Netflix's 'Dabba Cartel' features Shabana Azmi and Shalini Pandey as a mother-in-law and daughter-in-law duo who navigate from the kitchen to the criminal underworld. Read the review before watching!
Review
Title: Dabba Cartel
Rating: ⭐⭐☆ (2.5/5)
Cast: Shabana Azmi, Nimisha Sajayan, Shalini Pandey, Jishu Sengupta, Gajraj Rao, Sai Tamhankar, Bhupendra Jadab, Sushmita Mukhopadhyay, Lillete Dubey
Director: Hitesh Bhatia
Producer: N/A
Writer: N/A
Release Date: February 28, 2025
Platform: Netflix
Language: Hindi
Budget: N/A
What is the story of 'Dabba Cartel'?
'Dabba Cartel' is a thrilling web series centered around the drug mafia. It highlights women's foray into the criminal world. While drug trafficking is typically associated with men, this series showcases the struggles and compulsions faced by women in such circumstances. The story follows Raji (Shalini Pandey), who starts a cooking business to fulfill her dream of sending her husband abroad. Mala (Nimisha Sajayan), her domestic help, assists her. However, a significant turning point arrives when Raji's lover, Santosh, forces her into drug trafficking.
Raji gradually becomes entangled in this illicit business. When her mother-in-law, Sheila (Shabana Azmi), discovers the truth, she too joins the game. Sheila, with her experience and cunning, plays a crucial role in this drug mafia operation.
Interesting Characters and Their Roles
The story incorporates many new characters, adding to its thrill.
Shabana Azmi (Sheila): A shrewd and experienced woman who establishes her identity in the drug world.
Shalini Pandey (Raji): A housewife who enters the criminal world due to familial needs.
Nimisha Sajayan (Mala): A courageous domestic help who remains by Raji's side.
Jishu Sengupta: The head of the formidable pharmaceutical company 'Vivaif'.
Gajraj Rao: A shrewd investigating officer.
Sai Tamhankar: A courageous police officer.
Bhupendra Jadab: An officer dreaming of a transfer abroad.
Sushmita Mukhopadhyay: A shrewd neighbor who keeps an eye on everything.
Lillete Dubey: An influential woman from South Bombay.
Series Twists and Turns
The situation becomes more complex when Sheila (Shabana Azmi) re-enters the business. This mother-in-law and daughter-in-law duo fight not only for profit but also for survival.
As the story progresses, viewers witness numerous twists and turns.
A police officer begins investigating the operation.
Veteran members of the drug mafia conspire against Raji and Mala.
Sheila attempts to control the situation using her cunning.
Acting and Direction
Exceptional Acting:
Shabana Azmi's brilliant performance breathes life into the entire story. Her acting is exceptional and impactful.
Shalini Pandey delivers an outstanding performance as Raji, beautifully portraying her constraints.
Nimisha Sajayan exceptionally portrays the character of the domestic help.
Gajraj Rao and Sai Tamhankar also fit perfectly into their respective roles.
Direction:
Hitesh Bhatia attempts to present a unique and distinct story. While the pacing might feel slightly slow in certain parts, the overall direction is satisfactory.
Should you watch this series?
If you enjoy crime, drug mafia, and thrilling narratives, this series might appeal to you. However, if you expect a fast-paced crime thriller, the pacing might feel slow at times.
Rating: ⭐⭐☆ (2.5/5)
✅ Positives: Exceptional acting, intriguing plot, female-centric story.
❌ Negatives: Slightly slow pacing in parts, some pacing inconsistencies.
Final Verdict: If you are a fan of crime dramas, you can give it a watch. However, it's not among the best crime thrillers available.
