Netflix’s latest crime thriller, Dabba Cartel, premiered on February 28. It brings together an intriguing mix of middle-class aspirations, the lunchbox business, and the perilous world of drug cartels. Helmed by veteran actor Shabana Azmi, the series dives deep into a narrative of survival, friendship, and crime, offering a fresh take on the genre.
A Unique Premise with Strong Execution
The show follows five middle-class women who run a simple dabba (lunchbox) service, only to find themselves entangled in the murky underbelly of the drug trade. Unlike the often-glamorized portrayals of cartels, Dabba Cartel keeps things grounded in realism, focusing on the women’s struggles, choices, and resilience. The storytelling maintains a gripping pace, ensuring there’s never a dull moment.
Shabana Azmi’s Commanding Performance
Leading the ensemble cast, Shabana Azmi delivers a powerful performance, seamlessly blending vulnerability with strength. Her portrayal of a woman navigating the dangerous shift from a homemaker to a cartel operator is layered and compelling. She is joined by a talented lineup, including Jyotika, Shalini Pandey, Anjali Anand, and Nimisha Sajayan, each bringing authenticity to their roles.
How It Stands Apart from Saas, Bahu Aur Flamingo
Given the similarities in themes, comparisons with Dimple Kapadia’s Saas, Bahu Aur Flamingo were inevitable. However, Azmi herself has clarified that the two series are vastly different. While Saas, Bahu Aur Flamingo leans into an exotic and stylized portrayal of a women-led cartel, Dabba Cartel stays rooted in realism. The characters’ everyday struggles and their evolution into powerful figures feel organic rather than dramatic.
Direction and Screenplay
Produced under Farhan Akhtar’s Excel Entertainment, the series benefits from tight direction and a well-structured screenplay. Shibani Akhtar, Vishnu Menon, Gaurav Kapur, and Akanksha Seda have crafted a world that feels both familiar and suspenseful. The writing, spearheaded by Bhavna Kher and Vishnu Menon, keeps viewers hooked with twists that unfold naturally rather than feeling forced.
Verdict: A Must-Watch Thriller
Dabba Cartel stands out as a gripping crime drama that offers something different from the usual cartel narratives. With stellar performances, a well-paced script, and a grounded approach, it’s a show that deserves attention. Whether you’re a fan of crime thrillers or looking for a fresh, female-led story, this Netflix offering is worth a watch.
