Dabba Cartel on OTT: Why you should watch Shabana Azmi and Jyothika's crime drama series

Netflix's latest crime drama Dabba Cartel, starring Shabana Azmi and Jyothika, has been getting rave reviews for its fine narrative and cast performances. As it becomes one of the most-talked-about crime thriller series of 2025, let's take a look at some of the reasons that make it a compelling watch for the weekend.

Why you should watch Dabba Cartel on Netflix

Solid star cast in Dabba Cartel

Veteran actor Shabana Azmi headlines the star-studded ensemble cast of Dabba Cartel. From South's notable actresses such as Jyothika and Nimisha Sajayan to Anjali Anand, Shalini Pandey and Sai Tamhankar, Dabba Cartel is packed with a formidable cast. Gajraj Rao, Jisshu Sengupta, Bhupendra Jadawat, and Lillete Dubey also appear in pivotal roles. The web series is garnering praise for the cast performances as each one charms viewers with their unique characters.

ALSO READ: Dabba Cartel OTT release date: Here's where and when you can watch Shabana Azmi-led crime drama

Blend of crime, drama and suspense

This series offers a compelling blend of crime, suspense and intense family drama. In the trailer, we get a glimpse of the dangerous underworld that influences a group of middle-class women as their lives get entangled in the murky dealings.

Gripping plot of Dabba Cartel

Dabba Cartel, directed by Hitesh Bhatia, takes you on a wild ride as five middle-class women get trapped in a drug ring. From small business of food delivery to the dangerous drug dealings, these women embark on a thrilling quest of power.

Period setting

Set against the backdrop of Mumbai's Thane in the 1960s, the crime series has a captivating period setting that takes you back in time.  From costumes to the glamour of the era, you delve into Bombay's charm.

ALSO READ: Dabba Cartel - Shabana Azmi, Jyotika, Sai Tamhankar, Gajraj Rao set to bring a riveting blend of crime, thrills and unexpected twists

Intriguing themes

Created by Shibani Akhtar, Gaurav Kapur, Akanksha Seda, and Vishnu Menon, Dabba Cartel narrates an extraordinary tale of five ordinary women who unwittingly gets trapped in a murky world of crime and drugs. Themes like power struggle, betrayals, unlikely friendship and ambition form the crux of the plotline.  It also weaves a tight narrative with a consistent pacing and several twists and turns.

Also Read: Dabba Cartel Review: Shabana Azmi and crew lay the ground for 'Narcos Thane' with dazzling flair

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