ZEE5’s new Telugu web series, Paruvu, delves into complex social issues like caste discrimination, honor killings, and political maneuvering. Led by showrunner Pavan Sadineni and directors Siddharth Naidu and Rajasekhar Vadlapati, the series boasts a talented cast including Nivetha Pethuraj, Naresh Agastya, Naga Babu, and Praneetha Patnaik.
A Story of Difficult Choices and Entangled Lives
Paruvu centers around Dolly (Nivetha Pethuraj), an upper-caste woman who defies her family to marry Sudheer (Naresh Agastya) from a lower caste. The couple’s peaceful life takes a drastic turn when a visit to Dolly’s hometown leads to a deadly confrontation. What unfolds is a series of events that forces them to make difficult choices with far-reaching consequences.
Compelling Characters and Performances
The series excels in its portrayal of morally ambiguous characters. Each individual, from the desperate couple on the run to the cunning politician (played masterfully by Naga Babu) and the worried fiancee (Praneetha Patnaik delivers a standout performance), is driven by self-preservation and a disregard for the repercussions of their actions. This grey morality keeps the audience guessing and prevents them from easily siding with any character.
Nuanced Storytelling with Room for Improvement
Paruvu tackles a multitude of themes, weaving together narratives that explore caste violence, social hierarchy, and political corruption. While the writers successfully connect these subplots, the initial episodes could have benefitted from a tighter pace and clearer introductions. The excessive use of profanity might also limit its appeal to some viewers.
Technically Sound with a Captivating Cliffhanger
Shravan Bharadwaj’s background score effectively amplifies the tension, while Chinta Vidya Sagar’s cinematography creates a visually immersive experience. The production values are high, and the editing, while mostly competent, could have been sharper in certain portions. The series concludes with a well-executed cliffhanger, leaving viewers eager for a potential second season.
A Must-Watch for Fans of Gripping Dramas
Despite its pacing issues and occasional use of strong language, Paruvu emerges as a gripping and thought-provoking web series. The exceptional performances, particularly by Nivetha Pethuraj and Praneetha Patnaik, elevate the material. The series’ exploration of social issues and its morally complex characters make it a compelling watch for fans of intricate dramas.