A mysterious thief remains several steps ahead.
ZEE5 Global has announced its upcoming bilingual original series Kaakee Circus, set to premiere on April 10, 2026.
The Tamil and Malayalam series promises a high-energy blend of fantasy, comedy and thriller elements, set within the unusual backdrop of a sub-jail.
Originally titled Once Upon a Time in Kayamkulam, the show has been rebranded to better reflect its eccentric tone and unpredictable storytelling.
Directed and written by Ameen Barif, the series is produced by Srinithi Sagar under Rise East Entertainment.
The seven-episode drama features an ensemble cast including Munishkanth, Subash Selvam, Rajesh Madhavan and Gowthami Nair.
Supporting performances come from Vinsu Rache, Savithri, Amrudha, Abdul Lee, Maruthupandiyan, Rakesh Ushar, Vigneshwar, Arnukumar Pavumba and Chithtirasenan.
Set in a quiet coastal town, the story begins with a bizarre crime that throws a local sub-jail into chaos.
Instead of a breakout, someone mysteriously breaks into the prison, sparking confusion among officials and inmates alike.
A book-obsessed jailer and an overeager constable attempt to untangle the strange situation unfolding before them.
Meanwhile, a mysterious thief remains several steps ahead, watching events spiral into what becomes a chaotic spectacle.
As townsfolk, amateur detectives and inmates get involved, the investigation turns into a wildly unpredictable chase.
Each clue leads to stranger revelations, reinforcing the show’s central theme that crime transcends borders, logic and language.
Speaking about the project, Ameen Barif said the story allowed him to experiment with tone while remaining rooted in a relatable small-town setting.
He highlighted that the series balances comedy, thriller and fantasy without losing the authenticity of its characters’ reactions to chaos.
Barif also praised ZEE5 Global for supporting the project’s creative vision and preserving its unique quirks.
Munishkanth described Kaakee Circus as an unpredictable and fast-moving experience filled with humour and emotional depth.
He added that each scene carries tension, making it impossible to anticipate how events will unfold next.
The actor emphasised that the series feels both fresh and grounded, offering audiences something different from conventional storytelling.
With its unusual premise and lively ensemble, the show aims to deliver an engaging and unconventional viewing experience.
Audiences across Tamil and Malayalam markets can expect a chaotic yet entertaining ride when Kaakee Circus begins streaming on April 10.
As ZEE5 Global continues expanding its original content, the series reinforces its focus on bold, regional storytelling for global audiences.








