The Hindi adaptation of the Dutch series Penoza, ‘Aarya,’ made its debut on Disney+ Hotstar in 2020. Now, four years later, the third season continues the story of Aarya Sareen (played by Sushmita Sen) and her entanglement in a world of crime.
Aarya, initially a homemaker, becomes involved in the drug trade following her husband’s murder, all in a bid to protect her three children. As the third season unfolds, Aarya finds herself deeply entrenched in the drug cartels of Rajasthan, where violence reigns supreme.
Changes in Season Three
The latest season sees new writers (Amit Raj, Khushboo Raj, and Anu Singh Choudhary) and additional directors, including Kapil Sharma and Shraddha Pasi Jairath, joining series creator Ram Madhvani. This shift in the crew is reflected in the performance and narrative, which take on tonal shifts and appear slightly chaotic.
Aarya’s Evolution
Despite the changes, Aarya remains resolute and increasingly comfortable in her dangerous surroundings, all while balancing her roles as both a mother and a player in the drug trade. She evolves into a powerful figure, orchestrating killings and managing a significant heroin consignment.
Growing Threats
Nevertheless, there are more risks associated with Aarya’s new role. The pressure grows from criminals, sources of information, Russian alliances, a resentful widower, and the cops. Her children’s growing mistrust of her and her shrinking support system make matters worse and increase the threats she confronts.
Use of Female Voiceover and Subplots
The creators of ‘Aarya’ employ a female voiceover reciting poetry to establish the atmosphere. However, this device feels ominous, overused, and ultimately annoying. Similarly, the subplot involving moles within both the police team and the Sareen household feels stretched, detracting from the overall narrative.
Aarya’s Struggle for Power: Character Development
As the season progresses, Aarya finds herself clinging to an illusion of power, her time and opportunities running out. The loss of faith from those closest to her leaves her promises ringing hollow. Sushmita Sen delivers a standout performance, particularly in a scene where her character’s vulnerability, frustration, and desperation come to the fore.
Notable Performances
Throughout the season, Sikandar Kher impresses as the steadfast lieutenant Daulat, while Vikas Kumar shines as the cop determined to bring Aarya to justice. Maya Sarao also delivers a strong performance as Aarya’s best friend.
Conversely, Ila Arun and Shashwat Seth’s portrayals as drug lord Nalini Sahiba and her son Abhimanyu feel exaggerated, with their over-the-top wigs and intense expressions.
Family Dynamics and Emotional Core
Despite some instability in this season, ‘Aarya’ maintains its emotional core through the dynamics of the Sareen family. However, Aarya’s children, portrayed by Viren Vazirani, Pratyaksh Panwar, and Aarushi Bajaj, suffer the most from this shaky narrative.
Overall Watchability
Despite its flaws, ‘Aarya’ remains engaging and worth watching. The climax of the season serves as a reminder of the compelling nature of the character, Aarya’s world, and Ram Madhvani’s creation.