The first season of TVF’s hit social comedy, “Panchayat” released in 2020, and it took the internet by storm. With its simple yet relatable storyline, the show managed to win the hearts of viewers from across the country. Created by TVF, the pioneer of web series in India, “Panchayat” is a breath of fresh air in the Indian web series space.
Set in a small village in Uttar Pradesh, the show follows the story of Abhishek Tripathi, a young engineering graduate who has to take up a job as a Panchayat Secretary due to the lack of better options. The show beautifully captures the struggles of a city-bred boy trying to adjust to the slow-paced village life. What makes the show stand out is its ability to seamlessly blend humor with social commentary. The show sheds light on the stark contrast between urban and rural India, and how people from different backgrounds coexist.
What sets “Panchayat” apart from other comedies is its simplicity. The show doesn’t rely on over-the-top humor or slapstick comedy, but instead, it relies on the everyday situations and struggles of its characters to make the audience laugh. The dialogues are witty and relatable, and the characters are well-etched, making them instantly likable. Jitendra Kumar, who plays the lead role of Abhishek, delivers a stellar performance and is well-supported by a talented ensemble cast.
The show’s writing is its biggest strength. Created by Chandan Kumar and directed by Deepak Kumar Mishra, the show is a perfect blend of humor, drama, and social commentary. It brilliantly captures the nuances of rural India, from the obsession with government jobs to the importance of caste in society. The show also tackles relevant issues like the lack of basic amenities and the challenges faced by women in rural areas. However, the show manages to address these issues without being preachy, making it an enjoyable watch.
One of the most refreshing aspects of “Panchayat” is its female characters. Unlike most Indian shows, where women are often relegated to the background, “Panchayat” gives equal importance to its female characters. Neena Gupta, who plays the role of Manju Devi, the village Pradhan, is a force to be reckoned with. Her strong and independent character is a refreshing change from the stereotypical portrayal of women in Indian shows. The other female characters, including Raghuvir Yadav’s character’s wife and Abhishek’s colleague, are also given well-defined roles, making the show more inclusive and progressive.
Apart from its stellar writing and performances, “Panchayat” also stands out for its production value. The show beautifully captures the rustic charm of rural India, and the village setting feels authentic. The background score and music add to the show’s charm, and the catchy title track has become a fan favorite.
The show’s success can also be attributed to the fact that it released during the nationwide lockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic. With most people stuck at home, “Panchayat” provided much-needed entertainment and became a topic of discussion on social media platforms. The show’s popularity also led to memes and inside jokes, making it a cultural phenomenon.
To sum it up, the first season of “Panchayat” is a perfect blend of humor, drama, and social commentary. With its relatable characters, witty dialogues, and brilliant performances, the show manages to strike a chord with viewers of all ages. It’s a must-watch for anyone looking for a light-hearted yet impactful show. The success of “Panchayat” has set high expectations for its second season, and we can’t wait to see what TVF has in store for us.
