After a two-year wait, the third season of Panchayat finally graces our screens, delivering a mixed bag of surprises, amusement, and occasional faltering moments. This installment delves into the intricate politics of rural India and the bureaucracy, led by an exceptional cast including Jitendra Kumar, Neena Gupta, and Raghubir Yadav. While the season presents a few loose ends, it offers a rich tapestry of emotions and storytelling.
Plot and Themes
The season begins with the transfer of Sachiv Ji and quickly reestablishes the familiar setting of Phulera. The narrative explores themes of grief, community support, and unity. The political landscape of the village, intertwined with grassroots corruption, forms the crux of the plot, resonating with the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. Despite its political undertones, the show retains its simple storytelling charm.
Music and Atmosphere
Anurag Saikia’s music significantly enhances the viewing experience, perfectly mirroring the storyline’s mood. The transition from instrumental to rock in the title track and the emotionally charged background score breathe life into Phulera. Memorable sound moments, like the whistle when Sachiv Ji and Rinki share a moment, add depth to the narrative.
Character Development and Performances
Director Deepak Kumar Mishra adopts a fresh approach, spotlighting the supporting cast to drive the story while the lead characters play more supportive roles. This strategy pays off, making every character feel like a hero in their unique way.
Durgesh Kumar as Bhushan Sharma: Bhushan’s character arc is particularly compelling this season, posing a significant threat to the protagonists and showcasing his full potential.
•Supporting Cast: Performers like Sunita Rajwar, Pankaj Jha, Ashok Pathak, and Bulloo Kumar shine in their roles, proving that no role is too small.
•New and Returning Faces: The return of Ganesh (Aasif Sheikh) brings nostalgia, while new character Bam Bahadur strengthens the story.
The lead cast, including Jitendra Kumar, Raghubir Yadav, Neena Gupta, Chandan Roy, and Sanvikaa, continue to be dependable and endearing. However, they are somewhat underutilized due to their characters’ journeys this season.
Narrative and Writing
While the narrative structure innovatively brings the supporting cast to the forefront, the writing occasionally shows signs of fatigue. Some plot points, such as Neena Gupta’s character potentially outsmarting her husband in politics, feel underdeveloped. Additionally, certain elements, like the reason behind a character joining a strike, are left unexplained, creating a sense of disjointedness.
One of the season’s highlights is the portrayal of Prahlad (Faisal Malik) coping with his son’s death. The makers sensitively address his grief, showcasing his journey from despair to rediscovering joy. Faisal Malik’s performance is both heart-wrenching and heartwarming.
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