Hustlers: Jugaad Ka Khel Review- An entrepreneurial drama that is as sharp and refreshing as its protagonist

3.5/5

Hustlers: Jugaad Ka Khel is based on true events and the real-life struggle of start-up CEOs and entrepreneurs who break away from the system to make their own life-altering products or ideas into reality. Co-written by Karan Narvekar and Rahul Patel, the Amazon MiniTV series is available to stream for free on the Amazon app itself. Directed by Harsh Dedhia, the series is completed and smoothly executed within 5 episodes, each of approximately 30 to 50 minutes. 

Hustlers: Jugaad Ka Khel Story and execution

The miniseries arrives in the nick of time to enjoy the tail of fame of 12th Fail but catches viewers by surprise with its similar formula but refreshing premise. Most shows and films focus on the journey of a hustler in non-linear memory scenes, while their present is playing out. Hustlers, like 12th Fail focuses on a linear, simple flow of narration and does justice to it, thereby creating a lasting impact on its viewers. 

The story is simple. A middle-class boy, Sanjay Sharma, who has always been an average student, but a ‘jugaadu’ or a person who manages well in difficult situations by nature, makes it to his brilliant elder brother’s alma mater, armed with sheer will and stubbornness. There, he realizes he wishes to be the one who gives jobs, instead of seeking for one good enough to gain his strict father’s approval and respect enough to escape the shadow of his older brother Manoj.  

Also read: Hustlers OTT release date - Here's when and where to watch the inspirational start-up drama 

And then begins the main plot, after several pseudo-heroic and adolescent victories at Sanjay’s esteemed college ICE’s Baahubali competition. The actual struggling journey from an idea to seed funding to series B funding is beautifully explained in simple terms, while it is depicted in quite a realistic yet inspirational manner. The show’s climax is a reminder of the fact that despite self-confidence and talent, the support and presence of our working partners and loved ones matter more than we think. 

Hustlers: Jugaad Ka Khel Performances

Hustlers features exceptional performances by a mostly fresh cast, comprising the likes of Vishal Vashishtha (Sanjay), Amman Uppal (Baba aka Brij), Maharishi Dave (Manoj), Anjali Barot (Vanshika), and Meherzan Mazda (Baka), along with the more experienced actors Anurag Arora (Sanjay’s father), Anubha Fatehpuri (Sanjay’s mother), and Samir Kochhar (Mihir Jain).  

Also read: Exclusive! Vishal Vashishtha on playing a corporate worker in Ghar Waapsi: In reality, I have been in Shekhar's shoes 

Vishal paints a convincing and sincere portrayal of hustler Sanjay, who is ready to use every last bit of his brain cell, in order to prove himself. From learning and using the intricacies of social networking to reaping its benefits to playing a game changing risk overnight to keep his company afloat, Sanjay plays a convincing Captain Cool, who sometimes needs the comfort of the soothing likes of Vanshika, Maa, and senior Baba, essayed by their respective subtle and flawless actors. 

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Hustlers: Jugaad Ka Khel Final Verdict

The series is an inspiring and brain-tickling one, that guarantees a five-episode binge any day. Its refreshing approach highlights the entire aspiring process of forming a start-up company, from having an idea to having a Unicorn company. Hustlers could have done with a bit more preciseness, both in terms of editing, sub-plots, and minor character performances.  

But if you are not finicky like me and prefer enjoying an entertaining, wholesome entrepreneurial drama that makes one yearn for those youthful, ‘jugaadu’ days, for what it is, then Hustlers: Jugaad Ka Khel is a must-watch for you.