Exploring the Intricacies of Law in 'Court Kacheri'
A Unique Take on Legal Drama
The five-part series Court Kacheri, directed by Ruchir Arun, has emerged as a delightful surprise this season. Its construction is thoughtful, and the presentation is engaging. Notably, the performances exude a genuine warmth, as if the actors are simply embodying their roles rather than performing.
In contrast to typical legal dramas, the courtroom scenes in Court Kacheri maintain a captivating interest throughout. The judges, particularly the witty female judge portrayed by Tulika Banerjee, who humorously reprimands a rookie lawyer, provide plenty of laughs. Although her screen time is limited, the presence of the talented theatre actor S. K. Batra as the presiding judge in a divorce case adds depth, leading to unexpected outcomes.
The series cleverly critiques patriarchy, showcasing its intelligent writing. It introduces viewers to a familiar environment before steering characters in surprising directions. Unlike Mamla Legal Hai, which often felt forced, Court Kacheri delivers its humor and clever remarks effortlessly.
One standout character is a female lawyer named Kaghzat, played by Sumali Khaniwale, who lightens the atmosphere with her quirky shayari shared over cold coffee. Initially perceived as a minor character, her absence is felt when she exits the storyline.
At its heart, Court Kacheri tells a touching father-son narrative, reminiscent of Hrishikesh Mukherjee’s 1977 film Alaap, where the son grapples with the expectation to follow in his father's legal footsteps. In Alaap, Om Prakash's character is a strict lawyer, while his son, played by Amitabh Bachchan, resists this path.
Pawan Malhotra shines as Harish Mathur, a small-town lawyer with significant influence, while Ashish Mathur, portraying the son, delivers a competent performance, though he falters in key dramatic moments.
Puneet Batra, who also serves as the series' main writer, excels as Suraj, Harish Mathur’s apprentice. Suraj's character adds emotional depth, showcasing his loyalty to his mentor while yearning for independence.
Batra brings a wealth of empathy and insight to his role, likely due to his intimate understanding of the character he created.
It's rare to find a series where even minor characters, like Satywan, played by Bhushan Vikas, leave a lasting impression. In this regard, Court Kacheri stands out, akin to the classic Sholay on streaming platforms. While it may lack the courtroom grandeur of Pink, its commentary on the resilience and significance of our legal system, despite its flaws, is noteworthy. One cannot dismiss an institution simply because of the shortcomings of some of its members.