Prime Video’s latest Telugu comedy-drama Sivarapalli takes audiences on a lighthearted journey into the quirks of rural life, blending humor with relatable struggles. Set in a fictional Telangana village, the series follows an urban youth grappling with an unexpected government job, offering moments of laughter, frustration, and personal growth. While the show thrives on its witty storytelling and charming performances, it also struggles to break free from the shadow of its Hindi counterpart, Panchayat.
Story
Shyam Prasad (Rag Mayur) is a city-bred MBA aspirant who reluctantly accepts the role of panchayat secretary in Sivarapalli. His real dream is to clear the GMAT and move to the United States, but in the meantime, he finds himself navigating an unfamiliar world filled with unpredictable challenges. From enforcing government campaigns to dealing with superstitions and petty politics, every day in Sivarapalli brings a new test.
Shyam’s interactions with the village sarpanch Suseela (Roopa Laxmi), her husband Mitta Sudhakar (Muralidhar Goud), and office assistant Naresh (Uday Gurrala) form the emotional core of the series. As he slowly adapts to village life, he realizes that his job isn’t just about paperwork—it’s about understanding people, their traditions, and their aspirations.
Technicalities
Director Bhaskhar Maurya brings a polished touch to Sivarapalli, ensuring that the series captures the essence of village life without over-dramatization. The cinematography beautifully frames the picturesque rural landscapes, creating an immersive setting. Sinjith Yerramilli’s background score complements the narrative, enhancing both the humor and the more introspective moments.
However, the show plays it too safe, often following a predictable pattern. The writing, while sharp in its humor, lacks originality in its conflicts. The show has all the ingredients for a great rural comedy, but its reluctance to take creative risks keeps it from being truly distinct.
Performances
Rag Mayur delivers an earnest performance as Shyam, capturing his frustration and gradual transformation with finesse. While his exasperation sometimes feels overplayed, his comic timing helps maintain engagement. Muralidhar Goud shines as the self-important yet endearing sarpanch’s husband, adding depth to the show’s humor. Roopa Laxmi brings a strong presence to her role, though her character could have been given more room to shine. The supporting cast does well in their respective roles, ensuring that the village setting feels lively and authentic.
Analysis
Sivarapalli is a well-made, entertaining watch, particularly for those unfamiliar with Panchayat. The humor works, the characters are engaging, and the setting feels fresh in the Telugu OTT space. However, the series lacks an individual identity, often feeling like a scene-by-scene recreation rather than a reimagining of its source material. While the performances elevate the experience, the storytelling needed a bolder, more localized approach to truly stand out.
Rating: 2.75/5