The Netflix series 'Dabba Cartel' has been making waves since its premiere on February 28, 2025. This crime drama, directed by Hitesh Bhatia and featuring acclaimed actresses like Shabana Azmi, Jyothika, and Nimisha Sajayan, transcends the genre by offering nuanced character depictions against the backdrop of Mumbai's vibrant yet gritty atmosphere.
The series centers around five diverse women who, for different reasons, find themselves entangled within the operations of a drug cartel. At the forefront is Raji, played by Shalini Pandey, who turns her humble tiffin service, run alongside her maid Mala (Nimisha Sajayan), unknowingly, or perhaps reluctantly, to help distribute drugs, reflective of her desperation to provide for her daughter’s education amid societal pressures.
Add to this mix Shahida (Anjali Anand), the local broker, and Varuna (Jyothika), who struggles to maintain her identity and marriage to the pharmaceutical executive Shankar Dasgupta (Jisshu Sengupta). Shabana Azmi portrays Baa, the matriarch with dark secrets, effectively weaving the complex social and familial dynamics throughout the narrative. The show's compelling hook lies not just within its crime elements but also within its exploration of survival, power, and the societal roles assigned to women, particularly homemakers who are often seen as invisible.
The pain of disconnection and the frustration of suppression among these characters are palpable, culminating in powerful confrontations—especially one notable scene between Varuna and Shankar which serves as both a narrative pivot and emotional climax. Dabba Cartel emphasizes how the quiet subversion of traditional roles can lead to unexpected empowerment.
While the characters resonate and reflect real societal issues, certain narratives appear undercooked. The character of Chavan is introduced with great significance but recedes too quickly, lacking follow-through. Also, the LGBTQ+ subplot concerning Shahida and Preeti (Sai Tamhankar) felt somewhat tacked on, with less organic development than the primary arcs.
The criminal undertones are contrasted with the lives of these women, showcasing periods of tension and humor. A scene featuring elements reminiscent of the classic Bombay crime films—punctuated by nostalgic music—pulls the viewer through the chaotic dynamics of Mumbai and the secrets of the pharmaceutical world, underpinning the series with quintessential Bollywood flair.
Shabana Azmi, known for her cinematic legacy, brings gravitas to the role of Sheila with her seasoned performance complemented by strong performances from the female ensemble cast. According to critics, Nimisha Sajayan's fiery interpretation of displacement within the confines of societal expectations is especially poignant, whereas Jyothika effectively showcases the struggle between domesticity and individuality.
Gajraj Rao's portrayal of the Narcotics officer hunting for the truth adds another layer of intrigue to the storyline, weaving the police procedural aspects through the chaotic lives of these women. The tension between the police and the cartel culminates elegantly, reminiscent of many classic crime dramas.
Dabba Cartel’s creators have received both praise and critique, undergoing comparisons to established hits like 'Breaking Bad' and 'Saas, Bahu Aur Flamingo.' Discussions circulate on platforms addressing how closely the various narratives resonate with audiences, offering insight and engaging dialogue over the show’s themes.
Critics have praised the production values—Eeshit Narian’s cinematography effectively captures the essence of the middle-class Mumbai scene, transitioning from subdued domesticity to frantic crime escapades with finesse. Meanwhile, the musical score composed by Gaurav Raina and Tarana Marwah complements the series’s tone, lending vibrancy to its dark themes.
On the promotional front, co-creator Shibani Akhtar has hinted at the uniqueness of their narrative vision apart from similar titles, aiming for realism over shock value. Shabana Azmi echoed these sentiments, reflecting on audience perceptions and affirming the distinct character of 'Dabba Cartel.' She noted, "I was concerned we would be directly compared to the show. But Shibani was confident it wouldn't happen, and after watching, I see the show as remarkably different."
Discussion surrounding the series also extends to the unfiltered experiences of its cast. Jyothika, during interviews promoting the show, candidly spoke about the demeaning aspects of her industry. She stated, "It’s hard to swallow when you’re categorized as just standing beside big male stars after proving your talent for years." This commentary is significant, illustrated by the series which positions women as complex characters rather than background players.
Overall, 'Dabba Cartel' intriguingly blends crime, complexity, and character study, exploring how ordinary women navigate extraordinary circumstances. While some narrative threads might feel lacking, the performance and thematic richness make it worth engaging with—the show's heart lies within its portrayal of resilience. For anyone seeking substantive drama interspersed with sociopolitical commentary, 'Dabba Cartel' is poised as both entertaining and enlightening.