If you're a fan of raw, unflinching crime dramas like Gangs of Wasseypur or Sacred Games, Rangbaaz (2018) deserves a spot on your watchlist. Created by Navdeep Singh and produced by Jar Pictures, this ZEE5 original digs deep into the violent heartland of Uttar Pradesh, telling a story inspired by the shocking real-life rise and fall of a notorious gangster-politician.

The Story: The series follows Shiv Prakash Shukla (played with terrifying intensity by Saif Ali Khan’s younger brother, Vineet Kumar Singh), a powerful and merciless don from Gorakhpur and Azamgarh. We witness his transformation from an angry, overlooked young man to the region's most feared criminal, known for his brazen shootouts, kidnapping rackets, and eventual foray into politics. His nemesis? A righteous cop, played by Jimmy Sheirgill, who makes it his life's mission to bring Shukla down.

Why You Should Watch:

Where to Watch it for Free?

Rangbaaz is a ZEE5 Original series. While the platform requires a subscription, many viewers look for free options:

The Verdict: Rangbaaz is a tight, explosive, and well-acted crime saga that holds a mirror to the country's dark nexus of crime and politics. If you can access it legally via a free trial, it's an absolute must-watch for genre fans.

ZEE5’s YouTube channel hosts the official trailer and sometimes the first episode as a preview. This is the only legal "free" content available. You cannot find the complete web series for free on YouTube legally.

Rangbaaz (2018) hits like a grind of diesel — slow-burning, oily, and finally explosive. Loosely based on real-life crime and politics in Uttar Pradesh, this first season zeroes in on the rise of a young gangster, tracing how ambition, circumstance, and ruthlessness fuse to make a feared name. It’s the kind of story that pulses with regional grit and the claustrophobic intimacy of small-town power plays.

What makes Rangbaaz riveting

Standout elements

Useful details for viewers

Why it matters Rangbaaz isn’t just a gangster chronicle — it’s a local epic about institutional rot and personal ambition. By focusing on the micro-politics of a district and the porous boundaries between elected power and criminal force, it asks larger questions about how societies produce their villains. It’s compelling because it grounds those questions in people you can almost understand, if you don’t forgive them.

If you want a punchy, character-driven crime saga that feels lived-in rather than stylized, Rangbaaz (2018) delivers.

Released in 2018, Rangbaaz is a gritty crime thriller set in the heart of Uttar Pradesh during the 1990s. The series is a ZEE5 Original and follows the rapid rise and eventual fall of a young, deadly gangster. Plot Overview

The story is inspired by the real-life events of Shri Prakash Shukla (renamed Shiv Prakash Shukla in the show), who was once India's second most-wanted criminal. Starting as a regular college student at DDU, a single violent incident alters his life path, leading him into the dangerous intersection of organized crime and regional politics.

As Shukla becomes a feared name across the Hindi heartland, the state government forms a Special Task Force (STF) led by Siddharth Pandey to track him down, leading to a high-stakes cat-and-mouse game. Cast and Characters

The series features a powerful ensemble cast known for delivering intense performances: Saqib Saleem as Shiv Prakash Shukla Ranvir Shorey as Siddharth Pandey (STF Officer) Tigmanshu Dhulia as Ram Shankar Tiwari Ravi Kishan as Chandra Bhan Singh Aahana Kumra as Babita Sharma Where to Watch for Free

While Rangbaaz is primarily a premium series on ZEE5, there are a few ways to watch it legally:

Airtel Xstream Play: Eligible users with specific Airtel Prepaid, Postpaid, or Broadband plans can often access ZEE5 content for no extra cost.

Vi Movies & TV: Some reports suggest the series is available with ads on the Vi Movies and TV platform.

Promotional Episodes: Occasionally, ZEE5 makes the first episode or select scenes available for free on YouTube to give viewers a taste of the show. Series Highlights

Rangbaaz (TV series) - Wikipedia Table_title: Rangbaaz (TV series) Table_content: header: | Rangbaaz | | row: | Rangbaaz: Poster Image | : | row: | Rangbaaz: Genre... Rangbaaz (TV Series 2018–2022) - Plot - IMDb

Summaries * Traces the rise and fall of 'Saheb' Haroon Shah Ali Baig, a gangster-turned-politician, who was much loved and feared ... Saqib Saleem

Saqib Saleem's best projects on OTT that you should definitely not miss streaming Saqib Saleem's first and most recent web series ... Saqib Saleem Vineet Kumar Singh

Vineet Kumar Singh's Rangeen has started streaming some days into its announcement. The web series gets its first reactions, and t... Vineet Kumar Singh Tigmanshu Dhulia

'Garmi' on OTT: Check release date, where to stream and more details about Tigmanshu Dhulia's web series Tigmanshu Dhulia establis... Tigmanshu Dhulia Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub

Ayyub ( Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub ) 's latest project has fared much better. In the SonyLIV web series A Simple Murder, Ayyub ( Moham... Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub Released in December 2018,

is a ZEE5 Original Hindi-language crime thriller web series. Set in the 1990s in Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh, the first season dramatizes the real-life story of Shri Prakash Shukla (renamed Shiv Prakash Shukla in the show), who became one of India’s most wanted criminals by the age of 25. Series Overview & Plot

The narrative follows the transformation of Shiv Prakash Shukla from a regular college student into a feared contract killer and gangster. After committing his first murder over a personal insult, Shiv finds protection under powerful politicians and quickly ascends through the criminal underworld of Uttar Pradesh. The story highlights the nexus between crime and politics, eventually leading to a high-stakes manhunt by a newly formed Special Task Force (STF) led by Siddharth Pandey, who famously used mobile phone tracking—a rare technology at the time—to locate him. Cast & Crew

The show features a strong ensemble cast known for grounded performances: Saqib Saleem as Shiv Prakash Shukla (The Protagonist) Ranvir Shorey as Siddharth Pandey (The STF Cop)

Tigmanshu Dhulia as Ram Shankar Tiwari (Inspired by Hari Shankar Tiwari)

Ravi Kishan as Chandrabhan Singh (Inspired by Suraj Bhan Singh) Aahana Kumra as Babita Sharma

The series was directed by Bhav Dhulia and written by Siddharth Mishra. Where to Watch Legally

While the series was released as a premium original, some platforms offer limited or ad-supported access:

ZEE5: The official platform where all seasons are hosted. A subscription is typically required for full HD access.

Airtel Xstream Play: Available for Airtel users with specific mobile or broadband plans.

Vi Movies & TV: Has previously offered the show with ads for Vodafone-Idea subscribers.

Tata Play Binge: Aggregates ZEE5 content for its subscribers. Reception & Critical Review

The series received generally positive reviews, particularly for Saqib Saleem’s career-defining performance.

Rating: It holds a strong rating of approximately 8/10 on platforms like IMDb.

Strengths: Critics praised its authentic 1990s atmosphere, gritty realism, and the decision to keep "abuses at a surprisingly low level" compared to other gangster dramas like Mirzapur.

Weaknesses: Some reviewers felt the plot was predictable and relied too heavily on era-specific film songs to set the mood. The Rangbaaz Franchise

Due to its success, the show was turned into an anthology franchise with subsequent seasons focusing on different real-life figures: Season 1 (2018): Shiv Prakash Shukla (UP).

Season 2 (Rangbaaz Phirse, 2019): Inspired by Rajasthan gangster Anandpal Singh, starring Jimmy Shergill.

Season 3 (Rangbaaz: Darr Ki Rajneeti, 2022): Based on Bihar gangster-turned-politician Mohammad Shahabuddin, starring Vineet Kumar Singh. Rangbaaz (TV series) - Wikipedia

Synopsis. ... Rangbaaz is based on the true story of Shri Prakash Shukla (Shiv Prakash Shukla in the series), who was a notorious ... Rangbaaz (TV series) - Wikipedia

Rangbaaz. The New Indian Express rated with 3/5 stars and critically reviewed the series by saying it had nothing out of the ordin... Rangbaaz (TV series) - Wikipedia

Table_title: Rangbaaz (TV series) Table_content: header: | Rangbaaz | | row: | Rangbaaz: Poster Image | : | row: | Rangbaaz: Genre... Rangbaaz (TV Series 2018–2022) - Plot - IMDb

Summaries * Traces the rise and fall of 'Saheb' Haroon Shah Ali Baig, a gangster-turned-politician, who was much loved and feared ... Rangbaaz (TV series) - Wikipedia

Synopsis. Rangbaaz is based on the true story of Shri Prakash Shukla (Shiv Prakash Shukla in the series), who was a notorious gang... Rangbaaz (TV Series 2018–2022) - Plot - IMDb

Traces the rise and fall of 'Saheb' Haroon Shah Ali Baig, a gangster-turned-politician, who was much loved and feared in Bihar. Sh... Saqib Saleem

Saqib Saleem's best projects on OTT that you should definitely not miss streaming Saqib Saleem's first and most recent web series ... Saqib Saleem Vineet Kumar Singh

Vineet Kumar Singh's Rangeen has started streaming some days into its announcement. The web series gets its first reactions, and t... Vineet Kumar Singh Tigmanshu Dhulia

'Garmi' on OTT: Check release date, where to stream and more details about Tigmanshu Dhulia's web series Tigmanshu Dhulia establis... Tigmanshu Dhulia Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub

Ayyub ( Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub ) 's latest project has fared much better. In the SonyLIV web series A Simple Murder, Ayyub ( Moham... Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub Spruha Joshi

Actress Spruha Joshi recently spotted while promoting her upcoming Hindi web series Rangbaaz Phir Se. https://www.facebook.com/spr... Spruha Joshi Jimmy Shergill

Recently, Jimmy Shergill has started working in web series and has grabbed huge eyeballs in online space. Maybe, we won't see him ... Jimmy Shergill Aahana Kumra

Interestingly, Aahana ( Aahana Kumra ) 's performance in a web series got her the role of the politician. “I had done this web ser... Aahana Kumra Sharad Kelkar

Not only TV shows and films, but Sharad Kelkar also appeared in web series, making him a star. Sharad Kelkar made his debut on an ... Sharad Kelkar Mahima Makwana

The girl who ruled the hearts of fans with her ( Mahima Makwana ) desi look 10 years ago, today her ( Mahima Makwana ) bold look i... Mahima Makwana Ranvir Shorey

Playing a hyper character in a new web show was actually a therapeutic experience for him ( Ranvir Shorey ) , conceded actor Ranvi... Ranvir Shorey

When the makers of the series approached Gul for the role of the voice artist, she ( Gul Panag ) immediately agreed to work on the... Ravi Kishan

Prior to this, Kishan ( Ravi Kishan ) has been a part of web shows such as Rangbaaz, Hasmukh, Matsya Kaand, The Whistleblower and ... Ravi Kishan Shiv Prakash Shukla

Each season is loosely based on the life transformation of ordinary individuals into notorious gangsters. Season 1 of this action ... Shiv Prakash Shukla Rangbaaz (TV Series 2018–2022) - IMDb

* simpleshivam. 7. Slow Paced but Catches on You. Recently finished the series as I come from UP and the story is about one of the... 'Rangbaaz' review: Saqib Saleem makes an impressive web ...

'Rangbaaz' review: Saqib Saleem makes an impressive web debut * The crux of the newly-discovered creative freedom on the web-forma... The New Indian Express Watch Rangbaaz Web Series All Episodes Online in HD On ...

2 Seasons18 Episodes2018ActionThrillerA. Audio Languages: Hindi,Bengali,Kannada,Malayalam,Marathi,Tamil,Telugu. Subtitles: English... Watch Rangbaaz Web Series All Episodes Online in HD On ...

Watch Rangbaaz Web Series All Episodes Online in HD On ZEE5. Live TV. Rangbaaz (TV Series 2018-2022) - Cast & Crew - TMDB

Rangbaaz (2018) * Jimmy Shergill. Amarpal Singh (18 Episodes) * Sushant Singh. Jairam Godara (18 Episodes) * Spruha Joshi. Rukmini... The Movie Database Watch Rangbaaz Web Series All Episodes Online in ... - ZEE5

Watch Rangbaaz Web Series All Episodes Online in HD On ZEE5. Subscribe. Watch Rangbaaz on Zee5 with Tata Play Binge Watch Rangbaaz on Zee5 with Tata Play Binge. Tata Play Binge RANGBAAZ (Web Series) Review by Bobby Sing at ...

In straight words, it's a pity that a talented team of such caliber chose an entirely repetitive subject to make a web-series wast... Bobby Talks Cinema Rangbaaz - Season 1 (2018) - Moviefone

Season 1 Plot. Shiv Prakash Shukla, a regular college going kid, has his destiny changed drastically over the period of one fatefu...

Rangbaaz Review: Saqib Saleem Was An Excellent Fit For ... - ZEE5

The show slowly moves onto to what follows after Shiv's first murder. There is another important character on the show called Sidd... Rangbaaz (2018-2022) - TV Show - Moviefone

Rangbaaz (2018-2022) ... Shiv Prakash Shukla a 25 year age boy from Gorakhpur becomes the deadliest gangster of Uttar Pradesh in 1... Rangbaaz Season 1 - watch full episodes streaming online

Streaming, rent, or buy Rangbaaz – Season 1: Currently you are able to watch "Rangbaaz - Season 1" streaming on VI movies and tv o...

Rangbaaz TV Show: Watch Latest Episodes Online | Airtel Xstream Play

Watch Rangbaaz Online on Airtel Xstream Play. Stream the TV show Rangbaaz in brilliant quality on Airtel Xstream Play. Watch on yo... Airtel Xstream

You're looking for the complete Rangbaaz 2018 Hindi web series for free. Here's what I found:

Rangbaaz is a popular Indian web series that premiered in 2018 on ALTBalaji, a leading Indian streaming platform. The show is a crime drama that revolves around the story of a young man named Daya, played by Vijay Varma, who becomes a small-time crook and eventually gets into the world of crime.

If you're looking to stream Rangbaaz 2018 for free, here are a few options:

Please note that availability may vary depending on your location, and some platforms might not be available in your region.

If you're interested in purchasing or subscribing to a plan, here are some options:

Make sure to check the pricing and plans before making a decision.

Would you like more information on Rangbaaz or help with streaming?

The 2018 web series Rangbaaz stands as one of the most defining moments in the Indian OTT landscape. Released on ZEE5, it carved a niche for itself by moving away from polished urban dramas and diving deep into the rugged, lawless heartlands of 1990s Gorakhpur.

If you are looking for the Rangbaaz 2018 Hindi complete web series, The Plot: A Rise to Infamy

Set against the backdrop of the rustic and volatile landscape of Uttar Pradesh, Rangbaaz follows the life of Shiv Sri Prakash Shukla, played brilliantly by Saqib Saleem. The story traces the transformation of a simple, promising youth into one of India’s most feared and wanted gangsters.

The narrative isn't just about crime; it’s about the socio-political environment of the 90s, where the lines between student politics, local governance, and organized crime were dangerously blurred. It explores how a single incident of honor and rage can push an ordinary man into a world of no return. Why Rangbaaz (Season 1) is a Must-Watch

Stellar Performances: Saqib Saleem shed his "chocolate boy" image to deliver a gritty, menacing performance. He is supported by a powerhouse cast including Tigmanshu Dhulia, Ranvir Shorey, and Ravi Kishan, who add layers of authenticity to the North Indian setting.

Authentic Direction: Directed by Bhav Dhulia, the series captures the aesthetics of the 90s perfectly—from the dial-up phones and old-school jeeps to the specific dialect of the region.

Grit and Realism: Unlike many "gangster" stories that glamorize violence, Rangbaaz leans into the consequences of crime, showing the heavy price paid by the protagonist and everyone around him. Episodes Breakdown

The first season consists of 9 episodes, each building the tension toward a high-stakes finale.

The Origin: How a small-town boy enters the world of local goons.

The Expansion: The tactical rise of Shukla and his interactions with powerful politicians.

The Fall: The relentless pursuit by the Special Task Force (STF) led by Siddharth Pandey (Ranvir Shorey). Where to Watch "Rangbaaz 2018 Hindi Complete Web Series"

While many users search for "Rangbaaz 2018 Hindi complete web series free," it is important to note that the series is a ZEE5 Original.

Official Platform: You can stream all episodes in high definition on the ZEE5 app or website.

Free Options: ZEE5 occasionally offers the first few episodes for free to new users. Additionally, certain telecom providers (like Airtel or Vi) often include ZEE5 subscriptions in their prepaid or postpaid bundles.

Avoid Piracy: Using unofficial "free" streaming sites puts your device at risk of malware and supports illegal distribution. For the best experience (and to support the creators), viewing via the official app is the way to go. Final Verdict

Rangbaaz remains a benchmark for crime thrillers in India. If you enjoy shows like Mirzapur or Sacred Games, this 2018 gem is essential viewing. It’s a fast-paced, emotionally charged journey that offers a stark look at the "Rangbaazi" (bravado) that defined an era.

(2018) is a gripping Hindi-language crime thriller web series that fast became a sensation for its intense storyline set in the heartland of India. Released as a ZEE5 Original

, the first season dives into the murky world of 1990s Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh.

Here is an article covering the details of the series, its story, and how to watch it.

Rangbaaz (2018): The Rise of a Gangster – Where to Watch the Complete Web Series Set against the rustic backdrop of Gorakhpur in the 1990s,

is a gritty web series that explores the life of a young college student who is forced into the world of crime and politics. The 2018 series quickly gained popularity for its thrilling narrative, stellar performances, and raw portrayal of North Indian gang culture. Plot Summary: A True Crime Thriller

season 1 is loosely based on the true story of Shri Prakash Shukla (named Shiv Prakash Shukla in the series), a dreaded gangster who was once one of the most wanted criminals in Uttar Pradesh.

The story follows a bright, ordinary college student whose life turns upside down after one fateful night of violence. Driven by circumstances and needing protection, he enters the world of crime. Under the patronage of politicians and powerful criminals, he grows into a feared gangster, creating a complex web of crime, politics, and romance. Cast and Characters Saqib Saleem as Shiv Prakash Shukla (The Protagonist) Tigmanshu Dhulia as Ram Shankar Tiwari (A political figure) Ranvir Shorey as Siddharth Pandey (STF Officer) Aahana Kumra as Babita Sharma Ravi Kishan as Chandra Bhan Singh How to Watch Rangbaaz (2018) Complete Web Series (2018) is a ZEE5 Original series

, making the official platform the primary place to watch all episodes in HD. Official Platform:

offers all 9 episodes of Season 1 (2018) in Hindi, with regional language dubbing options available. Other Options: The series is also available for viewing through VI Movies and TV Tata Play Binge Free Options: Sometimes, the first few episodes are free on with ads, or accessible for free via VI Movies and TV A Thriving Franchise The success of

(2018) led to two more seasons in the franchise, although each features a different story: Rangbaaz Phirse (2019): Starring Jimmy Sheirgill, based in Rajasthan. Rangbaaz: Darr Ki Rajneeti (2022): Starring Vineet Kumar Singh, based in Bihar.

is an action-thriller that offers a chilling look into the nexus of crime and power, making it a must-watch for fans of web series like Sacred Games

Note: The best way to watch this series is through the official ZEE5 app to ensure high-quality streaming.

A simple Google search will lead you to hundreds of torrent sites (Filmyzilla, Tamilrockers, Moviesflix, Telegram channels) claiming to offer the HD download. Do not fall for these. Here is why:

In a dusty township where loyalties shift like desert winds, a young man named (here called) Shiva grows up watching the world around him bend to those with muscle and money. Society’s neglect, family pressures and a simmering anger at injustice push him toward the quick respect that only power can buy. His early acts of defiance—for defending family honor or settling scores—win him local renown. Small-time muscle work and gang skirmishes slowly evolve into organized crime, and Shiva’s charisma and ruthlessness turn him into the town’s most dreaded figure.

In the final scene, whether the protagonist is behind bars, dead, or standing lonely atop a fractured domain, the town returns to its routines—shops open, children shout—reminding viewers that stories of rise and ruin repeat until systems change.

If you want, I can convert this into a short screenplay outline, a single-episode script, or a character-focused vignette.

(related search suggestions provided)

(2018) is a critically acclaimed Hindi crime thriller web series that premiered on ZEE5. The first season is based on the real-life story of Shri Prakash Shukla, one of the most notorious gangsters in Uttar Pradesh during the 1990s. Series Overview & Plot

The 2018 season follows the journey of Shiv Prakash Shukla (played by Saqib Saleem), a simple college student from Gorakhpur whose life takes a dark turn after a fateful crime.

Rise to Power: Shukla quickly ascends the criminal hierarchy, involving himself in organized crime and working for powerful political figures.

The Pursuit: As he becomes India's second most-wanted criminal, the state government forms a Special Task Force (STF) led by Siddharth Pandey to track him down.

Historical Impact: The series highlights how his criminal activities eventually led to the formation of the STF in Uttar Pradesh. Key Cast & Crew Shiv Prakash Shukla: Saqib Saleem Siddharth Pandey (STF Lead): Ranvir Shorey Ram Shankar Tiwari: Tigmanshu Dhulia Chandra Bhan Singh: Ravi Kishan Babita Sharma: Aahana Kumra Director: Bhav Dhulia Where to Watch Legally

While users often search for "free" versions, the series is a premium ZEE5 Original. Here are the legitimate ways to stream it:

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. ‘Rangbaaz’ is a copyrighted production of ZEE5. We do not endorse or host piracy. We strongly recommend supporting the creators by watching the series via official, paid OTT platforms.

Rangbaaz 2018 Hindi Complete Web Series Free Here