Director: Debbie Rao
Cast: Anushka Sen, Revathi Pillai, Elisha Mayor, Kush Jotw., Vishakha Pandey, Arjun Berry, Ritik Ghans., Khalid Siddique, Tanvi Azmi, Shishir Sharma, Suhashini Mulay, Priyanshu Chatterjee, Mahesh Thakur
Where to watch: Streaming on Amazon Prime
Rating: ***1/2
Dil Dosti Dilemma is a refreshing take on the classic tale of self-discovery and the clash between societal expectations and personal identity.
Set against the backdrop of Bengaluru, this seven-episode series follows the journey of three affluent best friends, Asmara, Naina, and T.a, portrayed brilliantly by Anushka Sen, Revathi Pillai, and Elisha Mayor, respectively. They bask in the privileges of their affluent families and consider themselves the epitome of the ‘awesome threesome.’
The narrative unfolds linearly, with a twist that shakes Asmara’s world when her parents, Khalid and Arshiya, portrayed convincingly by Khalid Siddique and Shruti Seth, decide to teach her a lesson. They send her to live with her grandparents (Shishir Sharma and Tanvi Azmi) at Tibbri Road, a less privileged city area. This act of punishment catalyses Asmara’s journey of self-discovery.
Asmara’s initial response is to fabricate a story to her friends, pretending she is in Canada. However, her facade does not last long as she becomes immersed in the vibrant community of Tibbri Road. Through her experiences, the series beautifully explores themes of love, acceptance, faith, and the importance of communication.
The heart of the series lies in its characters, who evolve and grow on you with each passing episode. An outstanding portrayal comes from Kush Jotw. as Farzaan, the “fabricwalla,” whose presence adds depth and charm to the storyline. His interactions with Asmara aid in her transformation, highlighting the rich tapestry of human connections. Vishaka Pandey as Rukhsana, Farzaan’s Sister, adds another layer of authenticity to the narrative. Suhasini Mullay as Akthar Begum is foreboding, the rest in the supporting cast are earnest in portraying their characters.
The second and third episodes resonate with the timeless adage, “Kuch toh log kahenge, logon ka kaam hai kehna,” encapsulating the essence of societal pressure and the courage required to defy it. Through Asmara’s journey, the series imparts valuable life lessons about love, acceptance, and the need for authentic communication.
What makes this series infectious is its ability to strike a chord with the audience. The characters feel relatable, each struggling with their dilemmas and insecurities. Asmara’s journey from privilege to self-awareness is a poignant reminder of the transformative power of empathy and understanding.
Furthermore, the series effectively captures the cultural milieu of Bengaluru, painting a vivid picture of its contrasting neighbourhoods and social dynamics. From the affluent’s opulent lifestyle to the vibrant Tibbri Road tapestry, the setting serves as a compelling backdrop for the unfolding drama.
This compelling and thought-provoking series, with its engaging storyline, well-drawn characters, and poignant themes, resonates with the message, “Dil Dekhe Deko” long after the credits roll.
Overall, whether you’re a fan of coming-of-age dramas or simply enjoy a well-crafted narrative, this series is worth a watch. The series ends on a promising note for future seasons, leaving viewers eagerly anticipating what lies ahead for its dynamic characters.
