Khakee: The Bengal Chapter, Netflix’s latest crime drama, vividly depicts the dark and gritty world of early 2000s Kolkata, where the boundaries between crime, politics, and law enforcement are blurred. Created by Neeraj Pandey, the mastermind behind Special Ops and A Wednesday, the series aims to provide a compelling narrative based on real-life incidents. Unlike its predecessor, Khakee: The Bihar Chapter, which focused on the criminal landscape of Bihar, this series shifts its lens to West Bengal, particularly the deep-rooted nexus of gangsters and politicians that shaped the state’s law enforcement struggles.
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With a stellar cast led by Prosenjit Chatterjee, Saswata Chatterjee, and Jeet, the series sets out to depict a high-stakes battle between an influential gangster, a cunning politician, and a determined police officer. But does it succeed in delivering a gripping crime thriller? Let’s analyze.
Plot Overview
The story revolves around the notorious gangster Shankar Barua, also known as “Bagha,” played by Saswata Chatterjee. Bagha runs an empire of crime, controlling smuggling, extortion, and contract killings, with his influence extending deep into the political corridors. His rise is backed by the powerful politician Barun Roy (Prosenjit Chatterjee), who uses his criminal network to maintain his dominance in the state.
However, their unchecked power soon invites the attention of the law. The government appoints a righteous IPS officer, Arjun Maitra (Jeet), who is determined to bring down the crime syndicate. As the series unfolds, it delves into betrayals, moral dilemmas, and the harsh realities of crime-ridden politics.
Authenticity and Cultural Representation
One of the strongest aspects of Khakee: The Bengal Chapter is its authentic portrayal of West Bengal’s crime and political ecosystem. Unlike generic crime dramas that rely on stereotypes, this series takes a more nuanced approach, using real-life references and dialects to build an immersive experience.
The series successfully captures Kolkata’s early 2000s aesthetic, from its colonial-era buildings to its bustling markets. The cinematography pays special attention to the contrast between the city’s cultural vibrancy and its crime-ridden underbelly. The attention to detail in language, costumes, and mannerisms ensures that the show remains true to its Bengali roots.
Performance Highlights
Saswata Chatterjee as Shankar Barua (Bagha)
Saswata Chatterjee, best known for his portrayal of Bob Biswas in Kahaani, delivers an intense and layered performance. His portrayal of Bagha is terrifying yet captivating, making him one of the most memorable crime lords in recent Indian web series.
Prosenjit Chatterjee as Barun Roy
Prosenjit Chatterjee seamlessly steps into the role of a cunning politician. His ability to shift between a charismatic leader and a ruthless manipulator adds significant depth to the character.
Jeet as IPS Arjun Maitra
Jeet, primarily known for his work in Bengali cinema, makes a strong impact as the no-nonsense police officer. His portrayal of Arjun Maitra showcases the struggles of law enforcement officers fighting against a system riddled with corruption.
Direction and Cinematic Execution
Director Debatma Mandal does an excellent job in bringing Neeraj Pandey’s vision to life. The action sequences are intense, and the chase scenes are well-executed, creating an adrenaline rush. The series’ gritty color palette enhances the feeling of tension and unease, effectively drawing viewers into its dark world.
The background score, composed to match the intensity of the crime drama, does a commendable job of enhancing the storytelling. However, some critics argue that the series occasionally struggles with pacing, slowing down in parts where the narrative could have been tighter.
Strengths of the Series
- Authentic Bengali Representation – Unlike many Bollywood-centric crime dramas, this show stays true to its regional setting.
- Strong Performances – Prosenjit and Saswata Chatterjee shine in their respective roles.
- Engaging Action Sequences – The series maintains high tension with its well-executed action scenes.
- Exploration of Socio-Political Themes – It effectively highlights the intertwined nature of crime and politics in Bengal.
Areas for Improvement
- Pacing Issues – The slow buildup in the initial episodes might deter some viewers.
- Predictable Storyline – While engaging, the plot follows familiar crime drama tropes.
- Underdeveloped Subplots – Certain side characters and storylines could have been explored in greater detail.
Critical Reception
The series has received mixed to positive reviews. While audiences have praised the performances and authenticity, critics have pointed out the pacing issues. Fans of the crime genre will likely find Khakee: The Bengal Chapter engaging, but casual viewers might struggle with its slow build-up.
Final Verdict
Overall, Khakee: The Bengal Chapter is a commendable addition to Netflix’s crime drama catalog. It provides a realistic look at the interplay of crime and politics in West Bengal while delivering high-octane performances. Despite some narrative flaws, it remains an intriguing watch for crime drama enthusiasts.
Rating: 3.5/5
Where to Watch?
The series is now streaming on Netflix.
By – Nikita
