Sacred Games

About Sacred Games

Sacred Games is a highly acclaimed Indian crime TV drama series that premiered on Netflix in 2018. Based on Vikram Chandra's critically acclaimed novel of the same name, the show has gained a massive following for its gripping storyline, intense performances, and brilliant execution. Sacred Games is set in the city of Mumbai and explores the nexus between the organized crime underworld, corrupt politicians, and the police force.

Explore

• About
• Making / Production
• Actors
• Trivia / Interesting Facts
• Awards
• Quotes
• Music
• Soundtrack

About

The story revolves around two main characters - Sartaj Singh (played by Saif Ali Khan), a troubled police officer, and Ganesh Gaitonde (played by Nawazuddin Siddiqui), a notorious gangster. The series begins with Gaitonde's ominous warning to Sartaj about the city's impending doom in 25 days. Sartaj embarks on a mission to unravel the mystery and save the city while simultaneously delving into his own dark past.

With multiple subplots and a nonlinear narrative structure, Sacred Games keeps viewers on the edge of their seats throughout its gripping eight-episode season. The show explores themes of corruption, religion, politics, and the human psyche, making it a thought-provoking and engaging watch.

Making / Production

Sacred Games boasts top-notch production value and direction. The show was co-directed by Anurag Kashyap and Vikramaditya Motwane, both acclaimed filmmakers in the Indian film industry. The series was shot on location in Mumbai, lending an authentic atmosphere to the narrative. The attention to detail in the set design, costumes, and cinematography adds to the overall immersive experience of the show.

Actors

• Saif Ali Khan as Sartaj Singh - Khan delivers a powerful performance as the conflicted police officer trying to make sense of Gaitonde's warning.
• Nawazuddin Siddiqui as Ganesh Gaitonde - Siddiqui portrays the enigmatic gangster with depth and charisma, making Gaitonde one of the most memorable characters in Indian television.
• Radhika Apte as Anjali Mathur - Apte brings a nuanced performance as a dedicated intelligence officer who aids Sartaj in his investigation.
• Pankaj Tripathi as Khanna Guruji - Tripathi's portrayal of a religious guru with hidden motives adds an extra layer of complexity to the show.
• Kubbra Sait as Kuckoo - Sait's performance as Gaitonde's love interest is both vulnerable and captivating.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• Sacred Games was the first Indian original series produced by Netflix.
• It was one of the most expensive Indian TV series, with a budget of approximately $10 million.
• The show received critical acclaim for its fearless portrayal of sensitive religious and political topics.
• Several scenes in Sacred Games were improvised, adding a spontaneous and authentic feel to the performances.

Awards

Sacred Games has received numerous awards and nominations for its exceptional performances and storytelling. It won the Best Drama Series award at the 2019 International Emmy Awards, making it the first Indian series to receive this prestigious recognition.

Quotes

• "Sometimes, God makes special people... and then breaks the mold." - Ganesh Gaitonde
• "There is no freedom... when fear is more powerful than love." - Sartaj Singh
• "In this city, anything is possible." - Ganesh Gaitonde

Music

The soundtrack of Sacred Games adds depth and atmosphere to the storytelling. The fusion of traditional Indian music with contemporary sounds underscores the show's cultural backdrop. The haunting theme song, composed by Alokananda Dasgupta, perfectly sets the tone for the dark and mysterious world of Sacred Games.

Soundtrack

• "Kaam 25" - Divine
• "Mere Apne" - Kailash Kher
• "Duniya" - Rachita Arora
• "Naina Barse Rimjhim Rimjhim" - Yashita Sharma
• "Waqt Ne Kiya Kya Haseen Sitam" - Lata Mangeshkar