Mirzapur
Mirzapur season 3 review: Pankaj Tripathi, Ali Fazal’s Prime Video series returns with more boredom, less ‘bhaukaal’
Introduction
Indian web series have seen a massive surge in popularity over the past few years, but few have left as indelible a mark as Mirzapur. Released on Amazon Prime Video in 2018, this crime thriller has redefined the genre with its gripping narrative, intense action, and unforgettable characters.
Set in the lawless hinterlands of Uttar Pradesh, Mirzapur is a brutal and unapologetic portrayal of power struggles, crime syndicates, and family feuds. The show has often been compared to international classics like Narcos and Peaky Blinders, thanks to its raw storytelling and unpredictable twists.
In this article, we will take an in-depth look at the Mirzapur series, exploring its storyline, characters, themes, impact, and why it has become one of India’s most talked-about shows.
The Storyline
At the heart of Mirzapur is Akhandanand Tripathi, also known as Kaleen Bhaiya (Pankaj Tripathi), a ruthless kingpin who rules over Mirzapur with an iron fist. He runs an empire dealing in illegal firearms and drugs, with his wayward son, Munna Tripathi (Divyendu Sharma), desperate to prove himself as his successor.
The story kicks off when two brothers, Guddu Pandit (Ali Fazal) and Bablu Pandit (Vikrant Massey), cross paths with Kaleen Bhaiya. Initially, they work under his command, but their rise in the ranks sets off a chain of violence, betrayal, and bloodshed. Munna’s insecurities and volatile nature make him a ticking time bomb, leading to explosive confrontations.
The series showcases the descent of the Pandit brothers into the world of crime, their personal vendettas, and the far-reaching consequences of their actions. As different factions battle for control, the power dynamics keep shifting, leading to a thrilling narrative that keeps audiences on edge.
Key Characters & Performances
1. Akhandanand Tripathi aka Kaleen Bhaiya (Pankaj Tripathi)
Pankaj Tripathi delivers a masterclass in acting as the calm yet ruthless crime lord. His composed demeanor contrasts with the brutal decisions he makes, making him one of the most memorable antagonists in Indian web series history.
2. Munna Tripathi (Divyendu Sharma)
Munna is the epitome of arrogance, rage, and entitlement. Divyendu Sharma portrays him with a mix of recklessness and vulnerability, making him a character you both hate and sympathize with.
3. Guddu Pandit (Ali Fazal)
Guddu’s transformation from a gym-loving simpleton to a hardened criminal is one of the most compelling arcs in the series. Ali Fazal brings an emotional depth to the character that makes his journey both tragic and powerful.
4. Bablu Pandit (Vikrant Massey)
The more rational and strategic of the two brothers, Bablu’s character brings a balance to Guddu’s impulsiveness. Vikrant Massey delivers a stellar performance, making his presence felt despite the high-octane action around him.
5. Beena Tripathi (Rasika Dugal)
Kaleen Bhaiya’s wife, Beena, is one of the most intriguing characters in Mirzapur. She is cunning, ambitious, and willing to manipulate situations to ensure her own survival. Rasika Dugal’s nuanced performance adds layers to the narrative.
6. Golu Gupta (Shweta Tripathi)
Initially a bookish and introverted character, Golu’s evolution into a bold and vengeful force in Season 2 is one of the series’ most unexpected yet satisfying developments.
Themes & Symbolism
1. Power and Corruption
Mirzapur portrays how power can corrupt even the most ordinary people. The quest for dominance drives every character, and once they get a taste of power, they become willing to do anything to keep it.
2. Revenge and Betrayal
The series is fueled by vendettas, with characters constantly scheming against each other. Friendships, alliances, and even family bonds are shattered in the pursuit of revenge.
3. Lawlessness and Morality
The show highlights the blurred lines between right and wrong. While some characters start off with moral compasses, circumstances push them into a world where survival means abandoning ethics.
4. Gender Dynamics
Women in Mirzapur are not just background characters; they are instrumental in shaping the plot. Beena, Golu, and Dimpy (Harshita Gaur) challenge the patriarchal world around them, proving that they are just as ruthless and strategic as the men.
Cinematic Brilliance
1. Direction and Writing
Created by Karan Anshuman and Puneet Krishna, Mirzapur is a masterstroke in storytelling. The dialogues are raw and impactful, often becoming viral memes among fans.
2. Visuals and Cinematography
The dusty landscapes of Uttar Pradesh add authenticity to the series. The dark, rustic visuals enhance the show’s gritty tone.
3. Action and Violence
Brutality is a defining feature of Mirzapur. The series does not shy away from showing the raw, unfiltered nature of gang wars, making every action sequence nerve-wracking.
Audience Reception & Cultural Impact
Upon its release, Mirzapur became a cultural phenomenon. Its gripping storyline and unforgettable characters gained a massive fanbase, with viewers eagerly awaiting each new season.
The series also sparked debates on the portrayal of violence in Indian entertainment. Some critics argued that it glorifies crime, while others praised it for its realistic depiction of India’s underworld.
Beyond India, Mirzapur has found audiences in international markets, proving that regional stories with universal themes can captivate global viewers.
Mirzapur Season 2 & The Future
The second season, released in 2020, continued the saga with new players entering the game and shifting power dynamics. Guddu’s thirst for vengeance, Beena’s calculated moves, and Golu’s transformation added fresh layers to the narrative.
With Season 3 officially announced, fans are eagerly anticipating the next chapter in this thrilling saga. The stakes are higher than ever, and the battle for Mirzapur is far from over.
Why You Should Watch It
- If you love gritty crime dramas, Mirzapur is a must-watch.
- The dialogues and performances are top-notch, keeping you hooked.
- It offers a realistic portrayal of the Indian crime world.
- The show’s plot twists and unpredictable storytelling make it highly binge-worthy.
- The character development is layered and deeply engaging.
Final Verdict
Mirzapur is not just a web series; it’s an experience. It takes viewers into the heart of India’s criminal underbelly, exploring power, revenge, and ambition with a raw and unapologetic approach.
While it may not be for the faint-hearted due to its violence and intense themes, those who appreciate well-crafted storytelling will find it immensely rewarding.
With its gripping narrative, unforgettable characters, and shocking twists, Mirzapur stands tall as one of India’s best crime thrillers. If you haven’t watched it yet, brace yourself for an adrenaline-fueled ride into the dark world of Mirzapur!