Kannada original series ‘Rakshasa’ to premiere on February 20

Kannada original web series Rakshasa, a haunting crime thriller steeped in psychological tension and suspense, is set to premiere on ZEE5 Kannada from February 20. The series promises a gripping narrative where fear flows as silently as the river that guards its darkest secrets.Set against a deeply atmospheric backdrop, Rakshasa explores the disturbing intersection of faith and violence, blurring the line between belief and brutality. The story unfolds through a tense investigative lens, delving into the psychological depths of crime and the emotional conflicts faced by those seeking the truth. Written by Suhan Prasad and Apoorva, and directed by Suhan Prasad, the series is produced by Tharunsudheer Productions. The show features an ensemble cast led by Vijay Raghavendra, alongside Mayuri, Avinash, Malavika, Appanna, and Abhijith, who bring raw emotional intensity to the crime-driven narrative.Speaking about his OTT debut, lead actor Vijay Raghavendra said the series offered him an emotionally challenging role beyond conventional crime drama. “Rakshasa marks my first step into the OTT space, and I couldn’t have asked for a more honest or challenging story to begin this journey. What drew me in was not just the crime or suspense, but the emotional weight of the character — a man torn between duty, belief, and personal responsibility. OTT platforms allow such narratives to breathe and stay with audiences longer. I believe this series will leave a lasting impact even after the final episode,” he said.Producer Tharun Kishore Sudhir, who is making his OTT debut with Rakshasa, shared that the project stood out for its rooted storytelling and investigative core. “As a producer, I was keen to back a story that is intense and emotionally honest. What excited us further was that the story is set in North Karnataka, a region with a distinct cultural and emotional landscape. Stepping into the OTT space with this project has been an exciting learning experience, and this platform felt like the right home for a story that is deeply rooted yet universally engaging,” he said.With its layered storytelling, haunting atmosphere, and emotionally charged performances, Rakshasa aims to uncover the truth beneath myths and fear. The series will stream exclusively on ZEE5 Kannada from February 20.