Khakee: The Bengal Chapter Unveils Kolkata’s Crime Landscape

New Delhi, India — Netflix‘s latest series, Khakee: The Bengal Chapter, launched on March 20, 2025, explores the dark underbelly of West Bengal, focusing on crime, corruption, and law enforcement during the early 2000s. Created by Neeraj Pandey and directed by Debatma Mandal and Tushar Kanti Ray, this fictional narrative delves into the power struggles between gangsters and politicians amidst the gritty backdrop of Kolkata.

The series begins with a kidnapping gone awry, immersing viewers in a world overrun by violence and deceit. Shankar Barua, portrayed by Saswata Chatterjee, emerges as the ruthless gangster who builds his illicit empire. Simultaneously, Prosenjit Chatterjee plays Barun Roy, a manipulative politician wielding power behind the scenes. The narrative unfolds with IPS officer Arjun Maitra, portrayed by Jeet, as he embarks on an arduous journey to restore order in a city gripped by Barua’s terror.

Ritwik Bhowmik steals the spotlight as Sagor Talukdar, Barua’s loyal lieutenant, while Aadil Zafar Khan plays Ranjit Thakur. Their complex brotherhood adds a depth to the narrative, although critics argue they often resemble familiar archetypes rather than innovative characters.

The pacing of Khakee: The Bengal Chapter has garnered mixed reviews. While some segments enthrall audiences with intense action and political drama, others struggle with sluggish momentum. Critics noted that the show’s first episode felt particularly dense, cramming numerous characters and subplots into a limited timeframe, which may overwhelm viewers.

Production values shine through with commendable cinematography that captures Kolkata’s unique colonial architecture and bustling streets. However, the music score has elicited mixed feedback. Some viewers found the title track engaging, while others felt it failed to encapsulate the rich musical heritage of Bengal. The show’s mix of Bengali, Hindi, and English dialogue has prompted concerns about accessibility for those unfamiliar with West Bengali culture.

Despite attempts to feature strong female characters, critics argue that significant plot arcs still focus predominantly on their male counterparts. Chitrangada Singh portrays Nibedita Basak, a character seeking to establish her leadership amid a male-dominated narrative. However, she often serves as a device to counter Barun Roy’s strategic manipulations.

While opinions on the series’ execution may diverge, performances by key cast members, including Prosenjit Chatterjee and Jeet, cultivate engagement. Their strong presences contribute significantly to maintaining viewer interest throughout the unfolding drama. Ultimately, Khakee: The Bengal Chapter taps into the intricate relationship between crime and politics in West Bengal, offering compelling moments for crime drama aficionados, even if it does not venture into fresh thematic territory.