TVF’s ‘Gullak’ makes a comeback with its fourth season, which is full of its signature warmth and lighthearted moments. With its characteristic warmth and realistic humour, the show manages to draw viewers back into the world of the charming Mishra family, as told from the distinct viewpoint of a gullak (voiced by Shivankit Parihar).
Although Aman (Harsh Mayar), the youngest Mishra, was mentioned in the teaser, Season 4 is equally about Aman and Annu (Vaibhav Raj Gupta), Shanti (Geetanjali Kulkarni), and Santosh Mishra (Jameel Khan). Tensions in the family increase as the youngest son faces the difficulties of maturity, resulting in unanticipated events such as a trip to the police station. This time, the conflict is between parenting and adulting, as an adulting child tries to rebel without a reason. Additionally, the normally cool dad Santosh Mishra starts to lose his temper.
The oldest Mishra son, Annu, has grown up and is now a medical representative, or MR. In the meantime, animosity grows between Annu bhaiya and his younger brother Aman, who were formerly inseparable. The matriarch of the family, Shanti Mishra, keeps them together despite everything, but not without her verbal abuse, or as the Gullak puts it, “inki rukhi si roti jaise jeevan mein jaise nimbu ka achaar hai Shanti Mishra ke maukhik prahaar” (In their life, Shanti Mishra’s verbal attacks add the much-needed tanginess).
In Gullak Season 4, which was written and directed by Shreyansh Pandey, the Mishras—who have their own unique brand of adorable eccentricities and real struggles—will win your hearts once more. Vidit Tripathi is the author of the five-episode series this time around.
The essence of ‘Gullak’s’ attractiveness endures in the face of these new difficulties, eloquently and sympathetically expressing suburban life. Middle class individuals are those who believe that the stolen gold chain will atone for their ancestors’ misdeeds in hell, as stated by the Gullak: “Middle class woh hai jo chhine hue gold chain ko bhi purkho ki narak mukti ka daan samjhe.” A scenario when the middle class is not as strong as it once was. In short, we middle-class people can find goodness even in the worst of situations.
The USP of ‘Gullak’ has been the strong performances and crackling chemistry of the cast. Be it Aman and Annu or Bittu ki Mummy and Mishra family – their camaraderie is unmatched. Once again, the cast delivers stellar performances, with Geetanjali Kulkarni and Jameel Khan shining as the bickering yet loving parents.
Vaibhav Raj Gupta gives ‘bade bhaiya’ vibes as the angry young man who tries to dictate terms when he orders Aman not to bolt the door. He also steps in as a loving big brother when the younger sibling needs him. He embodies the role of the older brother with ease, while Harsh Mayar brings depth to the character of Aman, perfectly capturing the nuances of young adulthood. Sunita Rajwar, as always, is brilliant as the nosy Bittu ki Mummy, who always lands up at the Mishra house at odd times. Helly Shah is a refreshing addition to the cast of ‘Gullak’ as Dr. Preeti, and her inclusion seems to mark the beginning of a love story in the series.
As usual, ‘Gullak’ does a fantastic job of capturing the straightforward pleasures and stresses of daily living, all while utilising witty banter and scenarios that viewers can identify with. Season 4 finds the ideal mix between drama and humour while retaining its humour, making it enjoyable for both new and returning viewers. If you are the type of person who gets emotional during scenes that make you cry, save your tissues for the final episode. It’s not a bad thing, Annu Bhaiya.
Known for its realistic storyline, ‘Gullak’ Season 4 is another masterpiece from the TVF factory, following ‘Panchayat’ Season 3. If you are a devoted follower of Gullak, watch the series right now. And the Mishra family, with their countless anecdotes, won’t let those who haven’t seen the play yet down.
4 out of 5 stars for ‘Gullak’ Season 4.
