This middle-class family serial, ‘Bakaiti,’ struggles to stand out, primarily because it closely resembles ‘Gullak’ in structure, but fails to match its quality. The show misses the mark despite the presence of some talented actors.
Unlike ‘Dupahiya,’ which successfully adapted the ‘Panchayat’ concept, ‘Bakaiti’ brings talented individuals to the forefront, yet doesn’t offer compelling content. The series produces smiles more than genuine laughter, and its impact is more of an echo than an original statement. The family is introduced quickly, and the initial spark fades too soon.
The performances of Rajesh Tailang and Sheeba Chadha, playing the parents, account for a significant portion of the serial’s appeal, but this cannot compensate for the plot’s weaknesses.
The writing is weak, and the actors appear to be directed to compensate with loud and aggressive speech. The storytelling lacks dramatic tension; even during potentially serious moments, the script focuses on humor, using jokes that feel outdated.
Additionally, the interactions between the Kataria siblings are irritating and unconvincing, possibly due to the boy’s exaggerated acting. They lack genuine sibling dynamics.
Despite these shortcomings, the show does have a few saving graces. The moments when the characters overcome the subpar writing are notable. For example, Sheeba Chadha’s character’s suspicion regarding the saree is interesting.
Another positive moment is when the grandfather questions his decision to marry his daughter off after spending his day on his phone. However, the introduction of a tenant, central to the family drama, diminishes the viewer’s interest. The tenant’s arrival signals a predictable storyline involving a young match for the Kataria family’s daughter.
In conclusion, despite its short episodes, ‘Bakaiti’ is tiring. However, the potential for a second season remains, as the characters could improve. For this to happen, the team needs to break away from cliches and explore the middle class more creatively.