The recently released crime drama Dabba Cartel offers a gripping exploration of how ordinary lives get entangled in extraordinary crimes. Directed by Hitesh Bhatia, the series blends elements of the drug trade with the murky underbelly of the pharmaceutical industry, making for a thrilling binge-watch.

Plot Overview

The narrative revolves around Raji (Shalini Pandey), a middle-class housewife running a tiffin service in Thane alongside her domestic help, Mala (Nimisha Sajayan). What starts as a discreet herbal Viagra distribution quickly escalates into selling marijuana and MDMA, driven by their desire for financial freedom. Watching from the sidelines is Ba (Shabana Azmi), Raji’s mother-in-law with a criminal past, who eventually gets pulled into the operation. The growing cartel also ropes in Shahida (Anjali Anand) and Varuna (Jyothika), adding more complexity to their illicit business.

Parallelly, the series unravels the corruption within the pharma industry. VivaLife, one of five Indian companies licensed to produce opioids for export, becomes the subject of investigation by Ajit Pathak (Gajraj Rao), a government officer. With the help of rookie cop Preeti (Sai Tamhankar), Ajit begins to uncover the illegal distribution of Modella, an opioid at the heart of the scandal.

Performances

The show’s strength lies in its stellar cast. Shabana Azmi delivers a powerful performance, exuding both menace and vulnerability. Shalini Pandey shines as the ambitious Raji, while Jyothika brings quiet resilience to Varuna. Nimisha Sajayan’s portrayal of Mala adds emotional depth, and Gajraj Rao’s understated performance as the diligent officer lends authenticity to the investigation plot.

Direction & Cinematography

Director Hitesh Bhatia expertly juggles multiple storylines without losing momentum. The cinematography by Eeshit Narain captures the chaotic beauty of Thane, with its crowded housing societies and perpetual rains, adding to the gritty atmosphere of the series.

What Works

Compelling female-led narrative
Strong performances from the ensemble cast
Seamless interweaving of crime and pharma industry corruption
Well-developed characters with emotional arcs

What Doesn’t

Some plot twists stretch plausibility
A few subplots feel underexplored

Verdict

Dabba Cartel is a captivating crime drama that shines a spotlight on the dark nexus between the drug trade and the pharmaceutical industry. With its strong performances and intricate storytelling, the series keeps viewers hooked till the very end. While not without its flaws, the show’s female-led narrative and socially relevant themes make it a must-watch.