Dabba Cartel, the highly anticipated web series starring veteran actress Shabana Azmi, debuted on Netflix on February 28, 2025, captivating audiences with its intriguing storyline and powerful performances. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Mumbai, this crime thriller follows the lives of five middle-class women who unexpectedly find themselves at the heart of the illicit drug trade through their tiffin service.
The series, directed by Hitesh Bhatia, features an impressive ensemble cast including actresses Jyotika, Shalini Pandey, Anjali Anand, and Nimisha Sajayan. It provides viewers with an engaging blend of drama and dark humor, showcasing the resilience and resourcefulness of its protagonists as they navigate their precarious circumstances. The series opens with the shocking realization of the consequences of their actions after the death of a patient leads to the exposure of their covert operations.
Shabana Azmi's portrayal of Sheila, one of the central characters, has received special acclaim. Critics and audiences have noted her impressive performance and the layered development of her character. Notably, Azmi’s character hints at connections to Mumbai’s infamous gangster Sultan Mirza, alluding to her character’s complicated past. Viewers are drawn not only to the present-day narrative but also to the rich history explored throughout the show, culminating from Azmi’s storied career.
Despite its early acclaim, the series has not escaped comparisons to another recent release, Saas, Bahu Aur Flamingo, starring Dimple Kapadia. Addressing these comparisons, Azmi shared her initial fears of being directly juxtaposed with the JioHotstar series. “Prior to watching the show, I was concerned we would be directly compared to the show. But when I watched it, it was really well-made, but quite different from ours,” she remarked. The comfort derived from her daughter-in-law Shibani Akhtar, who co-created Dabba Cartel, provided Azmi relief as she emphasized the distinct cultural and thematic focus of both series.
While both shows navigate themes related to female empowerment and involvement with crime, Azmi stressed how Dabba Cartel offers a more realistic portrayal of middle-class life. “They have a completely different setup, quite exotic,” she explained. “Our show is about these middle-class women. Hence, I really don’t think there is any comparison.” This emphasis on realism sets Dabba Cartel apart, as it dives deep not only to highlight the dangers of drug trafficking but also the multifaceted lives of these women who juggled their responsibilities as homemakers and entrepreneurs.
The response from viewers has been overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the series for its compelling writing and storytelling. One enthusiastic fan proclaimed, “It’s the show of the year! Compelling writing, storytelling, powerful cast, brilliant acting...” The performances, particularly from both Azmi and Jyotika, have been singled out for their depth and nuance, contributing significantly to the show's impact. Critics began drawing parallels between Dabba Cartel and acclaimed international crime dramas due to its gripping narrative and character development.
Audience engagement has been lively on social media platforms, with many commenting on the series' pacing and engaging plot twists. Some users likened it to the American crime thriller Ozark, noting the familial angles enhanced by fierce female leads. While some criticisms emerged over excessive cameos, the prevailing sentiment inclined toward appreciation for the storytelling and character arcs paved throughout the episodes. “#DabbaCartel is a must-watch! The best part? They didn’t drag the series unnecessarily, keeping it tight and engaging,” noted another viewer.
Simultaneously, the teaser for the potential sequel has already excited viewers, indicating the series’ creators have reassured fans of Sheila's enigmatic past and what lies next for these culpable women fighting the tides of crime and morality. Azmi’s character promises to evolve, allowing for expanded exploration of her life choices and their cascading effects on her family and peers.
With such compelling characters and masterful storytelling, Dabba Cartel has positioned itself not only as another hit for Netflix but as part of the broader narrative of women reclaiming agency within the entertainment space. The series’ tense moments coupled with its humor and dramatic turns challenge traditional portrayals of female leads, ensuring Dabba Cartel will resonate with audiences long after its conclusion. Indeed, with its potent blend of suspense and relatable dynamics, Dabba Cartel is set to become one of the breakout series of 2025, leaving viewers eagerly awaiting the next chapter of this gripping tale.