Once Upon A Crime (MX Player) Webseries Cast, Wiki, Story, Trailer, Release date and more

Language: Hindi Genre: Crime, Thriller, Mystery, Web Series Year: 2020

The darkness of a writer’s creations – turning into reality. Can the past come alive – or is it all just imagination?

Watch on MX Player

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Once Upon A Crime: Unmasking the Stars of the MX Player Web Series

The world of Indian digital content is a constantly evolving canvas, and few genres have captivated audiences quite like the regional-language mystery thriller. One such compelling series that found a wide audience on platforms like MX Player and Hoichoi is Once Upon A Crime. Released in 2020, this intense seven-episode saga draws the viewer into a web of amnesia, blackmail, and a long-buried past, all anchored by a phenomenal ensemble cast of veteran and rising stars.

More than just a whodunit, the series is a character-driven psychological drama, and its success rests squarely on the shoulders of its talented lead actors and actresses. The show brings together a cross-section of Indian talent, blending the gravitas of a Bollywood veteran with the flair of established Bengali cinema stars.

This article delves into the careers and contributions of the primary actors and actresses who brought the dark and twisted narrative of Once Upon A Crime to life.

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The Master of Suspense: Rajat Kapoor as Sougata Sinha

The entire narrative of Once Upon A Crime revolves around the character of Sougata Sinha, a successful thriller novelist whose past unexpectedly catches up with him. Playing this complex, tortured protagonist is the versatile and critically acclaimed actor and filmmaker, Rajat Kapoor.

Sougata is a man of intellectual depth who returns to Kolkata with his wife and daughter after achieving best-seller status in the States. His promotional drive for a new novel is violently derailed when he is confronted by a girl who claims to be Sulagana, his former girlfriend believed to be dead, who then blackmails him over the murder of his best friend, Kanai. The character’s descent into self-doubt, memory loss, and the paranoia of a possible conspiracy demands a performance of immense nuance, which Kapoor delivers expertly.

Rajat Kapoor: A Career of Artistic Depth

Rajat Kapoor is a titan of parallel and mainstream Indian cinema, known for his ability to seamlessly transition between acting, writing, and directing. Born in Delhi, his artistic journey began in theatre before he went on to study at the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) in Pune.

His mainstream breakthrough came with his roles in the watershed films Dil Chahta Hai (2001) and Mira Nair’s internationally acclaimed Monsoon Wedding (2001), where he portrayed an abusive uncle.

Highlights of His Illustrious Career:

• Directorial Vision: Kapoor has garnered significant praise as a director and writer, notably for the National Film Award-winning independent film Raghu Romeo (2003) and the critically adored Ankhon Dekhi (2014), which he also starred in.
• Versatility in Acting: His filmography spans multiple genres, including the box office success Bheja Fry (2007) and pivotal roles in films like Corporate (2006), Drishyam (2015), and Kapoor & Sons (2016).
• OTT Presence: Prior to Once Upon A Crime, Kapoor had already become a prominent face in the OTT space with notable performances in series like Code M and the Bengali-language thriller Shobdo Jobdo, further establishing his gravitas in the digital medium.

Kapoor’s portrayal of Sougata is a masterclass in controlled performance, capturing the writer’s intellectual struggle as his own life begins to mirror the darkest plot twists of his novels. His participation elevated Once Upon A Crime beyond a regional thriller to a high-quality psychological drama.

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The Actress of Gravitas: Paayel Sarkar

While Rajat Kapoor embodies the tortured novelist, the series’ emotional core and the anchor to Sougata’s present reality is his wife, Aditi. This role is played by the immensely popular and talented Bengali actress, Paayel Sarkar.

Aditi’s character represents the pillar of the family, attempting to hold her husband’s life together as his past threatens to dismantle their present. She must navigate her husband’s increasing paranoia and amnesia while facing the frightening claims made by the mysterious Sulagana. The role demands a balance of vulnerability, skepticism, and steely resolve, qualities Paayel Sarkar is known for bringing to her characters.

Paayel Sarkar: A Stalwart of Bengali Cinema

Paayel Sarkar is a household name in the Bengali entertainment industry (Tollywood), with an extensive career that spans film, television, and the burgeoning web series domain.

A Look at Her Noteworthy Achievements:

• Bengali Film Success: Sarkar has starred in numerous successful Bengali films, establishing herself as a leading lady and a versatile performer. Key films include the romance Prem Aamar (2009), the critically acclaimed ensemble drama Chotushkone (2014), and the detective thriller Eagoler Chokh (2016).
• Awards and Recognition: Her acting prowess has been recognized with awards such as the Anandalok Puraskar for Best Actress for her performance in the film Le Chakka (2010).
• Beyond Tollywood: She made her Bollywood Hindi debut in the 2015 adult comedy film Guddu Ki Gun, demonstrating her willingness to explore different industries and genres.
• Prominent Web Presence: She has also been a prolific actress in the OTT space, starring in various Bengali web series, which made her a perfect fit for the bilingual Once Upon A Crime.

Paayel Sarkar’s presence as Aditi lends the necessary emotional weight to the story, contrasting sharply with the darkness and ambiguity surrounding her husband’s alleged past.

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The Enigma: Mumtaz Sorcar as the Mysterious Woman

The catalyst for all the drama and psychological torment in the web series is the mysterious figure who confronts Sougata—the former girlfriend, Sulagana, who allegedly committed suicide but returns with claims of murder and an intense desire for justice or revenge. This enigmatic role is played by the gifted actress Mumtaz Sorcar.

The dynamic between Sougata and Sulagana is the very essence of the series’ mystery, forcing the protagonist, and the audience, to question the difference between reality and a clever conspiracy orchestrated by a mysterious woman. Sorcar’s portrayal had to carry a mix of haunting fragility and sinister intent, making the audience unsure if she is a victim, a ghost, or a ruthless blackmailer.

Mumtaz Sorcar: From Boxing Ring to Silver Screen

Mumtaz Sorcar brings a distinct and unconventional background to her acting career, which makes her a standout performer.

• Unique Heritage: She is the youngest daughter of the world-famous Indian magician P. C. Sorcar Junior, a legacy that often adds an air of mystique to her public persona.
• Sporting Credentials: Beyond acting, Mumtaz Sorcar is an accomplished athlete. She is a trained boxer, having trained under the Bengal Amateur Boxing Federation, and is a YMCA gold medalist in shot put, showcasing a dedication and discipline that translates to her performances.
• Breakthrough Roles: Sorcar gained national recognition for her dual-language debut in the 2016 boxing-drama Saala Khadoos (Hindi) and its Tamil version, Irudhi Suttru. In both films, she played the role of Lakshmi (Luz), a young female boxer, drawing heavily on her own athletic background.
• Tollywood & Web Work: Her Bengali filmography is also notable, including the successful fantasy-comedy Bhooter Bhabishyat (2012). She has appeared in other web series, showing a comfort with the fast-paced, high-intensity demands of the OTT format.

As the shadowy figure of Sulagana, Mumtaz Sorcar is perfectly cast to embody the compelling ambiguity that drives the mystery forward, forcing the protagonist into an emotional and physical breakdown.

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The Pillar of the Ensemble: Subrat Dutta

No thriller is complete without a compelling supporting cast, and the presence of actor Subrat Dutta underscores the ensemble’s strength. While the specific details of his character in Once Upon A Crime are less documented than the leads, his involvement ensures a powerful, layered performance typical of the veteran actor. Given the plot’s focus on a historical murder and its modern-day investigation, Dutta likely plays a critical supporting role, such as a skeptical police officer, the deceased friend’s brother, or a key figure from Sougata’s past.

Subrat Dutta: The Method Actor with Diverse Appeal

Subrat Dutta is an alumnus of the esteemed National School of Drama (NSD), a testament to his strong foundation in acting, which is evident in his versatile filmography across multiple languages.

Career Breadth and Highlights:

• Bollywood Recognition: Dutta is known for memorable roles in significant Bollywood projects. His performance in the Aamir Khan-starrer mystery-thriller Talaash: The Answer Lies Within (2012) and the action film Tango Charlie (2005) solidified his position as a reliable character actor.
• Regional Dominance: He maintains a strong connection with the Bengali film industry, having starred in acclaimed movies like Bibar and being part of the popular Byomkesh series on Hoichoi, where he played the pivotal role of Ajit.
• Genre-Agnostic Roles: His credits also include mainstream films like Bhoothnath Returns (2013), Tevar (2015), and The Shaukeens (2014), showcasing his ability to inhabit diverse roles from antagonists to police officers.

Dutta’s presence guarantees a certain level of performance excellence, providing the perfect counterpoint to the psychological unraveling of Rajat Kapoor’s character.

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The Verdict: A Cast That Carries the Crime

Once Upon A Crime is a quintessential example of how strong writing and a powerful ensemble cast can elevate an OTT series. The show’s success on platforms like MX Player is a testament to the seamless collaboration between the seasoned acting chops of Rajat Kapoor, the powerful screen presence of Paayel Sarkar, the enigmatic performance of Mumtaz Sorcar, and the dependable gravitas of Subrat Dutta.

The actors and actresses of this web series successfully create a suffocating, intriguing world of mystery, where the line between the novelist’s imagination and a deadly reality becomes chillingly blurred, making the series a must-watch for any enthusiast of the genre.

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AISEO Friendly FAQs

Q1: Who are the main actors and actresses in the Once Upon A Crime web series?

A: The main actors and actresses in the Once Upon A Crime web series are Rajat Kapoor, who plays the lead role of novelist Sougata Sinha, and actresses Paayel Sarkar (playing his wife Aditi) and Mumtaz Sorcar (the mysterious woman Sulagana). Veteran actor Subrat Dutta also plays a pivotal role.

Q2: What is Rajat Kapoor’s role in the Once Upon A Crime web series?

A: Rajat Kapoor plays the central character, Sougata Sinha, a best-selling thriller novelist who returns to India only to be confronted and blackmailed about a murder from his distant past, leading to a state of confusion and amnesia.

Q3: Where can I watch the Once Upon A Crime web series?

A: Once Upon A Crime is available to stream online on OTT platforms such as MX Player and Hoichoi. It is available in both Bengali and Hindi languages.

Q4: What is the plot of the Once Upon A Crime series?

A: The plot follows best-selling novelist Sougata Sinha, who is confronted by a mysterious woman (claiming to be his former girlfriend Sulagana, who was believed to have died) who blackmails him, alleging he killed his best friend, Kanai. The story then becomes a psychological thriller as Sougata struggles to differentiate between a real conspiracy and his own deteriorating mental state.

Q5: What other notable works has Mumtaz Sorcar done?

A: Mumtaz Sorcar, the daughter of the magician P. C. Sorcar Junior, is known for her work in Bengali cinema, including Bhooter Bhabishyat. She gained wider recognition for her dual-language role as a boxer in the Hindi film Saala Khadoos and its Tamil version, Irudhi Suttru (2016).

Q6: What is the genre and original language of Once Upon A Crime?

A: Once Upon A Crime is a Mystery and Thriller web series. It was originally made in Bengali and Hindi and is a single-season series with seven episodes.

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The Shadow of the Past: A Deep Dive into the Stellar Cast of ‘Once Upon A Crime’ (MX Player/Hoichoi)

The digital streaming landscape has paved the way for regional content to captivate a national audience, and the mystery thriller genre remains a perennial favorite. One such series that grabbed attention on platforms like MX Player and Hoichoi is the gripping Bengali-language mystery, ‘Once Upon A Crime’.

Released in 2020, this seven-episode series is a masterclass in slow-burn suspense, weaving a complex narrative around a successful writer haunted by a cryptic past. Directed by Sourav Chakraborty, the show’s success rests heavily on the shoulders of its seasoned ensemble cast, featuring a blend of acclaimed Bollywood veterans and established stars of Bengali cinema.

This article offers an in-depth look at the talented actors and actresses who brought the chilling story of ‘Once Upon A Crime’ to life, exploring their careers, notable works, and their crucial roles in this intriguing web series.

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The Premise of Intrigue: Unpacking ‘Once Upon A Crime’

Before delving into the cast, it is essential to understand the labyrinthine plot that serves as the backdrop for their performances.

The Storyline: When Fiction Blurs with Reality

The plot of Once Upon A Crime centres on Sougata Sinha, a best-selling thriller novelist who returns to his home city, Kolkata, after years abroad. His comfortable life and successful career are violently disrupted when he is confronted by an enigmatic figure who claims he committed a heinous murder years ago—the killing of his own best friend, Kanai.

The core conflict of the series is rooted in Sougata’s potential amnesia and the blurry line between his real-life past and the dark, sinister worlds he creates in his novels. As he spirals into a void of fear and confusion, grappling with the possibility of being a killer, he must determine if he is the victim of a sophisticated conspiracy or merely prey to his own fragile imagination.

• Genre: Mystery, Suspense, Thriller
• Original Language: Bengali (also available in Hindi on MX Player)
• Director: Sourav Chakraborty
• Streaming Platform: MX Player, Hoichoi

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The Leading Man: Rajat Kapoor as Sougata Sinha

The psychological intensity of the series hinged on the lead actor’s ability to portray a character wrestling with an inner demon and a dubious memory. Veteran actor, filmmaker, and writer Rajat Kapoor embodies this conflicted protagonist, Sougata Sinha.

Rajat Kapoor: A Versatile Thespian

Rajat Kapoor is a revered figure in Indian cinema, known for his work across parallel and mainstream Hindi cinema, as well as his distinguished career as a director and writer.

Early Life and Career Milestones:

• Educational Roots: An alumnus of the prestigious Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Kapoor’s passion for cinema began early, and he started his career as a theatre artist in Delhi.
• Parallel Cinema Debut: He debuted in Shyam Benegal’s satirical comedy Mandi (1983) and gained early recognition in experimental cinema like Khayal Gatha (1989).
• Mainstream Breakthrough: He gained widespread recognition in mainstream Bollywood with pivotal roles in Dil Chahta Hai (2001) and Mira Nair’s internationally acclaimed Monsoon Wedding (2001), where he played a complex, abusive uncle.

Notable Filmography Highlights:

• Acclaimed Roles: Kapoor is famous for his nuanced performances in films such as Corporate (2006), the cult comedy hit Bheja Fry (2007), and the family drama Kapoor & Sons (2016).
• Critically Acclaimed Direction: A three-time National Award winner, his directorial ventures are as notable as his acting. He won a National Award for Best Feature Film in Hindi for Raghu Romeo (2003) and directed the highly praised slice-of-life film Ankhon Dekhi (2014).
• Recent Web Presence: His work in the OTT space includes popular Hindi web series like Code M and Lootere.

In Once Upon A Crime, Rajat Kapoor anchors the series with his signature controlled intensity, making the audience question Sougata’s sanity and innocence right alongside him.

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The Intriguing Actresses: Paayel Sarkar and Mumtaz Sorcar

The suspense of the thriller is significantly driven by the enigmatic female characters, brilliantly portrayed by the leading actresses, Paayel Sarkar and Mumtaz Sorcar.

Paayel Sarkar

A prominent face in the Bengali film industry (Tollywood), Paayel Sarkar has built a career spanning over two decades, working with some of the biggest names in the regional industry.

Career Highlights:

• Tollywood Stardom: Paayel Sarkar made her acting debut in the Bengali film Shudhu Tumi (2004) and rose to prominence with successful films like Prem Amar (2009) and the Srijit Mukherji directed ensemble film Chotushkone (2014).
• Acclaim and Awards: Her talent has been recognized with awards, including the Anandalok Award for Best Actress for Le Chakka (2010) and the Kalakar Award for Best Actress for Jomer Raja Dilo Bor (2016).
• Hindi & TV Work: She ventured into Bollywood with the adult comedy Guddu Ki Gun (2015) and has appeared in Hindi television serials like Love Story and Waqt Batayega Kaun Apna Kaun Paraya.
• Political Life: In addition to her acting career, Paayel Sarkar entered politics in 2021, joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Her role in Once Upon A Crime is crucial, likely adding layers of complexity and suspicion to the narrative surrounding Sougata’s life.

Mumtaz Sorcar

Mumtaz Sorcar is an actress whose eclectic background—combining her lineage and her personal pursuits—mirrors her diverse career choices in cinema.

Unique Background:

• A Magical Lineage: Mumtaz Sorcar is the daughter of the world-renowned Indian magician P. C. Sorcar Junior and his wife, Jayashree Devi.
• A Natural Athlete: Before settling into acting, she was a dedicated athlete. She trained in Boxing at the Bengal Amateur Boxing Federation and is also a YMCA gold medalist in Shot Put. She is additionally a trained classical Jazz dancer.

Film and Web Series Journey:

• Bengali Films: She made her feature film debut in the Bengali film 033 (2010) and gained recognition for her role in the hit comedy-horror Bhooter Bhabishyat (2012).
• National Crossover: Mumtaz made a significant mark on the national stage by starring in the bilingual sports drama Irudhi Suttru (Tamil) and Saala Khadoos (Hindi) in 2016, where she played the role of a young female boxer, Payal. This role perfectly leveraged her real-life athletic training.
• OTT Presence: Her foray into web series includes Charitraheen 2 and Shobdo Jobdo.

Mumtaz Sorcar’s presence in Once Upon A Crime likely brings a strong, mysterious energy to the character, a perfect fit for a thriller where not everything is as it seems.

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The Pillars of Support: Subrat Dutta and the Director

A compelling thriller needs a solid supporting cast and a capable visionary behind the camera, both of which Once Upon A Crime possesses.

Subrat Dutta

Subrat Dutta is an acclaimed actor known for his intense performances and versatile work across Hindi and Bengali cinema. He is a classically trained artist, an alumnus of the National School of Drama (NSD).

Key Career Highlights:

• Theatre and Training: After completing his master’s degree from NSD, he received a scholarship and trained at the Central School of Speech and Drama in London, beginning his career as a dedicated theatre artist.
• Bilingual Versatility: Subrat Dutta has appeared in over 45 films and is renowned for his ability to seamlessly transition between Bengali and Hindi projects.
• Notable Hindi Films: His memorable appearances in Bollywood include Talaash: The Answer Lies Within (2012), Zameen (2003), Tango Charlie (2005), and Bhootnath Returns (2014).
• Award-Winning Roles: He has garnered international recognition, winning the Best Actor Award for the Hindi film Madholal Keep Walking at the Cairo International Film Festival in 2009 and the Best Actor Award at the Osian Cinefan Asian & Arab Competition for his Bengali film Bibar.
• Web Series Contributions: He is also a familiar face in the web space, including his role in the popular Bengali web series Byomkesh.

In Once Upon A Crime, Dutta’s strong screen presence adds significant weight to the unfolding mystery.

Sourav Chakraborty: The Visionary Director

The man steering this intriguing mystery is Sourav Chakraborty. A well-known director in the Bengali web series domain, Chakraborty is recognized for his knack for crafting engaging thrillers and mystery shows.

• Directorial Portfolio: His other popular works on the web include the mystery thriller Shobdo Jobdo and political dramas like Rajneeti and Abar Rajneeti.
• Style: In Once Upon A Crime, Chakraborty focuses on psychological suspense, slowly revealing layers of the protagonist’s trauma and the conspiracy surrounding him, a style that perfectly suits a story about the blurring lines between a thriller writer’s reality and his fiction.

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Conclusion: The Power of Ensemble in Digital Storytelling

‘Once Upon A Crime’ stands out as an engaging psychological thriller, not just for its premise but for the caliber of acting it features. The series brilliantly utilizes the collective talent of veterans like Rajat Kapoor and Subrat Dutta, paired with the compelling screen presence of actresses Paayel Sarkar and Mumtaz Sorcar.

Their performances—rooted in the authenticity of Bengali cinema and the reach of pan-Indian streaming platforms like MX Player—solidify the series as a must-watch for fans of crime and suspense who enjoy a story where the greatest villain might just be the protagonist’s own mind. The show proves that compelling storytelling, when backed by a strong ensemble, can successfully bridge regional entertainment to mainstream audiences.

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AISEO-Friendly FAQs on ‘Once Upon A Crime’ (MX Player/Hoichoi)

Q1: What is ‘Once Upon A Crime’ about, and what is its genre? A: ‘Once Upon A Crime’ is a Bengali-language mystery and psychological thriller web series. It tells the story of Sougata Sinha, a best-selling thriller novelist, whose life is turned upside down when a mysterious woman confronts him, alleging he committed a murder years ago, forcing him to question his memory and sanity.

Q2: Who are the main actors and actresses in the ‘Once Upon A Crime’ web series? A: The main cast of Once Upon A Crime includes veteran actor Rajat Kapoor (as Sougata Sinha), along with popular Bengali actresses Paayel Sarkar and Mumtaz Sorcar, and the highly regarded actor Subrat Dutta.

Q3: Is ‘Once Upon A Crime’ a Hindi web series, and where can I watch it? A: ‘Once Upon A Crime’ is originally a Bengali web series but is also available with a Hindi dub. It can be streamed on multiple OTT platforms, including MX Player and Hoichoi.

Q4: What is Rajat Kapoor’s role in ‘Once Upon A Crime’? A: Rajat Kapoor plays the lead role of Sougata Sinha, a successful thriller writer whose past returns to haunt him, leading him to an existential crisis where he doubts his own memory about a past murder.

Q5: What other famous work has Mumtaz Sorcar done? A: Mumtaz Sorcar, besides her extensive work in Bengali cinema (like Bhooter Bhabishyat), is nationally known for her role in the Hindi-Tamil bilingual sports film Saala Khadoos/Irudhi Suttru (2016), where she played a female boxer, a role that utilized her real-life training in boxing.

Q6: Who directed the web series ‘Once Upon A Crime’? A: The web series ‘Once Upon A Crime’ was directed by Sourav Chakraborty, a filmmaker well-known for directing other popular Bengali web series in the mystery and political thriller genres.