So friends, a brand-new series called Hunkkaar has just dropped on JioHotstar. Is it worth your time? Let’s find out.
Story & Plot
Well, the story of Hunkkaar is one we’ve seen in many previous shows and movies; the plot is strikingly similar to that of Aashram.
Then there was the movie Sirf Ek Bandaa Kaafi Hai, which featured the same kind of storyline and you’re well aware of the specific ‘godman’ figure this narrative is based on.
It involves a 17-year-old girl and the POCSO Act. How did it all unfold? You get to see the details of these events across seven episodes, each running for nearly an hour.
Hunkkaar Review
If I were to sum up the show in a single line, I’d say that despite its flaws, it definitely works.
Yes, it works.
You get to see a lot of new things—details that make you think, “Oh, so that was there too? That angle existed as well? I had no idea.” Many such revelations come to light.
Watching it makes you realize that we still live in a society where we’ve practically elevated living human beings to the status of gods. We’ve convinced ourselves that there is nothing above them—that even if they do something wrong, it’s somehow right.
We are living in an era—or perhaps have become mentally enslaved—where we can’t see anything beyond that figure. Who is right? Who is wrong? We’ve forgotten how to distinguish between the two; we’ve become completely immersed in that kind of blind devotion. The show highlights this reality in ways that will truly touch your heart.
And honestly, 101 percent, it will touch your heart.
The Courtroom Drama Is Where Hunkkaar Gets Interesting
I personally really liked the courtroom drama, which comes in the later part of the series; it hits the mark effectively. There are various new pieces of evidence and twists that make you wonder—”Wait, did that actually happen, or did they just make it up?” But then you realize that if they did invent it, the writing is brilliant. That aspect was really well done.
Yes, the show starts off a bit slowly, taking some time to set things up and explain the context. But once it finds its rhythm, it’s absolutely explosive.
“I’ve had a similar experience with a movie recently, although in that case, my patience almost ran out completely. My brother and I actually ended up fighting inside the theatre over The Paradise because I wanted to leave, while he kept giving me fake hopes that the movie would eventually become amazing because he trusted Nani. You can read my The Paradise Movie Review to know how that whole theatre battle went.”
For instance, the scene where Baapji is removed from his hut was executed very smartly; it was a great scene to watch.
There are several pieces of evidence presented from the girl’s side that seem misleading; the way they are presented makes you think, “Hmm, this is really twisting the case.”
There is a sense of sincerity in the show. It remains grounded and never tries to go over the top.
Performances
Speaking of the cast, Aneet Padda plays the role of a minor girl in the show. While in some scenes she might not quite look the part, in others, her genuine innocence shines through and leaves you impressed.
When the trailer dropped, many people complained about her lack of facial expressions. But consider this: what kind of expressions would a 17-year-old girl in this specific situation realistically display? Think about it. In the climax, when she speaks—and she truly delivers the lines—and the tears flow… honestly, you couldn’t ask for a better performance. Yes, there are a few moments where things feel a bit awkward.
Fatima Sana Shaikh has done a great job.
Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub looks convincing in his character.
Ram Kapoor is a powerhouse whenever he appears as an antagonist. I suspect this show has been in the pipeline for a long time; Ram Kapoor looks a bit heavier here, suggesting it was filmed quite a while ago but is only being released now.
Also, I couldn’t even recognize Raghubir Yadav at first—I had no idea who the guy was. It was only when he spoke that I realized, “Oh, it’s Raghubir Yadav.” You should watch the show and tell me which character you think he is portraying.
As for the rest of the star cast, everyone has performed well.
What Doesn’t Work in Hunkkaar
The show does feel slow in places—definitely. Aside from that, regarding the role of the media—specifically the reporter character played by Arjun Mathur—no real-life reporter has ever shown the kind of bravery he displayed here.
The actor playing ‘Baapji’s’ son seemed to think he was portraying a psychopath; his performance wasn’t good. Personally, I found it very mediocre.
Also, the production quality was quite average in several places. While the cinematographer did a good job—capturing nice long shots and drone shots—the set design for ‘Baapji’s’ “kutiya” (hermitage) looked really shoddy. It looked very cheap. If you compare it to the show Aashram, where the ashram was depicted as grand and impressive, this one felt like it was shot inside a dilapidated ruin. You’ll literally get that impression.
Is Hunkkaar Worth Watching?
However, if you are looking for something intense, grounded, and rooted in reality—without glamour or over-the-top elements—then this show will definitely work for you.
Regarding parental guidance: there are no explicit adult scenes. However, there is some strong language (profanity) used in the show.
A plus point is that the story concludes within a single season.
I’d rate the show 7 out of 10.
That’s all for now. Take care of yourself and your family, and I’ll be back soon.