Cartel is a Hindi-language crime action series set in modern Mumbai. It revolves around five powerful gangsters who rule different parts of the city. This tense and high-stakes tale dives into their rivalries, alliances, and the fragile peace they maintain under a strict truce enforced by one powerful woman.

Story & Theme

The story pits five underworld bosses—each with their own territory and strengths—against each other after the peace they’ve long held starts unraveling. The gangs include leaders of Dharavi, the auto-rickshaw unions, betting circles, arms dealing, and film production. It’s the matriarch Rani Mai who has kept them in check—until she’s suddenly incapacitated, setting off chaos. Expect revenge, crime politics, shift of loyalties, and intense family drama.

Cast & Characters

Here are the main players in this drama:

• Supriya Pathak is Rani Mai, the queenpin who keeps balance in the gang ecosystem.
• Tanuj Virwani portrays Major Bhau (Arjun Mhatre), a disciplined ex-major with deep ties to the underworld.
• Rithvik Dhanjani plays Abhay Angre, a cunning and ambitious member of the Angre crime family.
• Jitendra Joshi appears as Madhu Bhau (Madhukar Mhatre), known for his sharp wit and loyalty.
• Divya Agarwal, Monica Dogra, Samir Soni, Pranati Rai Prakash, Alankrita Sahai, and many others complete the sprawling cast of gang members, family, and enforcers.

Platform & Release Info

• Produced by Ekta Kapoor under Balaji Telefilms, Cartel premiered in 2021.
• The series initially streamed on ALTBalaji and MX Player’s paid service MX Gold.
• It has 1 season with 14 episodes, each approximately 40 minutes long.

What Makes It Stand Out

1. High-dose Crime Drama
   With gang wars, family feuds, and shifting loyalties, the show delivers non-stop action and tension.
2. Strong Ensemble Cast
   Performances—especially from Rithvik Dhanjani, Tanuj Virwani, and Supriya Pathak—add depth and authenticity.
3. City as a Character
   Mumbai isn’t just a backdrop—it’s a living force, from Dharavi lanes to glamorous film sets and crime corners.
4. Mixed Reviews
   While ABP News praised its dramatic family setup, calling it “impressive” with potential for a sequel, some critics like Rediff.com found it lacking in logic and entertainment.
   Lehren and The Times of India gave moderate praise, highlighting its thrilling energy but noting uneven pacing.

Final Thoughts

Cartel is a bold, gritty journey into Mumbai’s crime syndicates—filled with power struggles, emotional family ties, and street-smart betrayals. It blends action with disturbing realities and offers a raw look at urban power dynamics. If you’re into gangster sagas that mix drama with intense performances, Cartel is worth diving into.

Brandon

Brandon is the cheif editor and writer at WorldUnfolds.com. With a passion for storytelling and a keen editorial eye, he crafts engaging content that captivates and enlightens readers worldwide.