From Yamunapaar to Brahmaputrapaar !!

From Yamunapaar to Brahmaputrapaar : My quick take on web series “PataalLok S02” (Amazon prime)

What happens when a gritty crime drama trades the grime of Delhi’s ghettos for the lush, untouched paradise of Nagaland? Well, for one, the air gets cleaner, and so does the storytelling. The series dials down the grotesque darkness of its prequel and gifts us a murder mystery wrapped in socio-political intrigue and served against a backdrop so stunning, it deserves a separate IMDb credit. Nagaland isn’t just a setting—it’s a full-blown character, God’s own garden, if you will. Kerala might want to check its title deeds.

But let’s talk about the man of the hour: Jaideep Ahlawat. If Gabbar Singh and Mogambo made villainy iconic, Ahlawat’s Hathiram Choudhary has made middle-aged, overweight cops positively heroic. Watching him evolve (read: age) into his oversized uniform is like watching fine wine age in a…larger-than-average barrel. His performance isn’t just a reason to watch the series; it’s practically a sin not to. This is Hathiram’s “hell” of a show, and we’re all just living in it.

A special shoutout to the casting team for breaking Bollywood’s “one token Northeastern actor” tradition. Who knew there was a whole reservoir of talent beyond the Brahmaputra? The actors from the region fit their roles like Nagaland fits its postcard image: effortlessly. Yes, industry, there’s life beyond Danny Denzongpa (no offense, Danny sir).

Oh, and what a pleasant surprise to see Nagesh Kukunoor trading his director’s hat for a dab of grease paint! His unexpected on-screen presence is a delightful addition, proving that even behind-the-scenes maestros can occasionally steal the spotlight. Who knew the man who gave us cinematic gems could also act with equal finesse?

The series is sprinkled with twists and turns like coriander on a plate of chaat—necessary and satisfying. The writer deserves applause for crafting a binge-worthy thriller that hooks you with its plot and lures you to Google “cheap flights to Nagaland.” Special mention to Abhishek Banerjee, who, in his new avatar as a writer, has traded his iconic hathoda for a kalam to pen two episodes of the series. Who knew the man who once sent chills down our spines could now grip us with his words? His versatility continues to amaze.

Lastly, let’s not overlook the former Miss India, who steps into her role sans greasepaint. Her raw performance shows that beauty doesn’t need a touch-up, and neither does talent. Together, this stellar cast and brilliant writing deliver a series that’s as much about solving a murder as it is about discovering a state that’s been hiding in plain sight.

Verdict? Watch it for the murder mystery. Watch it for the socio-political insights. But most of all, watch it for Hathiram Choudhary, Nagesh Kukunoor’s surprise cameo, Abhishek Banerjee’s kalam magic, Nagaland’s lush greens, and a chance to step beyond Bollywood’s usual tropes. And if this doesn’t convince you to visit Nagaland, nothing will.