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Set against the vibrant backdrop of Banaras, Bicchoo Ka Khel offers an intriguing mix of crime, drama, and revenge. Directed by Ashish R. Shukla and based on Amit Khan’s novel, the series follows Akhil Shrivastav (played by Divyenndu Sharma), a young writer on a relentless quest for justice after his father’s tragic death. With 9 episodes of 20-23 minutes each, the series promises twists, turns, and nail-biting suspense, but does it deliver a satisfying experience?
A Gripping Start:
The story begins with a bang—literally. Akhil openly shoots a prominent lawyer, Anil Chaubey, during a university event and surrenders to the police. What follows is a deep dive into Akhil’s life, where his interrogation sheds light on the people and events that have fueled his thirst for vengeance. The flashbacks unravel the story of Akhil and his father Babu (Mukul Chadda), who, by day, manage a sweet shop and, by night, turn into petty thieves. A burglary gone wrong leads to Babu’s imprisonment and eventual death, leaving Akhil convinced of foul play.
This narrative style immediately hooks the viewer, making it a binge-worthy watch at first. Sunil Pillai’s cinematography captures Banaras’ charm while adding depth to the series' intense tone.
Engaging but Uneven Storytelling:
The screenplay by Ghalib Asad Bhopali and Gibran Noorani is fast-paced, with each episode unveiling new layers of deceit and revenge. The sharp dialogues, penned by Kshitij Roy, add humor and wit, with lines like “Boyfriend hain soap detergent nahi, ki pehle istemaal kare fir vishwas kare” standing out. The inclusion of iconic 80s Bollywood tracks like “Aao Na Gale Laga Lo Na” enhances the show’s nostalgic vibe.
However, the rapid pace sometimes works against the narrative. Key plot points feel rushed, leaving viewers struggling to connect the dots. The climax, in particular, is underwhelming, failing to match the excitement of the initial episodes. While the build-up is stellar, the resolution lacks the punch expected from a revenge thriller.
Powerful Performances:
Divyenndu Sharma shines as Akhil Shrivastav, blending his signature comic timing with raw emotion. Fans of his role as Munna Bhaiya in Mirzapur will not be disappointed. Anshul Chauhan as Rashmi Chaubey, Akhil’s girlfriend, delivers a compelling performance, with their chemistry adding an emotional layer to the gritty storyline. Rajesh Sharma and Trishna Mukherjee also contribute with nuanced performances, enriching the ensemble cast.
Final Verdict:
With its gritty narrative, stellar performances, and nostalgic elements, Bicchoo Ka Khel has all the ingredients for an engaging crime thriller. However, the uneven pacing and lackluster climax make it fall short of greatness. It’s a series that starts with a bang but settles into mediocrity by the end.
If you’re a fan of Divyenndu Sharma or enjoy fast-paced crime dramas, Bicchoo Ka Khel is worth a watch. Just don’t expect every twist to leave you stunned.
Keywords: Bicchoo Ka Khel review, Divyenndu Sharma web series, Banaras crime thriller, Indian revenge saga, Amit Khan novel adaptation