Manvat Murders, released on October 4, 2024, on SonyLIV, is a gripping crime-thriller series based on real-life events that occurred in Maharashtra in the 1970s. Directed by Ashish Bende and featuring a stellar cast including Ashutosh Gowariker, Sai Tamhankar, Sonali Kulkarni, and Makarand Anaspure, the show dives deep into a chilling case of ritualistic killings and the dark superstitions that fueled them. With its intense storyline, rooted in truth, the series has captivated audiences, albeit with a few stumbling blocks along the way.
Plot Overview
Set in the quiet rural town of Manvat, the series follows DCP Ramakant Kulkarni (played by Ashutosh Gowariker), a methodical and perceptive investigator from Bombay, who is called in to crack a series of gruesome murders. The crimes, which initially baffle the local authorities, appear to be tied to a treasure hunt fueled by human sacrifices and the darker sides of superstition. As Kulkarni unravels the tangled web of motives behind the murders, the story delves into the intersection of greed, ritualistic practices, and desperation, all taking place within the confines of a small, insular village.
The series is adapted from the book Footprints on the Sands of Crime, written by the real-life detective Ramakant S. Kulkarni, who led the investigation into these murders. This real-life connection adds a layer of authenticity and gravitas to the storytelling, making the show’s eerie atmosphere feel grounded in reality.
Performances and Characters
Ashutosh Gowariker’s portrayal of DCP Kulkarni is solid but predictable. He plays a no-nonsense, intelligent cop whose focus on solving the mystery doesn’t leave much room for emotional depth. While Gowariker does a commendable job as the straight-laced officer, critics argue that his character feels one-dimensional, lacking the complexity that would make him truly memorable.
However, it’s the supporting cast, particularly Sai Tamhankar and Sonali Kulkarni, who steal the show. Tamhankar’s portrayal of Samindribai, a woman caught in the crossfire of superstition and manipulation, is both vulnerable and powerful. Sonali Kulkarni, playing her older sister Rukminibai, delivers a standout performance as a woman whose desperation for a child leads her to make terrifying decisions. Together, their characters add emotional depth and a tragic edge to the narrative, elevating the series beyond a simple procedural drama.
Visuals and Direction
Visually, Manvat Murders is immersive. The cinematography by Satyajeet Shobha Shriram captures the rugged beauty of rural Maharashtra with its vast, dusty landscapes and worn-out village settings. The production design effectively transports the audience to the 1970s, with period-accurate costumes, props, and settings that feel authentic without being overly polished.
Director Ashish Bende strikes a careful balance between suspense and storytelling, but at times, the pace falters. The series builds tension slowly, which works to its advantage in some instances, but also causes certain episodes to drag, leaving viewers yearning for more dramatic peaks earlier on. It isn’t until the final episodes that the story gains momentum, with shocking revelations that finally bring the case to a climax. However, some critics feel that the slow buildup and lack of consistent thrills may test the patience of viewers expecting a more traditional whodunit.
Narrative Strengths and Weaknesses
The show’s greatest strength lies in its exploration of the human psyche and the devastating consequences of blind superstition. The plot, inspired by real events, gives Manvat Murders an inherent intensity. The series does not shy away from portraying the brutal nature of the killings and the terrifying power of fear and belief in the supernatural.
That said, the show struggles with pacing and a sometimes overly formulaic approach. Critics have compared it to high-budget episodes of Crime Patrol due to its reliance on a step-by-step investigation format that occasionally feels flat and uninspired. While the core mystery is compelling, the show’s tendency to get bogged down in police politics and procedural elements distracts from the more emotionally engaging aspects of the story.
Moreover, while the series aims to depict a complex, multi-layered world of crime and superstition, some viewers may find the portrayal of Ramakant Kulkarni too simplistic. His role as the unwavering hero lacks the nuance seen in other modern crime dramas, where flawed protagonists often bring a greater sense of realism and emotional complexity to the table.
Final Verdict
Manvat Murders is a well-crafted series with a strong foundation in true crime and excellent performances, especially from its supporting cast. It excels in capturing the atmosphere of rural Maharashtra in the 1970s, and the chilling reality of ritualistic killings adds a unique layer to the typical crime-thriller genre. However, its pacing issues and overly straightforward characterization of the lead investigator may detract from the experience for some viewers.
For fans of crime thrillers and real-life mysteries, Manvat Murders offers an engrossing story that slowly unfolds, but be prepared for a slower, more methodical ride. If you’re looking for a show that pairs atmosphere with intense performances and a hauntingly true story, this series is worth a watch, even if it doesn’t always hit the high notes expected of it.
With a solid rating of 3 to 3.5 stars across various platforms, Manvat Murders stands as a respectable entry in the world of Indian crime dramas, but one that could have benefited from a bit more grit and urgency in its storytelling
