Netflix has recently unveiled its latest web series, “Scoop,” a compelling and thrilling drama that takes its inspiration from the gripping world of real-life crime and journalism. The show draws heavily from the murder of senior journalist J Dey and the dramatic arrest of journalist Jigna Vora, providing a riveting narrative that captivates viewers from start to finish. Based on Jigna Vora’s book, “Behind the Bars in Byculla: My Days in Prison,” the series is skillfully brought to life by the production duo of Hansal Mehta and Mrinmoyee Lagoo Vaikul.
At the heart of “Scoop” lies the character of Jagriti Pathak, a fearless crime journalist navigating the treacherous realm of crime reporting, a field often considered less safe for women. The series delves into her extraordinary journey, closely mirroring real-life events and drawing inspiration from actual individuals, albeit with altered names. Let’s take a closer look at the ensemble cast and their real-life counterparts depicted on the screen.
1. Jagruti Pathak (Jigna Vora): The character of Jagriti Pathak is based on journalist Jigna Vora, who faced charges and subsequent arrest for conspiring to murder senior crime journalist Jyotirmoy Dey in June 2011. At the time, Jigna Vora was employed at “The Asian Age” but saw her journalism career abruptly halted due to the case. She was accused of providing crucial details about J Dey to the notorious mafia figure Chhota Rajan. Jigna spent approximately nine months behind bars until her acquittal in 2018, due to a lack of evidence. Currently, Jigna Vora is engaged in tarot card reading and writing, having penned a book based on her experiences during her time in prison.
2. Jaydeb Sen (J Dey): Within the gripping narrative of “Scoop,” Jagriti Pathak finds herself entangled in the murder of senior journalist Jaydeb Sen, affectionately known as J Dey. The real-life J Dey (Jyotimoy Dev) tragically lost his life in 2011 near Hiranandani Gardens in Powai, Mumbai. Chhota Rajan claimed responsibility for this heinous act, allegedly driven by articles written against him. In May 2018, a special CBI court convicted Chhota Rajan and seven others, with the former receiving a life sentence. Prosenjit Chatterjee delivers a remarkable performance, skillfully portraying the character of the senior journalist Jaydeb Sen in “Scoop.”
3. Imran Siddiqui (Hussain Zaidi): “Scoop” introduces viewers to Imran Siddiqui, Jagriti’s boss and the resident editor-in-chief of the newspaper she works for. This character is inspired by investigative journalist S. Hussain Zaidi, who held the position of resident editor-in-chief at “The Asian Age” during the events depicted in the series. S. Hussain Zaidi has authored numerous books exploring the intricate world of the Mumbai Mafia, including titles such as “Dongri to Dubai,” “Mafia Queens of Mumbai,” “Black Friday,” “My Name is Abu Salem,” and “Mumbai Avengers.” The talented Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub delivers a commendable performance, bringing Imran Siddiqui to life on the screen. Several films have been adapted from S. Hussain Zaidi’s books.
4. JCP Shroff (Himanshu Roy): “Scoop” introduces viewers to the captivating encounters between Jag ruti and JCP Shroff, a pivotal character whose actions sway the narrative. Portrayed brilliantly by Harman Baweja, this character draws inspiration from the renowned IPS officer Himanshu Roy. In 2011, during the investigation of the Jigna Vora case, Himanshu Roy served as the Joint Commissioner of the Mumbai Police, gaining prominence as an encounter specialist. However, his tale took a somber turn in 2018 when he tragically took his own life following a battle with depression and cancer.
5. Leena Pradhan (Meenal Baghel): In “Scoop,” Leena Pradhan is depicted as the editor-in-chief of City Mirror, competing for mileage against Eastern Age. This character is based on Meenal Baghel, a senior editor at “Mumbai Mirror.” Baghel assumed the role of editor of Mumbai Mirror in 2005 during the newspaper’s inaugural phase. With prior experience as the deputy editor at Mid Day in Mumbai, Baghel skillfully oversaw the newsroom and played a pivotal role in revamping the design and overall product. She also served as an editor for the Sunday paper at the Indian Express in Delhi. Baghel, currently the Executive Editor at Hindustan Times, has ventured into podcasting and authored a book titled “Death in Mumbai,” which delves into the infamous Maria Susairaj case. Tannishtha Chatterjee portrays the character of Leena Pradhan with excellence.
6. AGDP Ramesh Malik (Rakesh Maria): The character of AGDP Ramesh Malik draws parallels with the real-life famous cop and Commissioner of Police, Rakesh Maria. Rakesh Maria, a former IPS officer, solved several high-profile cases during his career. He played a key role in investigating the 1993 Mumbai Bomb Blasts, arresting Sanjay Dutt for illegal firearms possession, solving the 2003 Gateway of India and Zaveri Bazaar blasts, leading the investigation into the 2008 Mumbai attacks, and solving the murder of Matka King Suresh Bhagat. Rakesh Maria’s involvement in the Jigna Vora case was significant, as he led the investigation as the Joint Commissioner of the Mumbai Police. Darshan Dave brilliantly portrays Ramesh Malik’s character, showcasing his dedication and skill in the series.
7. Rambha Maa (Jaya Chheda): The feared character Rambha Maa draws inspiration from the notorious hardcore criminal Jaya Chheda, also known as Jaya Maa within prison walls. Jaya Chheda was the wife of Suresh Bhagat, the influential matka king of Mumbai, who met a tragic end in a fatal accident in 2008. After her husband’s demise, Jaya took over the Matka business, earning the moniker “Matka Queen.” However, her life took a dark turn when she was convicted of Suresh’s murder in 2013 and subsequently sentenced to life imprisonment. In 2018, Jaya Chheda was granted bail on medical grounds by the Bombay High Court, offering a glimpse into the complexities of her life behind bars. Tejaswini Kolhapure brings the character of Rambha Maa to life, capturing the commanding presence and influence she wields within the prison walls.
8. Sharda Maa (Sadhvi Pragya Thakur): The character of Sharda Maa draws inspiration from Sadhvi Pragya Thakur, who was incarcerated in Byculla jail at the time for her alleged involvement in the Malegaon bomb blast. Jigna Vora, the journalist central to the series, had numerous encounters with Sadhvi Pragya during their time in jail. Jigna Vora’s book delves extensively into the intricacies of Sadhvi Pragya’s life. In “Scoop,” the character of Sharda Maa exhibits shades of manipulation and self-interest, exploring the enigmatic world of spiritual figures entangled in the realm of crime and punishment. Shikha Talsania delivers a compelling portrayal of Sharda Maa, capturing the complex layers of the character.
The gripping web series “Scoop” takes inspiration from the real-life murder of senior journalist J Dey and the dramatic arrest of journalist Jigna Vora. It is based on Jigna Vora’s book “Behind the Bars in Byculla: My Days in Prison” and brought to life on the screen by the talented production duo of Hansal Mehta and Mrinmoyee Lagoo Vaikul.
Centered around the character of Jagriti Pathak, played by an exceptional cast led by Jagruti Pathak, the series delves into the tumultuous realm of crime reporting, shedding light on the challenges faced by women in the field. “Scoop” presents a fictionalized account of real-life events, with characters drawing inspiration from actual individuals, albeit with changed names.
The ensemble cast of “Scoop” brilliantly portrays their characters, capturing the essence of their real-life counterparts. From Jagruti Pathak’s portrayal of Jigna Vora, who faced the charge of conspiring to murder senior crime journalist Jyotirmoy Dey, to Prosenjit Chatterjee’s depiction of the tragic J Dey, each performance adds depth and authenticity to the series.
Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub brings Imran Siddiqui, inspired by investigative journalist S. Hussain Zaidi, to life with his commendable performance. Harman Baweja’s portrayal of JCP Shroff, based on the renowned IPS officer Himanshu Roy, leaves a lasting impact.
The talented Tannishtha Chatterjee embodies Leena Pradhan, based on Meenal Baghel, a senior editor in the newspaper industry, while Darshan Dave portrays AGDP Ramesh Malik, drawing parallels with the prominent cop and former Commissioner of Police, Rakesh Maria.
Tejaswini Kolhapure’s portrayal of Rambha Maa, inspired by the notorious criminal Jaya Chheda, adds a layer of intrigue and intensity to the series. Lastly, Shikha Talsania captivates the audience with her portrayal of Sharda Maa, drawing inspiration from Sadhvi Pragya Thakur’s complex life.
“Scoop” is a captivating web series that intertwines real-life events and fictionalized storytelling, shedding light on the world of crime journalism and the challenges faced by those who delve into its depths. With its talented ensemble cast and gripping narrative, the series promises to keep viewers hooked from start to finish, leaving them pondering the blurred lines between truth and fiction.
