This paper examines the Punjabi web series Shikari (released on the Chaupal OTT platform) as a pivotal work in the landscape of regional Indian digital content. While Punjabi cinema has historically been dominated by romantic comedies and religious dramas, Shikari represents a distinct shift toward the crime thriller and noir genres. By analyzing the narrative structure, character archetypes, and thematic content, this study explores how the series utilizes the digital medium to present a grittier, more realistic portrayal of Punjab, moving away from the idealized "pind" (village) aesthetic to address contemporary socio-legal issues such as corruption, the prison system, and moral ambiguity. 1. Introduction For decades, the Punjabi film industry, often referred to as "Pollywood," has been characterized by a specific formula: vibrant musical scores, romantic tropes set against the backdrop of lush green fields, and a heavy reliance on situational comedy. However, the advent of Over-The-Top (OTT) platforms has disrupted this status quo, creating a space for niche genres and experimental storytelling. Avengers Age Of Ultron Afilmywap | Avengers: Age Of
Beyond the Fields of Comedy: A Critical Analysis of the Punjabi Web Series Shikari and the Evolution of Regional Digital Noir Rrr -2022- Hindi Filmyfly Filmy4wap Filmywap Da-unaloda Karem - 3.79.94.248
Shikari , a crime thriller web series available on Chaupal, stands as a significant departure from the industry's traditional offerings. Directed by Abhay Kala and featuring a cast led by Gippy Grewal (in a special appearance/production capacity) and Ravinder Mand, the series delves into the dark underbelly of the justice system. This paper argues that Shikari utilizes the freedom of the digital medium to deconstruct the "happy Punjab" trope, offering instead a narrative steeped in moral complexity and systemic corruption. The central premise of Shikari revolves around the life of a simple man who becomes entangled in a complex web of crime and incarceration. The narrative follows the protagonist’s journey through the prison system, exploring the dynamics of power within the jail walls and the external forces that manipulate the legal system.