Mandala Murders

Hindi film and TV industry is notorious for overselling a success mantra. In recent times, some of the other series which are based on the backdrop of small towns in Hindi belt have done exceptionally well.

However, what the makers of this series fail to understand is that the reason why those other series are so appreciated is because of their authenticity, tight direction, character development and excellent screenplay.

Mandala Murders on the other hand seems to be a very third rate attempt at just putting ingredients like small town, action, mysticism and some good actors together and hoping that it would turn into a good dish somehow.

The characters aren't developed well and a cheap substitute for character development is an abruptly concocted backstory.

Vani Kapoor is as ineffective in this series as she has been in all her previous failed ventures. Gym is not the only place where she should be spending time. Once in a while, she should work on her acting skills too.

Other well known and good actors have been fully and utterly wasted in this series.

All actors deliver commendable performances, making the characters feel real and engaging. The screenplay is smooth, backed by impressive cinematography and good direction. Although the plot feels somewhat predictable and similar to past thrillers, it still holds attention. A decent one-time watch.gr.

I am giving this series a rating of 6 only because of the character selection. None of the actors show seriousness while investigating the crimes. The main characters, especially Vaani Kapoor, delivered very poor performances. The character responsible for decoding the codes also comes across as unintentionally funny. The only actor whose performance was up to the mark is Surveen Chawla.

Vaani Kapoor is such a bad actor that I was rooting for the bad guys to win. Everyone else has done a good job.

Looks like there will be a part two. A Desi Stranger things Mandala Murders is an ambitious thriller. It blends myth and crime with good visuals, but its convoluted plot and uneven pacing can be a bit boring. Worth a watch for occult mystery fans.

Mandala Murders is not just another crime thriller-it's an experience. From the opening sequence to the final frame, the show grips you with its layered narrative, stunning visuals, and haunting score. The gritty realism, clever screenplay, and psychological depth make it a standout in the Indian OTT landscape.

The performances are stellar. The lead actor brings a perfect blend of vulnerability and intensity, while the antagonist is chilling without resorting to clichés. Each episode peels back the layers of trauma, corruption, and human depravity without losing narrative momentum.

What sets Mandala Murders apart is its atmospheric storytelling-echoes of True Detective and Suzhal, but with a unique Indian ethos. The cultural symbolism and mythological undertones enrich the plot without being overbearing.

Minor flaws exist-pacing dips slightly in the middle episodes-but the payoff is worth it. If you're a fan of intelligent thrillers that make you think, this series deserves your time.

Highly recommended for viewers who appreciate smart, slow-burn mysteries with emotional weight.