‘Hunkkaar’ series review: Aneet Padda brings grace to an affective social-drama

Hunkkaar arrives with an air of dignity in these increasingly desensitised times. Even though there is an idea of loudness presupposed in its title that hints towards a tacky, overdramatic social drama, the meticulously probing nature of the series proves to be an instant antithesis. Here, the roar encapsulates the mind-numbing euphoria created by unruly godmen, who make violent mobs out of their hapless believers, ready to burn the world down on one order. There are stirring parallels to contemporary socio-politics as the show deconstructs the frenzy behind the rapid erosion of empathy by questioning the status quo with the flame of justice. It understands that the tenets of reactionism cannot be defeated by the shallowness of anger, answering the intensity of the roar with the gentleness of reason.

A glimpse of its tender handling is seen early on in the first episode, where Meenu (Aneet Padda), visits a police station in Madhya Pradesh with her parents to register a complaint of rape against a revered godman, Baapji (Raghubir Yadav). The police officer hesitates at first but complies after learning that Meenu is a minor. A novice cop, ACP Jasleen Singh (Fatima Sana Shaikh) is attached to the case as the investigating officer. The camera often looks into Meenu’s eyes as she gives her account of the incident to Jasleen. The makers also underline the indifference that greets an abuse survivor. As she records her statement, Meenu is forced to relive the horrifying details repeatedly as her father leaves midway while her mother tears up.

Even when Meenu is made to go through medical tests, the doctor’s indifference is palpable. There is a stone-cold detachment to the proceedings, harking back to the brilliant first season of Delhi Crime. Hunkkaar, however, treads a different path, seeming to be aware of what has come before.

It shifts focus and perspectives to a different set of characters and their back stories. Each segment reveals the fractures at the heart of Indian society, whether it is giving a glimpse into the pressures in the newsroom of principled journalist Amitabh Sinha (Arjun Mathur) or the way in which Meenu is blamed and shamed by followers of Baapji after her identity is revealed.

Apart from portraying the disturbing ordeal that survivors face after the crime in a flailing system, Hunkkaar also questions the blind faith that creates monsters like Baapji. Ravinder Randhawa’s sharply written monologues underlines the recurring nature of injustice. Amitabh’s post-climactic exchange acts as a call against surrendering to the charisma of religious figures. Screenwriters Karan Kapadia and Sourabh Ratnu eschew sensationalism for finesse in the courtroom sequences.

Fatima Sana Shaikh in ‘Hunkkaar’
| Photo Credit:
JioHotstar

With so many things to tackle, the show does lose its way in the middle as it focuses far too much on the details of the investigation, which runs rather conveniently. Newer characters are suddenly introduced without much stake in the story, like the boy Meenu befriends in her new school. Or Baapji’s vile son, who creates newer problems to weaken his father’s case. These portions feel underdeveloped and go against the otherwise nuanced handling of the series. The pace flags as the observations while pertinent do not blend well with the narrative.

The series remains compelling when it focuses on Meenu’s experience and follows the case in the courtroom. Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub shows impeccable sincerity in these scenes as the simple lawyer. Meanwhile, Aneet instils ample dignity and strength to her performance, letting her vulnerabilities guide the tonal shifts. Her poise is reflected in her handling of an emotional monologue in the final episode. Fatima explores newer territory too as she maintains a cold demeanour throughout, aptly bringing the weight of the responsibility in her body language. Raghubir Yadav adds a humanising touch to the godman, refraining from making him obviously evil.

Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub in ‘Hunkkaar’
| Photo Credit:
JioHotstar

It is the earnest performances by the cast that ultimately works in the favour of Hunkkaar even as it falters. Despite its shortfalls, the show appeals with the heartfelt rigor in its writing and aesthetics. Creators Nitya Mehra and Karan Kapadia bring a sensitive gaze, adding a sense of respect in their filmmaking choices, allowing the show to have a dignified life of its own without being watered down by algorithmic tensions. Even though not completely achieving what it sets out to, Hunkkaar’s reclaimation of justice outweighs some of its tonal inconsistencies, representing, ultimately, a victory of conscience.

Hunkkaar is currently streaming on JioHostar