When Hathiram Chaudhary says, “Hum toh paatal lok ke permanent niwasi hain,” you know you are in for a ride. After five years of waiting, Paatal Lok Season 2 is finally streaming on Amazon Prime Video. While Paatal Lok Season 1 was a layered exploration of Indian society’s underbelly, the second season goes even deeper into the depths of this hell. Here, morals don’t exist and only power survives. With Hathiram Chaudhary facing his most dangerous case yet, Paatal Lok Season 2 pulls you back into its chilling and morally grey world of drugs, politics, and crime. So, if you’re wondering whether the second season is as good as the first, read our review of Paatal Lok Season 2 and find out.

Related: Paatal Lok Season 1 Recap: Everything You Need To Remember Before Watching Season 2

Gripping and fast-paced

Directed by Avinash Arun Dhaware, Paatal Lok Season 2 starts with the brutal murder of a Nagaland minister, Jonathan Thom, visiting Delhi for a business summit. Imran Ansari, now an IPS officer, is assigned to the case. On the other hand, Hathiram Chaudhary is investigating the disappearance of a migrant worker. As the events unfold, the duo find that their cases are connected. As they work together to solve the mystery, they are entangled in a web of politics, corruption, and deep-seated societal issues.

Will Hathiram and Ansari be able to solve this case or will they be sucked into this hell? To what extent will they go to uncover what is buried deep?

Paatal Lok Season 2: What stands out?

Jaideep Ahlawat’s portrayal of Hathiram Chaudhary is nothing short of exceptional. He has outdone himself in being real and raw. He brings a nuanced depth to the character who is torn between morality, duty, and his personal life. His chemistry with Ishwak Singh’s Imran Ansari is palpable and seamless. The way their relationship evolves over the course of the series is heartwarming and a treat to watch. Tillotama Shome, as SP Meghna Barua, is convincing and adds another layer to the already complex narrative.

Another standout feature of the series is its setting. The series is shot in the backdrop of Nagaland, giving the audience a peak into the region’s socio-political landscape. The use of the local language, Nagamese, adds authenticity and depth to the series.

As a new location demands, there are many new faces in the series and all of them deliver convincing and authentic performances.

Glimpses of humanity

Though the plot concerns drugs, violence, and crime, many glimpses of humanity and morality will warm your heart. Along with an exploration of Hathiram’s life, in this season, we also get a sneak peek into Ansari’s life. His conversation with Chaudhary about it is a moment of relief that will fill your heart with warmth or wet your eyes (guilty). Many small instances highlight human emotions in the most subtle yet profound ways; one-liners that feel like hope in our very own paatal.

Sometimes, the show might feel a little overwhelming because of a long list of characters and how they are connected but none of it seems unnecessary or overdone. It’s safe to say that this is the kind of sequel our favourite series deserves. Overall, Paatal Lok Season 2 is not as violent as the first season but its twists, turns and revelations will keep you hooked till the very end. If you’re looking for just one reason to watch Paatal Lok Season 2, it’s Jaideep Ahlawat in all his glory.

Can you watch it with your family?: The series depicts violence and obscene language. So, it’s not fit for a family watch.

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