Web series have changed how people devour digital content. And ZEE5 has always been a front runner when it comes to bringing quality content. Their digital arm has been showcasing fabulous stories catering to all genres. So, when the Rangbaaz Phirse trailer launched, there were no brownie points to guess that it was going to be my go-to series to begin 2020 with. Also, how excited am I to see Jimmy Shergill in it as Amarpal Singh. I’ve always maintained that Jimmy Shergill has been one of the most underrated actors of our times. He kills it with those eyes, sigh! However, I digress.
Rangbaaz Phirse, like its predecessor, explores the underbelly of politics and crime as their paths entwine. Of course, the plot of a good heart gone bad to avenge the wrong done to him is not new. But that’s what makes it even more interesting, because, how do you engage an intelligent and aware audience? That’s where the adept acting of the stellar star cast comes in handy.
Season Two of ZEE5’s flagship drama franchise Rangbaaz Phirse
ZEE5’s flagship drama franchise is the story of a youth caught in the web of dangerous political agendas and his downfall. From the rustic Gorakhpur of the 1990s, we now move to Nagaur, Rajasthan. This is the story of Amarpal Singh, a UPSC aspirant Rajput who quits the path of righteousness on being accused as a criminal. Bullets, bloodshed and bravado, it has it all. Caste politics and crime have always been two peas in a pod, and Rangbaaz Phirse only brings it to life on your digital screens.
Amarpal Singh and Jairam Godara take on the liquor baron, Raja Phogat, to establish their own liquor mafia. But between their intent and execution, therein lies the story and the multiple subplots where everyone wants their glasses refilled, quite literally. But will they kill, or will they get killed, that’s the question.
Set against the rustic backdrop of Rajasthan, this nine-episode series was shot in Bhopal. Jimmy Shergill is the protagonist wronged by fate while Sushant Singh essays the role of his trusted aide. Spruha Joshi brings the much-needed respite as the wife of Amarpal Singh. Sharad Kelkar holds his own as the liquor mafia lord as does Gul Panag as a stockbroker and confidante of Amarpal Singh. The cast had to learn the Rajasthani dialect for authenticity and have done a fabulous job.
Under the able guidance of director Sachin Pathak, propelled by a strong screenplay by Siddharth Mishra, Rangbaaz Phirse promises to touch all the right nerves. Yes, you will need nerves of steel to stomach the blood and gore because what’s a good crime drama without these, eh?
Nobody is born a criminal
And that makes you wonder what could be the circumstances that lead a youth preparing for his UPSC exam to choose a life of crime instead? And how does a novice like him rise the ranks through dangerous political agendas, brutal casteism and ruthless delinquency? From a university topper to the most feared gangster, Rangbaaz Phirse will leave you with a myriad of emotions. So much so that you almost empathise and agree with Amarpal when he says ‘Sabki samadhi yahin banegi’ with a deadpan look.
Gangster stories are always set against the backdrop of crime and violence, but every gangster has a backstory. The premise that no one is born a criminal rings true. And while the corrupt system is to be blamed, series like Rangbaaz Phirse bring to the fore the wrong in our society. It shows a mirror to the ones who perhaps live in oblivion or a life of entitlement. And you keep wondering when and why did that transition happen. What if he had chosen an alternative path? For now, all I can say is that Rangbaaz Phirse is a racy drama with crisp storytelling and exceptional acting. Catch it on ZEE5 if you haven’t already. I promise you won’t regret it.
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