Gaanth, Chapter 1: Jamnaa Paar Season 1 Review : A dark, gritty dive into mystery and crime

Story: A suspended, alcoholic, and hot-headed police inspector is brought back to take charge of a case that could be mass suicide due to mental disorder or ritual or homicide. Determined to find the truth, he is aided by a gifted and troubled psychiatric intern.

Review: The series, directed by Kanishk Varma, plunges us into a disturbing mystery inspired by the real-life Burari Deaths. We meet Inspector Gadar Singh (Manav Vij) at his lowest point: grieving his wife, suspended for a botched case, and fighting for his daughter’s custody. Abruptly, he's thrown back into the fire, tasked with a case that could be ritualistic mass suicide, murder, or something entirely unknown.

The show excels in establishing a dark and intense atmosphere, mirroring the unsettling nature of the case. What follows is a complex puzzle. Gadar Singh, determined to uncover the truth, navigates the familiar territory of shoddy police work, bureaucratic hurdles, and pressure to close the case quickly. However, the series effectively captures the grit of the Jamnaa Paar district—the influence of local power structures, and gang rivalries, adding a layer of realism.

One of the show's most intriguing aspects is its unique blend of crime, psychology, and even gothic elements. The investigation repeatedly ventures into the realm of the occult, with visits to graveyards and mention of black magic. We also encounter Savant Syndrome, a rare neurodevelopmental condition affecting Sakshi Murmu (Monika Panwar), a brilliant but troubled psychiatric intern who assists Gadar on the case.

However, the narrative can become convoluted at times. The frequent jumps between plot points and the introduction of a mysterious hooded figure add a layer of intrigue but can also be confusing.

Manav Vij delivers a powerful portrayal of a flawed yet determined cop battling his own demons. Monika Panwar shines as the ostracized intern, her neurodivergence adding another layer to the story's social commentary.

The series concludes with troubles escalating for Gadar Singh and Sakshi. As it keeps viewers guessing with an unexpected reveal about the hooded figure, the question of the true culprit and Gadar Singh's fate remains unanswered, setting the stage for a second season. Despite its narrative weaknesses, the series delivers a gritty and suspenseful viewing experience.