Three
years after Tejasswi Prakash’s Naagin 6, Ekta Kapoor has flagged off the seventh season with a fresh cast and story. Naagin 7 cast includes Priyanka Chahar Choudhary, Eisha Singh, Namik Paul and others. The first episode aired today (December 27) on Colors and JioHotstar at 8 PM. Bringing new twists, mystery, drama and relationships to television, the supernatural show was much anticipated for all the right reasons. With Naagin 7 premiering today, the loyal audience is promised desi drama woven in a patriotic fabric. If you’re keen on watching the show over the weekend, here’s a detailed analysis of what impresses and what fails in the first episode of the season.
Naagin 7 Plot
It is 2001 Maha Kumbh; sadhus and sadhvis are summoned to Prayagraj, formerly Allahabad. Dr Tushar Sinha (Karan Kundrra) has called for an urgent meeting with the spiritual gurus as he predicts pralay (cosmic end of the universe) in 2025. His study and research with adequate knowledge and understanding of the stars anticipate destruction during the Maha Maha Kumbh in 2025. According to him, Ananta, the queen of Naglok and Anant lineage, can prevent India from the neighbouring country’s attack. While Tushar briefs the
sadhus and
sadhvis about the impending calamity, a bunch of people from the neighbouring country (hinting at Pakistan) enter India. Looking for Ananta, Tushar visits a family who has no clue about her. The invaders eavesdrop on their conversation and kill Tushar. On the other hand, Prathna (Tejasswi Prakash) seeks help from the same family. She gives birth to Ananta and dies.
24 years later, Ananta (Eisha Singh) is a fashion designer working at a news channel. She is a glamourous young woman. On the other hand, her younger sister, Purvi (Priyanka Chahar Choudhary), is a simpleton. Their sisterhood is deeply rooted in love and respect. But, there’s a twist in the tale. Ananta and Purvi’s identities are revealed just when the episode ends.
What Impresses
Naagin 7 stays true to its supernatural theme. There is intrigue, suspense, mystery and enough drama to hold attention. It is a homegrown show that celebrates Indian culture, roots and spiritual richness. The story is relevant as Prayagraj hosted the Maha Kumbh, which occurs once in 145 years. Weaving Hindu traditions and beliefs into a modern story is a commendable effort. The first episode takes its own time to establish the plot, the significance of stars and the alignment in the destiny of every country. Ananta’s backstory lays a strong foundation. Karan Kundrra’s cameo as scientist Dr Tushar Sinha is impactful. As the narrator of Naagin 7, he introduces the show and paves a path for further proceedings.The first episode doesn’t have just another random beginning. It keeps continuity in mind and uses past characters to develop a definite arc and narrative to the show. Tejasswi Prakash’s pregnancy and childbirth sequences are well-executed in terms of drama. Eisha Singh’s introduction as Ananta is all things glam and enigmatic. The actress carries the role with grace and style. She is brilliant with her expressions. Priyanka Chahar Choudhary surprises in a de-glam role. Purvi’s simplicity is her superpower. Ananta and Purvi’s sisterhood is certainly one of the highlights of Naagin 7 episode 1. It will be interesting to see how it changes with time.
What Disappoints
Visual effects on Indian television have enhanced and improved with time and technological advancements. Naagin franchise is the best example and a pioneer of this change. However,
Naagin 7’s first episode seems to rely a lot on AI. The entire Maha Kumbh and nakshatra sequences are unrealistic and unbelievable. Heavy on jingoism and patriotism, the blend could have been more natural and gradual than dumping it all in one episode. Predictability kicks in pretty soon. While the identity twist was a good move but it wasn’t surprising.
The male lead’s equation with his teammates and family members seems awkward, and the jokes feel forced. The demure to fierce subplot that will be shown in the series is a done and dusted concept. Hoping that the makers take note and bring the necessary changes to avoid a stereotypical season.
Naagin 7 will air on Colors and JioHotstar every Saturday and Sunday at 8 PM. Did you enjoy watching the first episode? Let us know!