Cartel is a gripping Indian crime drama web series that premiered on August 20, 2021, on ALTBalaji and MX Player. Produced by Ekta Kapoor under the banner of Balaji Telefilms, the series delves into the intricate power dynamics of Mumbai’s underworld, showcasing a tale of crime, family, and betrayal.

🧠 Plot Overview

Set in the bustling city of Mumbai, Cartel revolves around five gang lords—Khan, Anna, Angre, Gajraj, and a mysterious movie producer—who control different territories of the city’s underworld. Maintaining order among these factions is Rani Maai, the matriarch of the Angre family, whose leadership ensures a fragile peace. The narrative intensifies when an attack on Rani Maai disrupts this balance, leading to a fierce power struggle and a series of violent confrontations.

🎭 Cartel Web Series Main Cast and Characters

• Supriya Pathak as Rani Maai: The formidable matriarch of the Angre family, whose influence keeps the underworld factions in check.

• Rithvik Dhanjani as Abhay Angre: A key member of the Angre family, navigating the complexities of power and loyalty.​

• Tanuj Virwani as Ex-Major Arjun Mhatre / Major Bhau: A former army officer entangled in the family’s criminal activities.​

• Divya Agarwal as Grizzey: A character adding depth to the intricate web of relationships.​

• Jitendra Joshi as Madhukar Mhatre / Madhu Mhatre: A pivotal figure in the unfolding drama.​

• Monica Dogra as Maya: A character whose actions significantly impact the storyline.​

• Samir Soni as Dorabjee: Involved in the power dynamics of the underworld.​

• Shubhrajyoti Barat as Gajraj: One of the five gang lords vying for control.

• Sushrii Mishra as Vaidehi: A character contributing to the narrative’s complexity.​

• Tannishtha Chatterjee as Romilla: Adding layers to the storyline with her performance.​

• Girija Oak as Rama: A member of the Angre family, involved in the family’s affairs.

• Pranati Rai Prakash as Sumi: A character whose journey intertwines with the main plot.​

• Krishna Kaul as Javed: Contributing to the series’ dynamic narrative.​

• Aditi Vasudev as Shweta: Playing a role that adds to the story’s depth.​

• Mayur More as Chiru: A character involved in the unfolding events.​

• Gaurav Sharma as ACP Dixit: Representing law enforcement amidst the chaos.​

• Kannan Arunachalam as Anna: One of the dominant gang leaders.​

• Anil George as Khan: Another key gang lord in the power tussle.​

• Ashwath Bhatt as Chairman: A character influencing the underworld dynamics.​

• Mrinal Das as Suraj: Adding to the ensemble with a significant role.​

The series also features performances by Vibhav Roy, Nabeel Ahmed, Aanchal Goswami, Amey Wagh as Dhawal, Riya Sobudh, Sanaya Pithawalla as Shreya, and Mrinal Dutt as Yograj.

📺 OTT Platform & Release

• Streaming Platforms: ALTBalaji and MX Player

• Release Date: August 20, 2021

• Number of Seasons: 1​

• Total Episodes: 14

• Runtime: Approximately 40 minutes per episode

• Language: Hindi

• Production Company: Balaji Telefilms

• Director: Ankkitha Maithy

• Screenplay: Sambit Mishra and Monish Talpade

• Cinematography: Rajiv Singh

• Editor: Prashant Panda​

• Producer: Ekta Kapoor

Cartel received mixed reviews from critics. Joginder Tuteja of ABP News rated it 4 out of 5 stars, praising its unique family setup within the gangster genre. In contrast, Sukanya Verma of Rediff.com gave it 1 out of 5 stars, criticizing its lack of tension and entertainment. Bharathi Pradhan of Lehren awarded it 3 out of 5 stars, noting its engaging plot twists. Archika Khurana of The Times of India highlighted its gripping portrayal of gang wars and commendable performances.

Santosh

Santosh Kumar is an editor at unfoldstuffs.com and a professional content writer. With years of experience he is passionate for creating engaging, informative and impactful topics.