Saqib Saleem, Saba Azad to be seen in thriller 'Crime Beat'
Actors Saqib Saleem, Sai Tamhankar, Rahul Bhat and Saba Azad will be seen sharing screen space in a new thriller series Crime Beat.
Crime Beat follows the "journey of a rookie crime journalist, struggling to find his footing both professionally and personally. His breakthrough comes when he uncovers a lead on a fugitive gangster's return to India. As he delves deeper into the investigation, which has the potential to make him a journalistic sensation, he is pulled into a dangerous web of deceit and hidden agendas. The more he uncovers, the more perilous his situation becomes, forcing him to make choices that challenge his morals, threaten his relationships, and put his life on the line."
Saqib said, "From the moment I took on this role, I knew Crime Beat would be an intense and unforgettable journey which would push and test me as an actor. Portraying a crime journalist caught in the complex web of investigative reporting, power dynamics, and dire threats has been both thrilling and challenging. The story is packed with suspense, high stakes, and moral dilemmas, creating an edge-of-your-seat experience. I'm excited for the audience to dive into this gripping narrative, and I truly hope they connect with the twists and turns that make Crime Beat so compelling".
Accordng to Saba, "The show goes into the world of investigative reporting and each character encounters their fair share of risks within it. My character is driven, passionate, super independent and navigates within a world filled with constant moral dilemma. The story highlights the complexities journalists face while uncovering some of society's darkest secrets and the personal cost they pay for the same. I'm thrilled for the world to see what we have made."
Sudhir Mishra and Sanjeev Kaul have directed the series, which will be released on ZEE5 starting February 21.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Khaleej Times
11-06-2025
- Khaleej Times
Diljit Dosanjh to investigate tricky murder case in 'Detective Sherdil'
Actor and singer Diljit Dosanjh is set to play the role of a genius investigator in the film Detective Sherdil. The makers of the movie released its trailer earlier this week. The film boasts an ensemble cast including Diana Penty, Boman Irani, Ratna Pathak Shah, Chunky Panday, Sumeet Vyas, Banita Sandhu, Kashmira Irani, and others. As per the trailer, global icon Dosanjh has been tasked to solve a murder case involving a billionaire business tycoon and his family. The plot revolves around a flamboyant billionaire business tycoon (played by Boman Irani) who was found murdered in Budapest. The trailer then introduces Diljit Dosanjh as Detective Sherdil, an unorthodox investigator who has a knack for solving murder cases. By his side is Natasha (Diana Penty), a poised and brilliant investigator with a mind equally sharp. As the two dig deeper into the tangled web of family secrets, betrayals, and billion-dollar motives, the case becomes increasingly twisted and unpredictable, as shown in the trailer. As the investigation continues, a gripping game of deceit unfolds where every suspect harbours a secret that changes the narrative of the story. It is directed and edited by Ravi Chhabriya. The OTT platform Zee5 shared the trailer on their Instagram handle. They wrote, "A murder with many suspects. And a sher (lion) with the chaabi (key) to everyone's dil (heart). Are you ready?" View this post on Instagram A post shared by ZEE5 (@zee5) "From day one, I knew we needed a detective who could balance charm, wit, and a bit of swagger--and Diljit brought all of that and more," Chhabriya said in a statement. "Playing Detective Sherdil has been fun for me," Dosanjh said. "The character quirks and this attitude is something that I have tried differently. Hope audiences enjoy this character and the film."
Khaleej Times
20-05-2025
- Khaleej Times
'Logout' star Babil Khan: 'I always wanted to be loved'
In an Instagram post this week, Babil Khan, son of the late Bollywood actor Irrfan Khan, explained that he'd be stepping away from a project by director Sai Rajesh. He said he's taking some time off. The move comes days after a tearful cryptic post on social media about the negativity in India's movie industry, which was deleted soon after. In all the ensuing drama of him refuting claims that he'd been dissing the industry, actors either calling him silly or speaking up in his defence, it's his latest project, Logout, available for streaming on Zee5 Global that has slipped through the cracks. The film, a deep dive into the lengths an influencer might go to for followers, has won plaudits for his acting prowess while sliding off audience radars due to all the real life drama. The cyber security thriller was written by Biswapati Sarkar and directed by Amit Golani. In a conversation with Babil, we heard about why he likes auditions, how he deals with stage fright, and why he read the Logout script a hundred times. Excerpts from the interview In Logout, you play an influencer. Do you identify with the label? I don't resonate with being an influencer, but I resonate with needing external validation. I resonate with the soul of the character. I don't resonate with his job. So, what happens when you don't get the validation? How do you deal with negative feedback? I believe that you can't think your way out of struggle and pain. It's important to surrender. Don't try to be anything, but what you are in that moment. If you're feeling anxiety, feel that anxiety. Rather than attaching your identity to that emotion, observe it from a distance. See the effects of it on you. I think that's what being alive is. Do you take part in a lot of auditions? Yes, I audition a lot because that is a good way to practice. People have this really strange idea that auditions are nerve wracking, but the moment you change your perception towards auditions, you realise they can be a great way to practice acting. That is where I go and understand acting. And every audition makes me a better actor. Have you ever suffered from stage fright? I have stage fright. But the truth is that no matter how scared you are, if you change the way you look at fear, the effect of fear changes. I remember recently, I was walking on for a ramp and right before the I went on stage, my knees were shivering. But I breathed. I just watched the fear. Instead of being overwhelmed by it, I chose my action towards that fear. I surrendered to that. And then the fear didn't affect my outcome. How did you prepare for your role in Logout? I prepped with my best friend and my acting mentor, Rachit Singh, a little bit and then I researched a lot of content. Other than that, I would say that the script is so intricately written and so well designed that I didn't have to do much. Rather than just study the text repeatedly, I just stuck with the script -- I read the script like 100 times. Did you always want to be in the entertainment space? I wanted to be loved. And I convinced myself that the only way that would happen is if I became famous… I wanted to be a star. What are the lessons from your dad that you carry forward? The only reason I know about surrender, about not labelling emotions good or bad, and that is nothing is right or wrong is because of him and the way he lived life. He never taught me anything about acting. He lived with me and he laughed with me, and that's how I learned.
Web Release
22-04-2025
- Web Release
ZEE5 Global drops a riveting trailer of Costao — A tale of grit and justice
ZEE5 Global, the world's largest streaming platform for South Asian content, unveils the trailer of the much-awaited and anticipated film – 'COSTAO'. Set against the gritty backdrop of 1990s Goa, Costao tells the gripping story of a fearless customs officer who dared to defy an empire built on smuggling, corruption, and fear. Nawazuddin Siddiqui delivers a powerhouse performance as Costao Fernandes — a sharp, unconventional enforcer whose bold tactics and unrelenting pursuit for justice puts him at odds with both the criminal underworld and the very system he serves. Directed by debutant Sejal Shah, the movie also stars – Priya Bapat, Kishore Kumar G, Gagan Dev Riar & Hussain Dalal. Premiering on May 1, Costao is a story about courage, sacrifice, and the brutal price of standing against the face of a corrupt empire. Trailer Link: Set in a world steeped in corruption and ruled by crime, as revealed in the trailer, the film follows Costao—a man whose daring methods and unshakable courage make him both a hero and thorn in the side of the system. When a deadly clash with the brother of a notorious smuggler sparks a high-stakes manhunt, Costao is thrust into a relentless battle for survival. Hunted, betrayed, and on his own, he refuses to give in. He fights—not just for justice, but for his family and his own redemption. With heart-pounding action, powerful emotional turns, and a protagonist as unpredictable as he is unforgettable, Costao delivers a wild, gripping ride. As everything begins to unravel, one question remains: with a lot of personal sacrifice, audacious courage but sharp instincts, will Costao be able to stand against the empire that runs the show and at what cost? Don't miss out—stream Costao on ZEE5 Global starting May 1! A ZEE5 Spokesperson said, 'At ZEE5 Global, we remain steadfast in our mission to tell stories that challenge norms and ignite meaningful dialogue. Real-life stories like Costao hold immense significance for us as they reflect courage, resilience, and truths that deserve to be seen and heard. The film is a strong addition to our expanding original film slate, with a story that is not only compelling but also thought-provoking. Our collaboration with the makers reflects a shared vision for delivering powerful narratives that go beyond the expected. As we continue to focus on differentiated storytelling, we are proud to back films like Costao that leave a deep and lasting impression on viewers.' Producer Vinod Bhanushali said, 'We've always loved creating untold stories that are as interesting as they are unique, and Costao is the perfect example of that. With Nawazuddin Siddiqui in the lead, you know you're in for something special. His performance as Costao is pure magic—raw, intense, and layered in a way that will keep you hooked from the very first second. After Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai, we felt Costao deserved a platform like ZEE5 Global for the story to reach the right audience. Our shared vision for authentic storytelling perfectly aligned, allowing us to craft a movie that challenges conventions and surprises at every turn. As a movie Costao demands your attention, and trust me, you won't want to look away. We're beyond excited for you to experience this rollercoaster when it drops on May 1st!' Debutant Director Sejal Shah said, 'Costao is the story of an officer who risked his life to do the right thing and paid the price for it. It's raw, intense, and full of moments that will leave you questioning how far one person can go in the name of duty. Bringing this world to life has been a challenge and a privilege, and I couldn't have asked for a better actor than Nawazuddin Siddiqui to play Costao. He brings an unmatched authenticity and complexity to the character. ZEE5 Global has always backed bold, powerful storytelling, and I'm excited to collaborate with them. I can't wait for audiences to experience Costao—a story that deserves to be told.' Nawazuddin Siddiqui expressed, 'Costao is not just a story about a customs officer fighting against a ruthless smuggling empire—it's about the cost of standing up to an entire system built on corruption and betrayal. There is a dialoug in the film where the character says 'Humare society mein sabko chahiye ki Officer honest ho aur brave ho… lekin Ghar mein Nahi'; it's so true. Costao's courage in the face of unbeatable odds reflects this perfectly. His battle is not only against criminals but against a system that tries to break him at every turn. I can't wait for viewers to experience the explosive twists, raw emotion, and relentless intensity that Costao brings. It's a story that will keep you at the edge, questioning what's right, what's wrong, and what one man is willing to sacrifice for justice. Don't miss it; Costao drops on May 1st!' Produced by Vinod Bhanushali, Kamlesh Bhanushali, Bhavesh Mandalia, Sejal Shah, Shyam Sunder & Faizuddin Siddiqui and written by Bhavesh Mandalia & Meghna Srivastava, Costao is an unmissable story. Stream ZEE5 Global Original, Costao, starting May 1, and witness the thrilling journey of one man's fight against Goa's smuggling empire—no matter the cost!
