ZEE5 Global, the world’s largest streaming platform for South Asian content, is all set to bring Kannada blockbuster, Agnyathavasi to your screens with its World Digital Premiere, following its sensational run at the box office. This critically acclaimed mystery-thriller has already become a hit, with audiences raving about its thrilling storyline, haunting atmosphere, and standout performances. Directed by Janardhan Chikkanna, written by Krishna Raj, and produced by Hemanth M Rao, Prachura P P, and Jayalakshmi, the film stars the legendary Rangayana Raghu in a career-defining role. With its haunting tone, slow-burning suspense, and a story that gradually uncovers long-buried secrets while confronting painful truths of the past, Agnyathavasi premiers exclusively on ZEE5 Global starting May 28.
Set in the mist-laden village of Nalkeri in the Malenadu region of Karnataka, Agnyathavasi follows the life of a reclusive police inspector (Rangayana Raghu), who has spent years tending to his farm as his station lay dormant—until the sudden, suspicious death of a respected village scholar, Srinivas Iyer, shatters the silence. As whispers of foul play begin to surface, the inspector is forced to reopen a past long buried, drawing unsettling connections to a decades-old murder from the 1970s. Aided by a curious young techie who introduces the village to its first computer, and a woman still waiting on an unresolved love, the investigation slowly peels back the layers of a community haunted by secrets, superstitions, and something darker known only as Pashambara. Is this just a murder mystery—or has the village awakened something it can no longer contain? Watch Agnyathavasi to know more!
A ZEE5 spokesperson said, “The Kannada blockbuster Agnyathavasi has already made a remarkable mark at the theatres, and we are confident it will continue to entertain audiences on our platform. With an amazing storyline, haunting atmosphere, and masterful performances, this film is an outstanding addition to our diverse catalog. We are incredibly proud to collaborate with the visionary director Janardhan Chikkanna and the phenomenal Rangayana Raghu, whose performance has brought both authenticity and intensity in the film. At ZEE5 Global, we are committed to bringing high-quality, unique stories from every corner of the country for our diaspora audiences, and Agnyathavasi is a perfect embodiment of the kind of bold, distinctive entertainment we strive to deliver. We are grateful to be part of this journey and eagerly look forward to continuing to offer such extraordinary content to our global audience in the future.”
“When we set out to make Agnyathavasi, I wanted it to be more than just a crime thriller—I envisioned it as a memory, slow, quiet, and eerie, lingering long after the credits roll,” says director Janardhan Chikkanna. “Rangayana Raghu’s performance is truly remarkable; his presence alone carries the weight of the story, and I can’t imagine anyone else bringing that stillness and intensity to the role. After a fantastic theatrical run, it feels surreal to see the film reaching new heights with its digital premiere on ZEE5 Global. I’m grateful for this collaboration and excited for a global audience to uncover the secrets of this story. Can’t wait to see the love it gets worldwide—it’s going to be special!”
“Agnyathavasi has been one of the most special journeys of my career,” says Rangayana Raghu. “Playing a police inspector who’s more comfortable with cows than crime, in a station that hasn’t seen action in decades, was both refreshing and deeply emotional. This film is a completely layered, nostalgic dive into a village where every silence has a story, and every whisper feels like a clue. The kind of love fans have shown during the theatrical release has been overwhelming—I’ve had people message me saying the film gave them chills and made them cry, all in the same scene! Now, I’m excited for the digital audience to experience this on ZEE5 Gobal. Sit back, slow down, and let the mystery of Nalkeri pull you in.”
Mark your calendars for the haunting mystery of Agnyathavasi, exclusively streaming on ZEE5 Global starting May 28, 2025.
