Stories of ordinary individuals standing tall against corrupt systems, criminal networks, and oppressive powers have long resonated with audiences. With Costao premiering on ZEE5 Global on May 1, the platform once again brings to life a compelling tale of courage and conviction, where one man dares to defy impossible odds.
Inspired by true events, Costao stars Nawazuddin Siddiqui as a fearless customs officer who challenges a sprawling empire of smuggling and corruption. This gripping film joins a rich legacy of Indian cinema where singular, unbreakable protagonists fight against the tide. Here’s a look at Costao and other iconic Bollywood and OTT films that spotlight one man’s fight against all odds.
1. Costao (2025)
Platform: ZEE5 Global | Premiere Date: May 1, 2025
Set in the turbulent world of 1990s Goa, Costao is inspired by the real-life story of a heroic customs officer who stood alone against a corrupt empire built on crime and smuggling. Nawazuddin Siddiqui plays Costao Fernandes, a man driven by purpose and haunted by his past. As he takes on not just the criminal underworld but also the very system he serves, the film explores themes of sacrifice, moral conflict, and redemption. With intense action, emotional depth, and high-stakes drama, Costao promises a power-packed narrative of one man’s defiance in the face of danger. The cast also includes Priya Bapat, Kishore Kumar G, Gagan Dev Riar, and Hussain Dalal. Stream it on ZEE5 Global starting May 1.
2. Pad Man (2018)
Streaming on: ZEE5 Global / Netflix
Inspired by the life of Arunachalam Muruganantham, a revolutionary in menstrual hygiene, Pad Man stars Akshay Kumar as a small-town innovator who challenges regressive taboos and the patriarchy to make affordable sanitary pads accessible to rural women. Mocked by society, abandoned by loved ones, and dismissed by the system, his character pushes forward to create lasting change, proving that even a “simple man” can start a revolution.
3. Chandu Champion (2024)
Platform: Netflix
Directed by Kabir Khan, Chandu Champion tells the inspiring real-life story of Murlikant Petkar, India’s first Paralympic gold medalist. Played by Kartik Aaryan, the film follows Chandu’s journey from a soldier to a war survivor, and eventually, a sports hero who never gave up, despite physical, political, and social hurdles. The movie celebrates the indomitable human spirit and the will to break barriers that limit the dreams of differently-abled athletes.
- Ghoomer (2023)
Streaming on: ZEE5 Global / JioCinema
Ghoomer follows the story of Anina (played by Saiyami Kher), a rising cricketer who loses her right arm in an accident, just before her international debut. Enter Paddy, a failed ex-cricketer (played by Abhishek Bachchan), who mentors her in redefining her technique and spirit. Together, they take on the system, the selectors, and society’s limitations around disability. This film is a celebration of resilience and breaking stereotypes, where Anina’s comeback becomes a metaphor for beating life’s toughest challenges.
5. Manjhi – The Mountain Man (2015)
Platform: Netflix
Based on an extraordinary true story, Manjhi chronicles the life of Dashrath Manjhi (played by Nawazuddin Siddiqui), a poor laborer who, after losing his wife due to inaccessible medical help, carves a path through a mountain—with just a hammer and chisel—so no one else suffers the same fate. His decades-long struggle is a literal and symbolic battle against a system that neglected his village. A portrait of obsession, resilience, and revolution.
