Your ultimate guide to the standout web series of the year
NEW DELHI – As we say goodbye to the year, let’s shine a spotlight on the great online series that lit up our screens in 2023. With a captivating blend of thrilling suspense and heartwarming drama, the kingdom of OTT platforms has presented a variety of compelling stories. . Join us as we unveil four outstanding must-see web shows from 2023:
Taali: Bajaungi Nahi Bajwaungi on JioCinema
Taal, written by Kshitij Patwardhan, embarks on a noble journey and tells the compelling story of Srigauri Sawant, a trans woman who fights for equality and identity. The show, starring Sushmita Sen, subtly deals with the struggles of the transgender community. Although not entirely flawless, Taal tries to portray Srigaur as a human being, moving beyond the stereotypical narrative. Sen’s commendable performance is a cornerstone of the series, allowing the narrative to explore the nuances of identity and acceptance. The writing cleverly incorporates Sen’s Miss Universe legacy, making her transformational portrait a noteworthy aspect of the project.
Made in Heaven on Amazon Prime Video
“Made in Heaven” Season 2 continues the saga of wedding planners Tara and Karan who face personal and professional challenges. Struggling financially, the season explores the complexities of their lives, including Tara’s divorce and Karan’s personal crisis. The seven-episode show explores various wedding stories, touching on issues such as racism, Dalit equality, infidelity, polygamy and lesbian weddings. The creators masterfully manage these themes, creating discomfort at times, but keeping the narrative focused and engaging. The season, while lacking romance, successfully explores the meaning of “happily ever after.”
Kaalkoot on JioCinema
Kaalkoot, the much-awaited police procedural set in fictional Uttar Pradesh, deftly dissects the corroded social system. Balancing engagement with insightful research, she unravels the deep patriarchy of an acid attack case investigation. Created by Sumit Saxena and Arunabh Kumar, the series tackles a wide range of social issues, from revenge porn to homophobia, female infanticide and prejudice. Rich in subtext, it challenges perception and spares no one from scrutiny. Vijay Varma’s compelling portrayal of the conflicted cop Ravi Shankar Tripathi elevates the series, deftly exploring the complex intersections of personal and professional life, underscoring society’s judgment. The title, taken from Hindu mythology, aptly captures the narrative’s chilling exploration of societal depravity.
Dahaad on Amazon Prime Video
Dahaad, a Hindi police procedural crime thriller web series on Amazon Prime Video, follows Sub-Inspector Anjali Bhatt (Sonakshi Sinha) as she investigates the disappearance of 27 women in Rajasthan. Discovering a serial killer who targets vulnerable women, he navigates caste discrimination and societal norms. As Anjali discovers a pattern of cyanide poisoning, the gripping narrative explores inter-caste relations and social challenges. The series builds tension, reveals the identity of the killer – Anand Swarnakar – and Anjali’s courageous stand against prejudice. Dahaad stands out as the first Indian web series to premiere at the Berlin International Film Festival, garnering acclaim for its engaging stories.
The Night Manager on Amazon Prime Video
Former Indian Navy lieutenant Shaan Sengupta, now a hotel night manager, is thrown into a dangerous mission when Safina, seeking to escape her criminal husband and his associate Shelly, exposes them to an arms-dealing plot. Despite his efforts, Safina dies, which has been attributed to suicide. Two years later, Shaan meets Shelly at her new job. Along with a demoted RAW officer, Lipika, Shaan infiltrates Shelly’s syndicate. Secretly, he rescues Shelly’s son and reveals their plans. Shaan helps arrest Shelly, find closure in Safina’s death, and find justice for her killers. A must watch show hosted by Aditya Roy Kapur and Anil Kapoor.
Scam 2003 on Sony Liv
Fraud 2003: The Telgi Story, a Hindi biographical financial thriller on SonyLIV, tells the true story of Abdul Karim Telgi’s Stamp paper forgery in the early 2000s. Directed by Tusshar Hiranandan and co-directed by Hansal Mehta, the series takes its inspiration from Sanjay Singh’s book. Gagan Dev Riyar plays Telgi, supported by Mukesh Tiwari, Sana Amin Sheikh, Bharat Jadhav and Shaad Randhawa. The 10-episode series, the second in the Scam franchise after Scam 1992, premiered on SonyLIV. It unravels the complex Telgi scam, tracing the legal complexities and ramifications of one of India’s most notorious financial scandals.
Asur 2 – RISE OF DARK SIDE on JioCinema
“Asur Season 2” develops a fascinating narrative with expansive canvases and nuanced exploration of characters’ metaphorical and literal pain. The story now goes beyond the pursuit of a serial killer and into a master plan to unleash chaos on the nation. With a change in writing team, the series intertwines mythology, technology and noir elements, offering a compelling mix. The story depicts the myth of Kali Kalki, creating a complex narrative that immerses the audience in the challenges of the characters and deftly reveals the mysterious antagonist. “Asur 2” retains its mastery of introducing complexities that keep the audience in suspense. (IANS)
