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Gullak 4 Review: Reuniting with the Mishra Family is a Refreshing Breeze on a Scorching Summer Day

The fourth season of ‘Gullak’ faces the delicate task of maintaining its charm while introducing fresh elements, and for the first time, there are signs that the series might be struggling to keep up. Reuniting with the beloved Mishra family — Santosh (Jameel Khan), Shanti (Geetanjali Kulkarni), and their sons Annu (Vaibhav Raj Gupta) and Aman (Harsh Mayar) — who epitomize the North Indian middle-class lifestyle, feels like savoring a tall glass of Roohafza mixed with Khas on a scorching summer day.

The appeal of this TVF show, helmed by Shreyansh Pandey, lies in its relatability, portraying the small joys and sorrows that resonate deeply with viewers who have either experienced similar situations or know someone who has. This relatability, combined with the inherent likability of the characters, has been the cornerstone of the series. However, viewers are now craving more — simplicity is delightful, but a touch of complexity would help the show evolve with the times.

In this season’s five 30-minute episodes, the show delves into themes such as bribery related to illegal structural modifications, the aftermath of a chain-snatching incident, balancing craftiness with inherent values, aspiring for upward mobility while dealing with a difficult boss, and the nuances of adulting and parenting. These themes are explored through the familiar dynamics of the Mishra family and their nosy neighbor Bittu Ki Mummy (Sunita Rajwar). The writers no longer need to establish the characters’ quirks, allowing the audience to focus on the unfolding narrative. We see Santosh grappling with the discomfort of bribery despite his job in the electricity board, and Shanti’s distress over losing her gold chain, which signifies much more than its monetary value.

As the boys grow older, Annu steps into the workforce as a medical representative, while Aman navigates teenage angst, discovering girls, coffee shops, and risqué books. This tentative approach towards addressing teenage issues, particularly the sexual curiosity of puberty, marks a significant shift for the show, which has previously shied away from such topics to maintain its reputation for clean family entertainment.

The series subtly touches on the socio-political fabric of their small North Indian town, where the predominance of Hindu temples reflects the community’s insularity. There is a hopeful hint that the Mishra family might soon embrace a more diverse representation of India, potentially incorporating more politically nuanced themes. Writer Vidit Tripathi skillfully introduces the idea that indulging in X-rated content is not limited to boys, a progressive nod towards gender neutrality.

While the show risks becoming overly familiar, there is an inherent resistance to drastic change. As the series prepares for Season 5, viewers eagerly anticipate whether the Mishras will continue to evolve or remain steadfast in their familiar routines.

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Author:- Apoorva Arora

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