Hunkkaar: The Roar, the six-part legal crime thriller streaming on JioHotstar, has received a mixed response from critics. Directed by Karan Kapadia and Nitya Mehra, the series stars Aneet Padda and Fatima Sana Shaikh in key roles and revolves around a minor’s legal fight against a powerful spiritual leader accused of assault.
The series has been noted for its strong central performances and its attempt to examine victim-shaming, social pressure and the challenges surrounding legal justice. However, several reviews have also pointed to problems with the pacing, screenplay and handling of multiple subplots.
Aneet Padda and Fatima Sana Shaikh Earn Praise
Aneet Padda’s performance as Meenu, the survivor at the centre of the story, has emerged as one of the show’s most appreciated elements. Critics have highlighted her restrained approach to the character, particularly the way she portrays Meenu’s vulnerability, fear and determination without relying heavily on melodrama.
Fatima Sana Shaikh, who plays a determined investigating officer, has also received praise for her performance. Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub, who portrays a defence-minded lawyer, and Raghubir Yadav, who plays the soft-spoken but unsettling spiritual leader Baapji, have also been credited with strengthening the series.
Despite the performances, reviews have identified shortcomings in the writing. Some critics felt that the show relies on familiar storytelling devices while introducing several themes and subplots that are not explored in sufficient depth.
Critics Point to Pacing and Underdeveloped Storylines
A recurring criticism is the series’ uneven pacing. While Hunkkaar attempts to explore public scrutiny, victim-shaming and the influence of faith and power, some reviews suggest that the narrative becomes fragmented as it moves between political rivalries, institutional corruption and other secondary storylines.
Several critics have also compared the series with other dramas involving influential cult figures. While Hunkkaar attempts to present the contrast between public perception and legal proceedings, some reviews suggest that the later episodes lose some of the impact established earlier in the story.
The Times of India described the series as promising but said its impact is weakened by underdeveloped characters, convenient narrative choices and unresolved storylines. Moneycontrol similarly noted that several important threads receive limited attention, leaving the show moving between different elements without fully developing them.
Koimoi focused particularly on the performances of Aneet Padda and Fatima Sana Shaikh, suggesting that the actors help hold the series together despite limitations in the writing. Mid-Day praised the show’s engagement with victim-shaming, patriarchy and faith but pointed to repetitive writing, inconsistent pacing and a predictable conclusion.
What Is Hunkkaar: The Roar About?
Hunkkaar: The Roar follows Meenu, a young girl who files a complaint under the POCSO Act against a highly respected spiritual leader known as Baapji.
The series examines what follows after the complaint, including public backlash, media scrutiny and the police investigation. As the case progresses, the story explores how social influence, public devotion and institutional pressures can complicate the pursuit of legal accountability.
The series also marks another major streaming appearance for Aneet Padda following her breakout role in Saiyaara. Created as a six-episode limited series, Hunkkaar: The Roar is currently streaming on JioHotstar.