The new middle-class family serial, ‘Bakaiti,’ suffers from a fundamental problem: it attempts to emulate ‘Gullak’ in both its style and family structure, but fails to achieve the same level of success. While ‘Dupahiya’ offered a superior execution of the ‘Panchayat’ formula, ‘Bakaiti’ falls short.
‘Bakaiti’ showcases some talented individuals, but the writing lacks substance. The series generates superficial smiles rather than genuine laughter, and its impact is more akin to an echo than a distinct voice. The family is introduced too quickly, and the initial engagement fades rapidly.
The casting of Rajesh Tailang and Sheeba Chadha as the parents contributes significantly to the series’ value.
Unfortunately, the duo’s performance does not resolve the numerous plot holes and narrative inconsistencies. The writing is uninspired, and the actors appear to have been instructed to compensate with loud and aggressive dialogue.
The storytelling lacks dramatic tension. Even when characters face difficult situations, the script prioritizes humor. Jokes about mock-mourning feel dated.
The interactions between the Kataria siblings are often irritating due to the boy’s exaggerated performance. They come across as forced rather than authentic siblings.
Despite these issues, the series occasionally shines. Sheeba Chadha’s character offers a moment of intrigue, and the grandfather’s bewilderment at his daughter’s marriage provides a fleeting chuckle.
The arrival of a tenant, which drives the family drama, negatively impacts the viewer’s interest. Predictably, the tenant is young and a perfect match for the Kataria family’s daughter.
Despite the concise episode length, ‘Bakaiti’ proves tiresome. However, a second season is desired, because the characters show potential for improvement. For this to happen, the team needs to move beyond tired stereotypes and explore the middle class with more depth.