Shehar Lakhot Review: A Gritty Crime Drama Set in Small Town India

The rise of OTT platforms has brought about a surge in the production of movies and series, often resulting in a repetitive content cycle. However, it's undeniable that the crime thriller genre has captivated the Indian audience, leading to the creation of numerous films and series revolving around guns, goons, and gangsters. One such addition to this genre is the newly released web series titled Shehar Lakhot, directed by Navdeep Singh.

The Premise and Setting

Shehar Lakhot is set in the fictional town of Lakhot, located in Rajasthan, known for its marble industry. The story kicks off in the dry lands of Rajasthan, where a group of boys stumble upon a dead body. The narrative then shifts to Gurgaon, where we meet the protagonist, Devendra Singh Tomar (played by Priyanshu Painyuli). Dev, who has been living away from his hometown and family due to a troubled past, is assigned by his boss to resolve a protest disrupting the business of a prominent marble company in Lakhot. Little does Dev know that his return to Lakhot will plunge him into a world of chaos, with accusations of murder, dirty politics, and a stolen SUV adding to his troubles.

The Multifaceted Characters

Shehar Lakhot boasts a diverse ensemble cast, each bringing their unique strengths and vulnerabilities to the screen. Dev, the lead character, is portrayed as a smart and resourceful individual, portrayed convincingly by Priyanshu Painyuli. Kubbra Sait shines as SI Pallavi, a strong-willed police officer, while Manu Rishi Chadha adds a touch of darkness and quirkiness to his character, SHO Rajbir Rangot. Chandan Roy Sanyal delivers a regal performance as Kairav Singh, the wealthiest businessman in Lakhot.

Sandhya (played by Shruthy Menon) emerges as a pivotal character with a troubled past intertwined with Dev's. Her motives and agenda add depth to the storyline. Alongside Sandhya, Bhi (portrayed by Manjiri Pupala) represents another strong female character, working as one of Kairav's trusted aides and handling situations with her gun.

Unraveling Mysteries and Twists

Shehar Lakhot weaves a complex narrative, with multiple stories running in parallel. Each character possesses their own past and mystery, gradually revealed as the series progresses. The central protest, spearheaded by local tribe activist Vikas Kachdaar (Chandan Roy), seeks justice for a slain deer. However, the protest becomes a catalyst for a web of deception, lies, secrets, and murders, with various characters becoming embroiled in the dark underbelly of Lakhot's politics.

The Plot and Pace

One aspect that may test the patience of viewers is the time taken to establish the plot in Shehar Lakhot. The initial episodes focus on introducing the characters and their respective backstories, reserving major twists and turns for the climax. Consequently, the storyline may feel convoluted at times, necessitating pauses and recollections to grasp certain details. However, the show's presentation and layered storytelling manage to keep the audience entertained and engaged, despite the slow pace.

The Strength of the Cast

Despite its flaws, Shehar Lakhot benefits greatly from the performances of its cast. Priyanshu Painyuli effortlessly embodies the innocence, cleverness, and smartness of Dev, carrying the weight of his character with conviction. Kubbra Sait's portrayal of SI Pallavi is exceptional, stealing every scene she appears in. Manu Rishi Chadha infuses his character, SHO Rangot, with darkness and quirkiness, adding depth to the narrative. Chandan Roy Sanyal's depiction of Kairav Singh exudes the regal aura of Rajasthani royalty, further enhancing the show's appeal.

Predictability and Tackiness

While the performances elevate the series, Shehar Lakhot falls prey to predictability. The plot, though exaggerated, fails to offer anything groundbreaking or mind-boggling. Additionally, the excessive use of foul language may contribute to the show's tackiness, detracting from its overall impact. However, the well-structured screen time given to each character allows them to shine and be noticed, salvaging the slow-paced drama.

Conclusion

Shehar Lakhot presents a gritty crime drama set in the small town of Lakhot, Rajasthan. While it may suffer from a slow pace and predictability, the series manages to captivate viewers through its well-developed characters and layered storytelling. The performances by the talented cast, including Priyanshu Painyuli, Kubbra Sait, Manu Rishi Chadha, and Chandan Roy Sanyal, elevate the overall viewing experience. If you have the time and inclination for a crime thriller with an Indian small-town backdrop, Shehar Lakhot is worth a watch.