In a recent release, Netflix unveils an enthralling web series titled “Scoop,” drawing inspiration from the real-life murder of esteemed journalist J Dey and the dramatic arrest of journalist Jigna Vora. This gripping series is based on Jigna Vora’s book, “Behind the Bars in Byculla: My Days in Prison,” brought to life by the creative duo of Hansal Mehta and Mrinmoyee Lagoo Vaikul.
At the core of the narrative lies Jagriti Pathak, a crime journalist, as she navigates the treacherous world of crime reporting, often perceived as less secure for women. “Scoop” delves into real events, with characters inspired by actual individuals, albeit with altered names. Let us explore the ensemble cast and their real-life counterparts depicted on the screen.
- Jagruti Pathak (Jigna Vora): The character of Jagriti Pathak finds its roots in journalist Jigna Vora. She faced charges and subsequent arrest for allegedly conspiring to murder senior crime journalist Jyotirmoy Dey in June 2011. At that time, Jigna Vora worked for “The Asian Age” but experienced an abrupt end to her journalism career due to the case. She was accused of sharing details about J Dey with the notorious mafia figure Chhota Rajan. After spending nearly nine months behind bars, Jigna Vora was acquitted in 2018 due to a lack of evidence. Currently, Jigna Vora engages in tarot card reading and writing, with a book based on her experiences during incarceration.
- Jaydeb Sen (J Dey): In “Scoop,” Jagriti Pathak becomes entangled in the murder of esteemed journalist Jaydeb Sen, affectionately known as J Dey. The real-life J Dey (Jyotimoy Dev) met a tragic end in 2011 near Hiranandani Gardens in Powai, Mumbai. Chhota Rajan claimed responsibility for this heinous act, reportedly in response to articles written against him. In May 2018, a special CBI court convicted Chhota Rajan and seven others, with Rajan receiving a life sentence. Prosenjit Chatterjee brilliantly portrays the character of senior journalist Jaydeb Sen in “Scoop.”
- Imran Siddiqui (Hussain Zaidi): Within “Scoop,” Imran Siddiqui serves as Jagriti’s boss and the resident editor-in-chief of the newspaper where she is employed. This character draws inspiration from investigative journalist S. Hussain Zaidi, who held the position of resident editor-in-chief at “The Asian Age” during the incident. S. Hussain Zaidi is renowned for authoring numerous books delving into Mumbai’s Mafia World, including titles such as “Dongri to Dubai,” “Mafia Queens of Mumbai,” “Black Friday,” “My Name is Abu Salem,” and “Mumbai Avengers.” The fabulous actor Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub delivers a commendable performance in bringing this character to life on the screen. Several films have been adapted from S. Hussain Zaidi’s books.
- JCP Shroff (Himanshu Roy): Observant viewers of “Scoop” may have noticed the frequent encounters between Jagruti and JCP Shroff, a pivotal character whose actions shape the narrative. Harman Baweja portrays this character brilliantly, drawing 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 Mumbai Police, gaining prominence as an encounter specialist. However, his story took a somber turn in 2018 when he tragically took his own life after battling with depression and cancer.
- Leena Pradhan (Meenal Baghel): In “Scoop,” the character of Leena Pradhan assumes the role of editor-in-chief of City Mirror, rivaling the newspaper Eastern Age for recognition. This character is inspired by Meenal Baghel, a senior editor at “Mumbai Mirror.” Meenal Baghel took on the position of editor of Mumbai Mirror in 2005, coinciding with the newspaper’s inception. Prior to this role, she served as deputy editor at Mid Day in Mumbai, where she skillfully oversaw the newsroom and played a pivotal role in revamping the design and overall product. From 1996 to 2001, Baghel contributed her expertise to the Indian Express, serving as the editor for the Sunday paper based in Delhi. Additionally, she successfully managed Newsline, the Express’s city supplement, in Mumbai. Baghel currently holds the position of Executive Editor at Hindustan Times, and she is also a podcaster and author of the book “Death in Mumbai,” delving into the infamous Maria Susairaj case. Leena Pradhan’s character is brought to life by the talented actress Tannishtha Chatterjee.
- AGDP Ramesh Malik (Rakesh Maria): The character of AGDP Ramesh Malik bears resemblance to the real-life famous cop and Commissioner of Police, Rakesh Maria. As a former IPS officer, Rakesh Maria solved several high-profile cases during his illustrious career. He played a crucial 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 resolving the murder of Matka King Suresh Bhagat. Maria’s exceptional investigative skills and leadership were evident in these cases. In the Jigna Vora case, Rakesh Maria, as the Joint Commissioner of Mumbai Police, led the investigation. Under his supervision, the police gathered evidence and conducted thorough interrogations, ultimately leading to the arrest of Jigna Vora. However, it is important to note that Jigna Vora was acquitted in 2018 due to a lack of evidence. Ramesh Malik’s character is portrayed by the talented actor Darshan Dave.
- Rambha Maa (Jaya Cheddha): The character of Rambha Maa, a formidable presence, draws inspiration from the notorious hardcore criminal Jaya Chheda, also known as Jaya Maa within the prison walls. Jaya Chheda was the wife of Suresh Bhagat, a prominent matka king in Mumbai, who met a tragic end in a fatal accident in 2008. After her husband’s demise, Jaya assumed control of the Matka business and earned the moniker “Matka Queen.” However, her life took a dark turn when she was convicted of Suresh’s murder in 2013, resulting in a life sentence. In 2018, Jaya Chheda was granted bail by the Bombay High Court on medical grounds, offering a glimpse into the complexities of her life behind bars. In “Scoop,” the character Rambha Maa encapsulates Jaya’s compelling story, showcasing her commanding presence and influence within the prison walls. Rambha Maa’s character is portrayed by the talented Tejaswini Kolhapure.
- Sharda Maa (Sadhvi Pragya Thakur): The character of Sharda Maa in “Scoop” is inspired by Sadhvi Pragya Thakur, who was incarcerated in Byculla jail at the time for her alleged involvement in the Malegaon bomb blast. Jigna Vora, the central figure of the series, had numerous encounters with Sadhvi Pragya during their time in jail. Jigna Vora’s book extensively delves into the intricacies of Sadhvi Pragya’s life. The character of Sharda Maa in “Scoop” embodies shades of manipulation and self-interest, exploring the enigmatic world of spiritual figures entangled in the realm of crime and punishment. The talented actress Shikha Talsania portrays the role of Sharda Maa with finesse and depth.
As “Scoop” unfolds, viewers are taken on a gripping journey through the tumultuous realm of crime reporting, shedding light on the challenges faced by women in this field. Inspired by real-life events, the series showcases the resilience, courage, and determination of Jagriti Pathak, based on journalist Jigna Vora. Through her character, the series delves into the intricacies of the Jigna Vora case, the murder of senior journalist J Dey, and the web of connections that intertwine the lives of journalists, criminals, and law enforcement officers.
With an ensemble cast of talented actors bringing these characters to life, “Scoop” offers a captivating narrative that reflects the intricacies of the world of crime reporting and the blurred lines between truth and deception. Viewers are transported into the gritty underbelly of Mumbai’s crime landscape, witnessing the power struggles, investigations, and personal sacrifices that define the lives of those involved in uncovering the truth.
Hansal Mehta and Mrinmoyee Lagoo Vaikul, the production duo behind “Scoop,” have skillfully adapted Jigna Vora’s book, “Behind the Bars in Byculla: My Days in Prison,” to create a compelling web series that captivates audiences with its gripping storyline and compelling performances.
As viewers delve into the world of “Scoop,” they witness the parallel between the fictional characters and their real-life counterparts, gaining a deeper understanding of the events that shaped Mumbai’s crime reporting landscape. The series serves as a testament to the power of storytelling, shedding light on the often overlooked stories of journalists who risk their lives to uncover the truth and the intricate web of connections that exist within the world of crime.
With its release on Netflix, “Scoop” has garnered critical acclaim and captivated audiences with its realistic portrayal of real-life events and the indomitable spirit of Jagriti Pathak, who navigates the treacherous path of crime reporting with unwavering determination. As viewers immerse themselves in the series, they are reminded of the resilience of journalists and the power of the truth in a world where shadows and secrets lurk at every corner.