KD: The Devil was one of the most anticipated Kannada films of 2026 — a star-studded, big-budget 1970s-era gangster drama with Dhruva Sarja, Sanjay Dutt, Sudeep, and Shilpa Shetty. The theatrical run was mixed — but now it is available on ZEE5 from June 5, 2026. If you missed it in theatres, here is everything you need to know before you press play.
KD The Devil OTT — now streaming on ZEE5!
- OTT Platform: ZEE5 (India + International)
- OTT Release Date: June 5, 2026 — streaming NOW
- Available in: Kannada, Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam
- International: ZEE5 global app — US, UK, Canada, Australia with subtitles
- Theatrical collection: ₹24.19 crore worldwide
What is KD The Devil about?
Set in the 1970s, KD: The Devil follows Kaalidasa Alam — aka KD — a fierce and feared gangster navigating a dangerous underworld of violence, power, and vengeance. The film is a period-style action thriller with a retro aesthetic — think dark alleys, vintage costumes, and old-school mass heroism. Director Prem brings a hyper-stylised vision to the screen — loud, dramatic, and unapologetically commercial. The film also got an A (adults only) certificate from CBFC for its gory violence and intense action sequences.
KD The Devil full cast
- Dhruva Sarja as Kaalidasa “KD” Alam — the lead hero
- Sanjay Dutt as Dhak Deva — menacing and commanding
- Sudeep as Kaala Bhairava — standout supporting performance
- Shilpa Shetty as Satyavati
- Reeshma Nanaiah as Machhlakshmi — the female lead
- V. Ravichandran as Annayappa
- Ramesh Aravind as Dharma
- Jisshu Sengupta as Rudra Mishra
- P. Ravi Shankar — strong supporting role
- Nora Fatehi — item song “Sarse Ninna Seraga Sarse”
Director and crew
- Director: Prem
- Producer: Venkat K. Narayana (KVN Productions — same as Peddi)
- Music: Arjun Janya
- Cinematography: William David
- Editor: Sanketh Achar
- Runtime: 141 minutes (2 hours 21 minutes)
- Language: Kannada (with Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, Malayalam dubbed versions)
- Certificate: A (Adults Only)
Honest review — hit or miss?
KD: The Devil is a film of two halves. On one hand, the star power is undeniable — Sanjay Dutt and Sudeep bring genuine screen presence and some of the mass action sequences work really well. The 1970s visual design is ambitious and the retro aesthetic is unlike most Kannada films releasing today.
On the other hand, the film struggles with pacing. Over-the-top heroic elevations, a frustrating romantic track, and a story that had massive potential but uneven execution let it down. Critics gave it around 2.25 to 2.5 out of 5 — calling it a disappointing experience despite its ambition. However, the OTT format might actually work in its favour — home viewers tend to be more patient with uneven genre films and the dense period detailing is easier to appreciate at your own pace.
Should you watch KD The Devil on ZEE5?
If you are a fan of mass Kannada action cinema — yes, give it a try on ZEE5. The cast alone makes it worth one watch. Sanjay Dutt and Sudeep in particular have moments that remind you why they are legends. Just go in with realistic expectations — this is not KGF. It is a flawed but visually ambitious film that works better at home than it probably did in theatres.
- Genre: Period Gangster / Action Thriller
- Language: Kannada / Hindi Dubbed on ZEE5
- Theatrical Release: April 30, 2026
- OTT: ZEE5 — streaming from June 5, 2026
- Runtime: 2 hours 21 minutes
- Certificate: A (Adults Only)
- Our Rating: ⭐ 6.0 / 10
Frequently asked questions
Where can I watch KD The Devil online?
KD: The Devil is now streaming exclusively on ZEE5 from June 5, 2026. It is available in Kannada, Hindi, Telugu, Tamil, and Malayalam. International audiences can watch it on the ZEE5 global app with subtitle support.
What is the story of KD The Devil?
KD: The Devil is set in the 1970s and follows Kaalidasa “KD” Alam — a feared gangster played by Dhruva Sarja — as he navigates a deadly underworld of power, violence, and revenge. The film is a stylised period gangster thriller directed by Prem.
Who plays the villain in KD The Devil?
Sanjay Dutt plays Dhak Deva — the primary antagonist in KD: The Devil. Sudeep also appears in a pivotal role as Kaala Bhairava. Both deliver strong performances that are among the highlights of the film.
Is KD The Devil hit or flop?
KD: The Devil was considered a box office disappointment, collecting ₹24.19 crore worldwide against a much larger budget. Mixed word-of-mouth and a crowded summer theatrical window affected its performance. However, its ZEE5 OTT release is expected to find it a wider audience.
What is the age rating of KD The Devil?
KD: The Devil has received an A certificate (Adults Only) from the CBFC for its gory violence, intense action sequences, and mature content. Viewer discretion is advised — this film is not suitable for children.