The Magic Of Shiri Review: Divyanka Tripathi's Magic Show is All About Female Strength and Power

Divyanka Tripathi has taken over the platform with her latest show The Magic Of Shiri. The 10-episode slice-of-life drama is currently streaming on Jio Cinema Prime and follows the life of Shiri, a green-eyed poet who dares to fulfill his childhood dream of becoming a magician. Starring Divyanka Tripathi in the lead role, Jaaved Jaferi in the form of a mysterious Guru and Namit Das in the supporting role, with a surprising combination of magic, the series brings together magic, emotion-inducing and powerful life lessons. 

Set in the early 2000s, The Magic Of Shiri introduces Shiri Shah, a cheerful and playful housewife who isn't limited to just kitchen and household chores. The poet has an extraordinary passion for magic, which she displays for her children using self-taught poetic devices. The humorous mode in the story comes when the poet gets the opportunity to learn to dance professionally and perform in front of the audience. Saleem Magician (Jaaved Jaferi) is an experienced magician, who poses as a guru of poetry and inculcates in him the belief that "real magicians cannot teach, they are better than magicians." However, Shiri's journey is not easy to undertake, it takes a lot of time. As they try to cope with family expectations and societal pressures, they are forced to face a universal struggle, which is a great opportunity for women to try to carry forward their great aspirations. It beautifully depicts the challenge of balancing individual dreams with societal norms, which leads to the poet's journey into the depths of the audience.

Divyanka Tripathi's portrayal is undoubtedly Series's heart. Her performance is both dramatic and powerful, showcasing the emotional depth of a woman who dares to dream beyond her domestic role. Jaaved Jafferi brings wisdom to the role of Guru Saleem of poetry, who serves as a symbol of knowledge and encouragement. His experiences as a magician and his bitter relationship with Shire's family add layers to his character, especially when they traumatize him and teach him life's lessons about faith in the soul.Namit Das in the form of Naveen, Shiri's estranged husband, provides a contrasting character who represents the traditional expectations of a man in a patriarchal society. Her lonely final journey complicates the poem's journey, revealing the tension between family duties and individual aspirations.

The Magic Of Shiri sheds light on women empowerment, how to move forward in life despite facing difficulties and achieving the dreams you have always hoped for. However, the story boils at some points along the mixed path. Divyanka Tripathi and Javed Jaferi's acting skills are commendable. If you are keen on a day-to-day tale filled with magical elements, then Birasa Dasagupta's series is a good option.