminals of the 20th century. Behind this movie-like excitement, however, is a very real and inspirational person - The first Inspector Madhukar Zende, who was instrumental in the historic capture of notorious serial killer Charles Sobhraj once and twice.
Madhukar Zende, the 88 year old legend is still regarded as a legend in Indian police history despite living in quiet retirement. He caught one of the most infamous fugitives in the world, not once but twice long before CCTV cameras and computerized surveillance. He still embodies a unique combination of bravery, perseverance, and patriotism.
You can tell it was more than simply police glory when Dilip Kumar reserved a large hotel room and Lata Mangeshkar personally called to meet him. Madhukar Zende became a household name after his story appeared in newspapers in several languages and on Doordarshan. This is how Bollywood itself acknowledged the legend.
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Lata Ji And Asha Bhosle Asked For Zende's Autograph
A hoarding bearing the words 'Atke Paar Zende' was soon unveiled by Amul in his honour. The memorial attracted Lata Mangeshkar's attention because it was situated just across from her home. With the whole Mangeshkar family in attendance, the singing legend insisted on meeting the inspector and later went to his felicitation.
Madhukar Zende recalled, "At the event, both Lata ji and Asha Bhosle asked for my autograph."
How Dilip Kumar Honoured Zende?
Zende revealed that late legendary actor Dilip Kumar booked a room to discuss his tales of bravery. "He didn’t want to summon me to his house or visit the police station due to the crowd. Instead, he booked a hotel room and requested me to meet him there. We spoke for over an hour. After that, we became close friends, he often invited me to his preview shows," he shared.
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Where Is Notorious Charles Sobhraj Now?
Charles Sobhraj, who was freed from India in 1997, relocated to Paris until being detained in Nepal in 2003 for the 1975 murder of American traveler Connie Jo Bronzich. He received a life sentence in prison. He wed attorney Nihita Biswas while incarcerated in Nepal. Because to his elderly age and health problems, Sobhraj was discharged in 2022 at the age of 78. He now resides freely in France at the age of 81.