Netflix’s Dabba Cartel comes with a solid premise—an all-women drug empire in the heart of Thane. Sounds thrilling, right? Add to that a powerhouse cast led by Shabana Azmi, Jyotika, and Nimisha Sajayan, and you’d expect a gripping crime saga. But does it deliver? Not quite. While the performances shine, the storytelling doesn’t pack the punch it promises.
The Plot: From Tiffin Boxes to the Drug Trade
Raji (Shalini Pandey) runs a small tiffin service with her house help, Mala (Nimisha Sajayan). Their quiet lives take a turn when Mala’s boyfriend convinces them to smuggle weed in lunchboxes. What starts as a side hustle quickly spirals into something much bigger.
Raji’s mother-in-law, Sheela (Shabana Azmi), steps in—but not in the way you’d expect. She’s not just a concerned elder; she’s got a past that makes her far more dangerous than she seems. Meanwhile, Varuna (Jyotika), a former corporate hotshot, struggles with a failing marriage and a salon on the brink of collapse.
When an opportunity lands at their feet—this time, in the form of an even more dangerous drug—these women must decide if they’re in it for survival or power.
What Works: Stellar Acting and a Realistic Setting
Shabana Azmi Owns the Screen
Shabana Azmi reminds us why she’s a legend. Her portrayal of Sheela is both commanding and unpredictable, bringing back shades of her Godmother days. She’s the kind of character who keeps you guessing—and that’s what makes her so watchable.
Nimisha Sajayan is the Surprise Package
Mala might seem naive at first, but there’s more to her than meets the eye. Nimisha Sajayan plays the role with quiet strength, making her one of the most believable characters in the series.
Jyotika’s Comeback Impresses
Jyotika steps into the crime world with ease, proving she hasn’t lost her magic. Her role could have had more depth, but she makes the most of it with her screen presence.
A World That Feels Lived-In
Unlike many Indian crime dramas that exaggerate the glitz and gore, Dabba Cartel keeps things grounded. The narrow lanes of Thane, the cramped kitchens where food and contraband mix, the small-time dealers with big ambitions—it all feels real.
What Doesn’t: Predictable Story and Missed Opportunities
A Crime Drama That Lacks Edge
Great crime shows (Breaking Bad, Narcos, Weeds) keep you hooked with unexpected twists. Dabba Cartel doesn’t. Once you see a problem arise, you can pretty much guess how it’ll be solved. The thrill fades fast.
Underused Talent
Shalini Pandey, despite being the lead, doesn’t get much to do beyond looking stressed. Sai Tamhankar and Gajraj Rao, both powerhouse performers, are stuck in roles that don’t match their talent. Even Anjali Anand, who brings energy to her character, gets limited screen time.
A Strong Start That Fizzles Out
The first episode sets things up well. You’re intrigued. But as the show moves forward, the tension doesn’t build—it just plateaus. Instead of feeling like a rollercoaster ride, it’s more of a straight road with a few speed bumps.
Final Verdict: A Show That Had Everything—Except a Killer Script
Dabba Cartel could have been a game-changer. The performances are fantastic, the world feels real, and the concept had huge potential. But weak writing and predictable storytelling hold it back.
Should you watch it? If you love great performances, yes. But if you’re expecting a nail-biting crime drama, you might want to look elsewhere. CLICK for more updates.
⭐ Rating: 3/5 ⭐
