Dabba Cartel review (2025): Worth your time?

​When women come together, they can achieve anything— this mantra fuels Netflix India’s gripping new series, Dabba Cartel, a story of four ordinary women trapped in a perilous loop of crime with no easy escape. Directed by Hitesh Bhatia and written by Vishnu Menon and Bhavna Kher, the show has drawn comparisons to Disney+ Hotstar’s Saas, Bahu Aur Flamingo for its bold female leads and gritty tone. But does it carve its own identity? As a critic, I found it a slow-burn triumph that rewards patience with sharp writing, stellar performances, and a timely message about resilience. Let’s dive into this Dabba Cartel review to see if it’s worth your binge.

Dabba Cartel Review: Star Cast and Plot Breakdown

Netflix’s latest crime drama, Dabba Cartel, has generated significant buzz, not just for its unique storyline but also for its powerhouse ensemble cast. The show features some of the most talented actors in the industry, delivering gripping performances that elevate the narrative.

Star Cast of Dabba Cartel

• Shabana Azmi as Sheila
• Jyotika as Varuna
• Nimisha Sajayan as Mala
• Anjali Anand as Shahida
• Shalini Pandey as Moushami
• Lillete Dubey
• Gajraj Rao
• Jisshu Sengupta
• Sai Tamhankar
• Sunil Grover

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With such a diverse and experienced cast, Dabba Cartel sets a high bar for Indian web series, blending elements of crime, drama, and suspense seamlessly.

Plot Overview

At its core, Dabba Cartel follows five women who run a successful homemade tiffin business, only to get entangled in the perilous world of drug trafficking. What starts as a side hustle to make ends meet soon spirals into a high-stakes game of survival, deception, and power. On the other side of this thrilling story, a major pharmaceutical company, VivaLife Pharma, is involved in illegal drug trade operations, adding another layer of intrigue to the narrative.

The series excels at keeping audiences engaged with its gripping twists and unpredictable turns. It almost feels like an Indian version of Breaking Bad, infused with a strong cultural essence. If Breaking Bad and Good Girls had a desi counterpart, Dabba Cartel would be it—replacing crystal meth with an underground drug network operating under the disguise of home-cooked meals. The combination of the food business and the criminal underworld makes for an exhilarating viewing experience.

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The first few episodes lay the foundation, introducing the tiffin service business and its unexpected transition into drug distribution. As the story progresses, the stakes rise, making it impossible to look away. With multiple characters, intersecting narratives, and layers of personal and professional conflicts, Dabba Cartel does a fantastic job of keeping viewers on their toes.

Twists, Turns, and Binge-Worthy Storytelling

The writing in Dabba Cartel is one of its strongest assets. The script is engaging, unpredictable, and tightly woven with suspense. Each character has a unique arc, adding depth to the overall plot. The series carefully builds tension, making sure the audience is constantly second-guessing every move.

One of the most exciting elements of the show is how it seamlessly transitions between business scams, fake investigations, and personal betrayals. The dynamics between the lead characters are incredibly well-developed, creating a high-impact drama that leaves a lasting impression. Every decision, every betrayal, and every consequence keeps the audience emotionally invested.

However, one area where the show slightly falters is in the pacing of certain romantic subplots. Some relationships seem to emerge out of nowhere without the necessary build-up, making them feel somewhat rushed. The series also introduces an intriguing investigation subplot led by Gajraj Rao’s character, but by the end of the season, it doesn’t quite pack the punch one would expect from such a gripping premise.

What to Expect in Season 2?

One of the most intriguing aspects of Dabba Cartel is that not all questions are answered in Season 1. The cliffhanger ending leaves the audience craving more, hinting at a second season that will dive deeper into unresolved conflicts and character arcs.

While some mysteries remain, it’s clear that the creators have set the stage for an even more intense follow-up. Will the cartel expand further? Will law enforcement catch up with them? How will the pharma company retaliate? These lingering questions ensure that fans will eagerly await the next chapter in this enthralling story.

Final Verdict: A Must-Watch Crime Drama

Despite minor flaws, Dabba Cartel is an absolute must-watch. The show successfully combines crime, business politics, and personal dilemmas into a fast-paced, high-stakes thriller. The performances, especially by Shabana Azmi, Jyotika, and Nimisha Sajayan, stand out, making the show even more engaging.

If you’re a fan of crime dramas with strong female leads, Dabba Cartel is the perfect binge-watch for you. Netflix has once again delivered a series that not only entertains but also leaves you eagerly anticipating what comes next.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.5/5)

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