Panchayat 3 Review: The much-awaited Panchayat Season 3 is here, much to our delight. The show, starring a stellar cast, first aired in 2020, providing a welcome escape during the COVID-19 pandemic. Its second season followed in May 2022. Panchayat centres on Jitendra Kumar's character, Abhishek Tripathi, an engineering graduate who couldn't secure a job through campus placements. Consequently, he decides to prepare for the CAT (Common Admission Test) exam while working as a secretary (Sachiv) in the fictional village of Phulera in Uttar Pradesh's Ballia district.

In Phulera, Abhishek meets Pradhan Pati Brij Bhushan Dubey (Raghubir Yadav), his wife and actual Pradhan, Manju Devi (Neena Gupta), Up-Pradhan Prahlad Pandey (Faisal Malik) and  Vikas (Chandan Roy).

Panchayat narrates Abhishek's journey from initial reluctance to embracing village life. His interactions with the locals transform his stint in Phulera from a mere résumé filler to an integral part of his journey. Season 2 delved deeper into Abhishek's evolving perspective, expanding the narrative to reveal Phulera's vibrancy and permanence. The village, with its complex socio-political landscape, became more than a backdrop – it became a character itself. 

At the end of season 2, the tragic twist of Prahlad's son, Rahul, dying in war brings the village together in mourning, showcasing their collective strength and resistance against the political exploitation of Vidhayak Ji. The second season concluded with Vidhayak Ji, seeking revenge, by initiating Abhishek's transfer to another village, leaving us eagerly anticipating the next chapter in Phulera's story.

Why Watch Panchayat Season 3?

Panchayat Season 3 picks up right where Season 2 left off, continuing the journey of Sachiv Ji and the colourful inhabitants of Phulera. As the show progresses, we see Sachiv Ji, who can now resign from his job and focus on his upcoming CAT exam in just three months, but he struggles to do so due to his growing attachment to Phulera. He has grown fond of the village and its people, losing some of his initial ambition to clear the exam.

The new Sachiv, backed by Vidhayak Ji, arrives in Phulera and is quickly turned against Pradhan Ji (Pradhan Pati) Brij Bhushan Dubey and Vikas by their arch-rivals Bhushan and Binod. Meanwhile, Prahlad is still grieving the loss of his son, Rahul, and his rage over Sachiv Ji’s transfer reflects his deep sorrow and reliance on alcohol to cope. 

The show promises a laughter riot as Abhishek gets reinstated as Sachiv in Phulera, defying Vidhayak's order for his transfer. Pradhan Ji, Prahlad and Vikas’ loyalty to Sachiv Ji is evident from the first episode to the very last.

WATCH PANCHAYAT SEASON 3 TRAILER HERE:

As the show further progresses, it dives into the politics of Phulera as the gram panchayat election approaches, becoming a central focus for Pradhan Ji and his group. Despite his initial intentions to avoid local politics, Sachiv Ji returns to Phulera, driven by his growing emotional attachment to Phulera and Pradhan Ji’s daughter, Rinki, in particular. This season moves away from the earlier obsession with Rinki’s marriage, allowing her more agency over her fate.

The rivalry between Pradhan Ji’s group and Bhushan's faction, supported by Vidhayak Ji, adds humour and tension to the series. Bhushan collaborates with the MLA to secure funds for building Phulera’s road, hoping to win the upcoming Gram Panchayat election. However, he is unaware of the challenges ahead. Pradhan Ji, Sachiv Ji, Manju Devi, Prahlad, Vikas and Rinki stand firm, countering every move with resilience and wit and are equally keen on rebuilding and reinstating their public image to ensure victory in the elections.

The ongoing conflict results in numerous comedic and heartfelt moments, promising more connection with the characters that have already received so much love. The eight-episode season ends with Sachiv Ji finally taking the CAT exam in rather dangerous waters, leaving us to wonder about his results, his future with Rinki, and the outcome of the growing village politics. Director Deepak Kumar Mishra has already hinted at future seasons, promising more to come.

Whether Season 3 surpasses its predecessors is up for debate, but it certainly lives up to the Panchayat legacy. The season beautifully continues Abhishek’s journey from an ambitious job seeker to someone emotionally tied to village life. It highlights the universal need for companionship and community, depicting how Abhishek’s initial focus on the CAT exam fades in the face of genuine connections.

Also Read: Panchayat To Get Season 4 And 5; Director Deepak Kumar Mishra Says 'We Have A Clear Idea'

Watching Season 3 feels like a homecoming, reminding us of the comfort Panchayat provided during the pandemic. Jitendra Kumar shines once again, alongside Raghubir Yadav, Neena Gupta and Faisal Malik. Neena Gupta’s character gains more screen time and authority, though male characters still dominate.

A special shoutout goes to Chandan Roy, whose portrayal of a common man from Uttar Pradesh is both impressive and endearing. His accent, walk and talk make him feel authentically from UP. Writer Chandan Kumar’s balanced depiction of village life is commendable and the music and background score effectively enhance the mood and tone of each episode.

Also Read: Neena Gupta Reveals She Shot For Panchayat 3 At Peak Summer And In Blazing Sun: 'I Was Complaining To Myself'

Panchayat 3 Review | Final Verdict

Rating: 4/5

Directed by Deepak Kumar Mishra, who had a cameo in the first season, The Viral Fever’s (TVF) Panchayat Season 3 meets expectations and is worth binge-watching. Streaming on Amazon Prime Video from May 28, it’s a must-watch for those curious about Sachiv Ji’s journey and those seeking an almost-real portrayal of North Indian village life. The show’s relatability and the humour found in ordinary lives, without mocking them, is its greatest strength.