An accurate depiction of a typical small town middle class Indian family, Gullak is a show better viewed as a series of short snippets than a continuous story. The principal protagonists are the members of the Mishra family - lowly but amiable clerk Santosh, his hard-working housewife Shanti, their street-smart quick-tempered elder son Annu and his more studious gentle-hearted younger brother Aman.
There is a lot to like about Gullak. It presents relatable scenarios and anecdotes that by and large faithfully capture the family dynamics and the societal mindset. While the characters have different traits and aspirations, like most Indian families, they share a bond of love beneath the day-to-day squabbles, differences and challenges. Humorous touches are blended neatly into the writing but there is no shortage of emotional moments either. The setting is very well-realized, the acting too is praiseworthy and the music deserves a special mention.
Unfortunately, I personally didn't warm to Gullak nearly as much as others appear to have. In my opinion, many of the subplots are underwhelming and Annu's arc in particular is rather dull. On the other hand, Aman's progression lacks realism considering that his initial portrayal is significantly different and at odds with his later successes. The constant barbs and diatribes become tiresome and some of the comedic relief segments ("Bittu ki Mummy") are overused. The lack of connectedness between episodes and the confusing timeskips between seasons are also drawbacks in my view.
Despite these subjective criticisms, I would still gladly recommend Gullak to those searching for good slice of life Indian shows.
There is a lot to like about Gullak. It presents relatable scenarios and anecdotes that by and large faithfully capture the family dynamics and the societal mindset. While the characters have different traits and aspirations, like most Indian families, they share a bond of love beneath the day-to-day squabbles, differences and challenges. Humorous touches are blended neatly into the writing but there is no shortage of emotional moments either. The setting is very well-realized, the acting too is praiseworthy and the music deserves a special mention.
Unfortunately, I personally didn't warm to Gullak nearly as much as others appear to have. In my opinion, many of the subplots are underwhelming and Annu's arc in particular is rather dull. On the other hand, Aman's progression lacks realism considering that his initial portrayal is significantly different and at odds with his later successes. The constant barbs and diatribes become tiresome and some of the comedic relief segments ("Bittu ki Mummy") are overused. The lack of connectedness between episodes and the confusing timeskips between seasons are also drawbacks in my view.
Despite these subjective criticisms, I would still gladly recommend Gullak to those searching for good slice of life Indian shows.