The Malayalam series ‘Jai Mahendran,’ available for streaming on SonyLIV, is a delightful dive into the intriguing world of bureaucracy, captured across six tightly-knit episodes. This show strikes a chord with anyone remotely familiar with the operations of a tahsil office, often referred to as a taluk office, widely found across India. These offices are primarily involved with land revenue administration, and the series deftly portrays the universal experience of persistent, often inconclusive visits to such places. Created and produced by National Award-winning writer-director Rahul Riji Nair and helmed by director Srikanth Mohan, ‘Jai Mahendran’ unfolds the narrative within a fictional taluk office laden with a varied ensemble of staff members.
In his streaming debut, Saiju Kurup excels as Mahendran G, the shrewd deputy tahsildar stationed at a make-believe tahsil office in Thiruvananthapuram. Mahendran is a person of solutions, whether by cunning or goodwill, always ready to tackle any challenge his department encounters. Saiju Kurup’s portrayal eloquently oscillates between portraying a crafty trickster and a benevolent, sincere government officer.
The casting in ‘Jai Mahendran’ is astutely chosen with Rahul Riji playing the role of Balu, Mahendran’s trusted collaborator and moral compass. Among the notable cast members are Suhasini Maniratnam, Miya George, Suresh Krishna, Johny Antony, Siddhartha Siva, Vishnu Govindan, Zhinz Shah, Pauly Valsan, and several others. Suhasini Maniratnam portrays the wrongly accused and consequently suspended tahsildar, while Suresh Krishna assumes her position, only to find himself embroiled in chaos beyond his making. Adding layers to the storytelling are Miya George as Mahendran’s voice-of-reason wife, and Siddhartha Siva, who brings to life a scheming file keeper. Although not all roles are lengthy, the actors deliver compelling performances, enhancing the dynamic storytelling.
The initial three episodes effectively set the stage by introducing Mahendran, showcasing his methodologies in dealing with bureaucratic grind and systemic challenges. Thereafter, the narrative captures his downward spiral as he faces false allegations in a corruption case, leading to his suspension along with the tahsildar, portrayed by Suhasini. The series poignantly depicts how Mahendran ingeniously navigates the entrenched system to reinstate himself and his colleague.
.
The struggles depicted in the series echo those faced by countless individuals who are forced to undertake oftentimes hopeless journeys to such government offices for years on end. For instance, the tale of Shaji, played by Vishnu Govindhan, highlights this relentless pursuit as he seeks resolution from the office only to confront the non-existent nature of the land supposedly allocated to him. The series casts a spotlight on the impotence felt by officials, their actions frequently constrained by a dispassionate bureaucracy, the undercurrents of office politics shaped by divergent political inclinations, and an ill-fated sense of authority.
‘Jai Mahendran’ does not shy away from unraveling the fabric of corruption spread across various sectors, intertwining politicians, a media ravenous for ‘breaking news’, and publicity-hungry activists eager to grab prime-time slots. Elements such as enforcement directorate raids punctuate the storyline, and while some parts border on being clichéd, they nonetheless reflect a sobering reality.
Infused with an old-school charm reminiscent of films from the 1980s and 1990s, the series maintains a cheery and vibrant tone, with episodes running less than 30 minutes each, and showcases grounded, relatable characters free from angst, diverging from most contemporary streaming offerings. It stands apart from Rahul Riji’s other production, the First Print Studios’ crime thriller ‘Kerala Crime Files’, which is showcased on Disney+ Hotstar.
While watching ‘Jai Mahendran’, one might yearn for more profound storytelling, suggesting that the narrative could delve deeper into its subject matter. However, as intended, it serves as a light-hearted glimpse into the workings of governmental offices. Should a second season come to fruition, there lies potential for further exploration. Parts of the series undeniably connect with the audience on a personal level, reflecting shared experiences.
In conclusion, ‘Jai Mahendran’ is indeed worth the watch. As the show concludes, it leaves an enticing possibility for more encounters with Mahendran and his ensemble in the near future. Currently, viewers can catch ‘Jai Mahendran’ streaming on SonyLIV, inviting them into a whimsical yet insightful foray into the heart of bureaucracy.
