“Sankalp Review: Prakash Jha’s Political Web Series Starring Nana Patekar Struggles with Pacing Despite Strong Themes”
Sankalp Review: Prakash Jha’s Political Web Series Starring Nana Patekar Delivers Ambition but Falters in Execution
When renowned filmmaker Prakash Jha steps back into the political arena, expectations soar. Known for dissecting power dynamics in films like Raajneeti and Gangaajal, Jha’s latest venture, Sankalp, aims to explore the intricate web of ideology and influence. Anchored by the formidable Nana Patekar, the series promises a compelling narrative about mentorship and ambition but struggles with uneven pacing and a stretched storyline.
A Promising Premise
Sankalp introduces viewers to Ma’at Saab (Nana Patekar), a modern reinterpretation of the Chanakya-Chandragupta relationship. His mission is straightforward: to train bright young minds who will infiltrate the administrative system and reshape it from within. Operating a powerful UPSC coaching center in Bihar, Ma’at Saab ensures that the future bureaucrats owe their loyalty to him.
The most engaging aspect of the series is the evolving relationship between Ma’at Saab and his protégé, Aditya (Mohammad Zeeshan Ayyub). What begins as admiration soon morphs into ideological tension as ambition complicates their bond. These moments of conflict provide the dramatic weight that Sankalp aspires to achieve.
Performances That Shine
At the heart of Sankalp is Nana Patekar, whose portrayal of Kanhaiya Lal, or Ma’at Saab, is nothing short of captivating. With a performance marked by restraint, Patekar commands attention without raising his voice. His ability to convey authority through subtlety elevates the material, even when the writing falters.
Mohammad Zeeshan Ayyub delivers a steady performance as Aditya, navigating the complexities of loyalty and ambition with ease. His character keeps viewers guessing, adding layers to the political chess game at play.
However, not all performances hit the mark. Kubbra Sait’s portrayal of IPS officer Praveen Sheikh feels underdeveloped, leaving audiences struggling to connect with her character. Neeraj Kabi, despite being a talented actor, delivers a jarring moment in episode six that disrupts the narrative flow. Sanjay Kapoor and other supporting actors also find themselves with limited scope, leaving their potential untapped.
The Good and the Bad
While Sankalp is rich in ideas, its pacing becomes a significant drawback. The series, spanning nearly ten episodes, often meanders through subplots that fail to enhance the central conflict. The tension builds slowly, but the eventual payoff lacks the sharpness that the setup demands.
In political dramas, the thrill lies in witnessing strategy unfold. Unfortunately, Sankalp often resorts to discussing strategies rather than showcasing them, diluting the urgency that characterized Jha’s earlier works. The series attempts to resonate with a Tier 3 audience, but the world-building feels overly simplified.
The Verdict
Sankalp is a series brimming with ambition, thought-provoking ideas, and a commanding central performance. However, its sprawling narrative and uneven pacing detract from what could have been a gripping political drama. For viewers who appreciate dialogue-driven stories about power and ideology, the series still offers enough intrigue to keep them engaged.
Rating: 2.5 out of 5 stars.
Sankalp is currently streaming on Amazon MX Player and can be watched for free. Watch the trailer here.