Plot: Gullak Season 4 continues to gracefully unfold the heartwarming narrative of the Mishra family, quintessentially portraying the Indian middle class. The season is divided into five episodes, each approximately 30 minutes long, with each episode focusing on a distinct theme. Aman Mishra (played by Harsh Mayar) steps into adulthood, while his elder brother Anand, aka Anu, juggles the demands of his job and the responsibilities of being an elder brother. The family’s pillars, Santosh Mishra (played by Jameel Khan) and Shanti Mishra (played by Geetanjali Kulkarni), navigate the ever-evolving dynamics of their marriage as life progresses. Meanwhile, Bittu ki Mummy (played by Sunita Rajwar) remains the sweet yet nosy neighbor, adding her unique charm to the story.
The plus: The characters, now well-established, continue to grow, making viewers feel like they are part of the Mishra family’s journey. The performances by Jameel Khan (Santosh Mishra), Geetanjali Kulkarni (Shanti Mishra), Vaibhav Raj Gupta (Annu), and Harsh Mayar (Aman) are commendable, each bringing depth and authenticity to their roles.
Whether it’s the sibling banter, the dynamic between employee and boss, or the sweet and spicy chemistry between husband and wife, the show packs it all in a steady flow of wit and plain old wisdom. The fourth and fifth episodes are particularly heartwarming and positively dramatic. Aman Mishra, the younger child of the house, steps into adulthood with all its trials and tribulations. It’s fascinating to see how the show captures this phase in an everyday middle-class family. It portrays how middle-class parents navigate this transitional period in their child’s life, showing that, like any other phase, it comes with its own set of learnings and eventually passes.
This season also features Helly Shah, who steals the show despite her minimal screen time.
The minus: The first three episodes lack mature writing, with the third episode being particularly lengthy and dragged out.
Technical aspects: The cinematography in Gullak Season 4 captures the essence of a small-town setting with remarkable beauty, with each frame reflecting the simplicity and warmth of the Mishra household. The use of natural light and earthy tones enhances the show’s realism, creating a visually appealing experience. The meticulous attention to detail is evident in the mundane visuals, such as a cut-out toothpaste tube, a paper calendar hanging on a yellow wall, and a ‘sil batta’, all of which contribute to the authenticity of the setting.
The costumes also play a crucial role in bringing the show to life. Shivangi Srivastava’s thoughtful costume design adds an extra layer of authenticity, with Shanti Mishra’s sarees being particularly noteworthy for their simplicity and elegance. These sartorial choices not only reflect the characters’ personalities but also ground the narrative in the everyday reality of a middle-class Indian household.
Prashanth Ramachandran’s editing seamlessly blends each scene. The cherry on top is the title track of Gullak by Jazim Sharma and Simran Hora.
Verdict: Gullak Season 4 is a delightful continuation of a beloved series, offering a perfect blend of humour, nostalgia, and heartfelt moments. It remains a must-watch for anyone who appreciates slice-of-life stories that are both entertaining and profoundly touching. The Mishra family’s journey is one that resonates deeply, making this season a worthy addition to the series.
