Directed by
Neeraj Pandey
Read the complete plot summary and ending explained for Special 26 (2013). From turning points to emotional moments, uncover what really happened and why it matters.
The film begins on March 18, 1987, featuring a CBI interview conducted by the characters portrayed by Akshay Kumar and Anupam Kher. The storyline then transitions into flashbacks, as we follow Ajay Singh (played by Akshay Kumar), who contacts a local police station to request additional manpower for a CBI raid. He speaks to SI Ranveer Singh (portrayed by Jimmy Shergill), who agrees to send support officers. Alongside his accomplices, P.K. Sharma (Anupam Kher), Jinder (Rajesh Sharma), and Iqbal (Kishor Kadam), Ajay proceeds to conduct the raid.
After successfully raiding a minister’s residence, it is uncovered that Ajay and Sharma are imposters posing as CBI officers, along with their cohorts. They then proceed to their respective hometowns, blending back into normal life. Here, we are introduced to Ajay’s romantic interest, Priya (Kajal Aggarwal), a teacher engaged to be married. The group reconvenes in Chandigarh for Sharma’s daughter’s wedding, where old friendships are rekindled.
Meanwhile, Ranveer along with his superior meet the minister involved in the earlier raid. The minister insists that the details remain confidential to maintain his public image, leading to Ranveer’s suspension along with his colleague Shanti (Divya Dutta) for their negligence.
In New Delhi, CBI officer Waseem Khan (Manoj Bajpayee) is depicted living a domestic life with his wife (Neetu Singh) and child. After he apprehends a criminal named Gupta, we gain insight into his character. Eventually, a disheartened Ranveer crosses paths with Khan, and they unite their efforts to capture Ajay and his accomplices.
The plot thickens as Ajay orchestrates a raid on a trading business in Kolkata, masquerading as officials from the Income Tax Department. This second raid, though challenging, concludes successfully. Despite the risk of exposure linked to black money, Khan pushes for the incident to be reported in the press. Spurred by the intrigue, Ajay and Sharma scheme for a high-stakes operation in Mumbai.
As Ajay prepares for the final heist, his relationship with Priya is further explored, with her wanting to accompany him. He suggests they meet at the airport that afternoon. Conversely, Ranveer digs deeper into Sharma’s background, leading to a wiretap on his phone. Khan’s team gains critical information, tracking the crew to their hotel in Mumbai as they plot to rob a major jewelry store.
In a twist, Ajay posts a job advertisement seeking “50 dynamic graduates” to serve as a cover. Khan skillfully infiltrates the candidates, exposing the crew’s training regimen, which includes a mock raid. However, critical details about the actual raid remain elusive. Determined, Khan and Ranveer confront Sharma, who reluctantly divulges their robbery plans under duress.
On the day of the heist, Khan orchestrates a clever switch at the jewelry store, replacing valuables with fakes while monitoring the crew’s movements. Ajay instructs the recruits to remain at their designated meeting point, but Sharma cunningly diverts the bus to meet with Ranveer instead, betraying trust within their ranks.
As the plot unfolds, a raid is executed on the workshop where Ajay meets Priya at the airport afterward, leaving tension in the air. Realizing they have been outwitted, Khan laughs as he deduces that Ranveer was never a legitimate officer but part of the ruse all along. As the film culminates, Khan receives a cryptic money order from Ajay, signifying a playful acknowledgment of the cleverly executed con. In the closing scenes, we see Ajay and P.K. Sharma reveling in a cricket match in Sharjah alongside their families, celebrating their triumph.
Follow the complete movie timeline of Special 26 (2013) with every major event in chronological order. Great for understanding complex plots and story progression.
CBI Interview Commences
The film kicks off on March 18, 1987, with a CBI interview led by two main characters. This sets the stage for the unfolding events as the narrative shifts to flashbacks revealing prior incidents.
Raiding the Minister's Residence
Ajay Singh contacts a local police station to request support for a CBI raid. Joined by his accomplices, they successfully infiltrate a minister's home, posing as authorized CBI officers.
Imposters Return to Normal Life
After the raid, Ajay and his team return to their hometowns, seamlessly blending back into their everyday lives. Here, Ajay's romantic involvement with Priya, a teacher engaged to another man, comes to light.
Wedding in Chandigarh
The group reunites in Chandigarh for P.K. Sharma's daughter's wedding. This gathering rekindles old friendships among Ajay, Sharma, and their comrades, showcasing the camaraderie forged in their unusual ventures.
Ranveer's Suspension
In the wake of the raid, Ranveer Singh and his superior are reprimanded by the minister, leading to their suspension for negligence. This event serves as a pivotal point in the pursuit of justice within the CBI.
Life of CBI Officer Waseem Khan
CBI officer Waseem Khan is shown leading a domestic life in New Delhi. After capturing a criminal named Gupta, he becomes aware of his own challenges in dealing with the chaos surrounding Ajay's con.
Ranveer and Khan Join Forces
Disheartened by his suspension, Ranveer encounters Waseem Khan. Together, they decide to collaborate, focusing on capturing Ajay and his group of imposters, indicating a unification of the story’s opposing sides.
The Kolkata Raid
In Kolkata, Ajay orchestrates another raid under the guise of Income Tax officials. This operation highlights their growing boldness and adaptability in turning the tables on authorities while evading detection.
Plans for High-Stakes Heist in Mumbai
Ajay and Sharma, emboldened by their success, plot for an ambitious robbery in Mumbai. The stakes rise significantly as they aim to strike at a jewelry store, marking the climax of their criminal activities.
Ajay and Priya's Relationship
As preparations for the heist intensify, Ajay's relationship with Priya is further explored. She wishes to accompany him on his endeavors, yet he suggests a meeting at the airport which adds romantic tension to the narrative.
Khan's Investigation Deepens
Meanwhile, Ranveer uncovers Sharma's suspicious background, carefully wiretapping his phone for information. This strategic move brings Khan closer to tracking down the crew's latest operations.
Infiltration and Training
Ajay cleverly posts a job advertisement, seeking '50 dynamic graduates' to cover their heist preparations. Khan's tactical infiltration reveals their training regimen, but crucial details about the raid remain hidden.
The Day of the Jewelry Store Heist
On the day of the planned heist, Khan implements a deception at the jewelry store. He manages to substitute real valuables with replicas enabling him to keep a close watch on the crew's execution of the plan.
Betrayal within the Ranks
Sharma's betrayal becomes evident as he manipulates the bus driver to divert from the agreed meeting point. This internal conflict introduces an unexpected twist, testing loyalties among the members of the crew.
Final Confrontation and Celebration
Following a tense culmination of events, Ajay manages to leave a cryptic money order for Khan, symbolizing their playful rivalry. The film wraps up with Ajay and Sharma enjoying a cricket match in Sharjah, celebrating their escapades.
Explore all characters from Special 26 (2013). Get detailed profiles with their roles, arcs, and key relationships explained.
Ajay Singh (Akshay Kumar)
Ajay is a clever and charismatic conman who uses his wit to pull off elaborate heists while posing as a CBI officer. His charm and intelligence help him navigate dangerous situations, yet his actions often blur ethical lines. Despite his criminality, his romantic entanglements add depth to his character, revealing a softer side focused on love and companionship.
P.K. Sharma (Anupam Kher)
P.K. Sharma is Ajay's loyal accomplice and confidant, who shares in the risks and challenges of their criminal endeavors. His experience and knowledge of scams make him an invaluable partner in crime. Throughout the movie, his relationship with Ajay deepens, showcasing themes of friendship and loyalty amidst their questionable profession.
Ranveer Singh (Jimmy Shergill)
Ranveer is a determined and somewhat naive CBI officer, initially driven by the pursuit of justice. His character represents the challenges faced in law enforcement, as he grapples with the fallout of the raids. As the narrative unfolds, his character arc reflects the complexities of trust and betrayal in the world of crime enforcement.
Waseem Khan (Manoj Bajpayee)
Waseem Khan is a sharp and resourceful CBI officer who contrasts with Ranveer's character. He often showcases a pragmatic approach to law enforcement, employing strategic methods to catch criminals. His domestic life is portrayed as a stark contrast to the thrilling world of his job, illustrating the balancing act between personal and professional realms.
Learn where and when Special 26 (2013) takes place. Explore the film’s settings, era, and how they shape the narrative.
Time period
1987
Set in 1987, this time period reflects a significant era in India marked by economic changes and increasing awareness of government corruption. The film's events tie into real historical contexts, highlighting the challenges faced in the law enforcement domain during that time. The socio-political atmosphere of the late 1980s shaped the actions and choices of the characters.
Location
Chandigarh, New Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Sharjah
The movie travels through various cities in India, including Chandigarh, known for its modern architecture and urban planning. New Delhi serves as the political heart of India, emphasizing its significance in the narrative. Kolkata, famous for its rich history and cultural heritage, plays a crucial role in one of the heists. Mumbai stands out as the bustling financial capital where the film's climax unfolds, while Sharjah represents a moment of leisure amidst the tension.
Discover the main themes in Special 26 (2013). Analyze the deeper meanings, emotional layers, and social commentary behind the film.
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Deception
Deception is a central theme in the film, as the characters operate under false identities to execute their plans. The intricate layers of deception create tension and suspense, exploring the moral complexities of their actions. The façade maintained by the protagonists raises questions about integrity and ambition.
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Love
The theme of love plays a notable role through Ajay's relationship with Priya, showcasing the personal stakes involved as they navigate their respective lives. Their bond grounds the film's tension with emotional depth, illustrating how personal relationships can become entwined with the complexities of crime. Ultimately, love serves as both a motivator and a source of conflict in their journey.
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Justice
The quest for justice runs parallel to the protagonists' criminal escapades, as CBI officer Khan seeks to outsmart Ajay and bring him to justice. This theme highlights the contrasting views of legality and morality, questioning the true nature of justice in a corrupt society. The film challenges the audience to consider the thin line between right and wrong.
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