The newest web series Sankalp directed by Prakash Jha reintroduces political drama to the forefront. Now famous for films such as Raajneeti, Jha once again explores the world of power, ideology and mentorship. The series, which stars Nana Patekar, aims to demonstrate how influence and ambition shape both politics and personal lives. With fans and critics already questioning it after its release on MX Player in March 2026, Sankalp has been a point of contention.
At its core is Ma’at Saab, played by Nana Patekar, the central figure of Sankalp. He’s a mentor figure guiding young politicians but also a tool of manipulation who exploits them to fulfill his vision. The series demonstrates that mentorship can be empowering as well as controlling. It depicts moral ambivalence, illustrating that politics is not just about winning elections; it is also about crafting ideologies and relationships.
The best part about the series is Nana Patekar’s performance. The story carries weight due to his commanding presence and his sharp dialogue delivery. Actors like Mohd. Zeeshan Ayyub, Neeraj Kabi and Kubbra Sait bring depth though the focus is on Patekar. He has been hailed by critics as one of the most memorable works on the political drama scene that have come in recent years.
Strengths
- Nana Patekar’s center-stage performance was strong
- Generational mentorship themes
- A layered narrative that connects politics to personal struggles
- An atmosphere of storytelling that lends the series a mythical quality
Weaknesses
- The pacing is uneven, with stretches in some episodes
- Sometimes this narrative is overwritten, reducing its intensity
- At present, visuals and creative implementation appear conventional compared to today's political thrillers
- A series of subplots dilutes the focus. As such, the story loses some of its gripping power
There have been mixed reviews from critics. Some praise the intellectual depth and performances, while others feel like the series is too long and lacks energy. Ratings range from 2.5 to 3.5 out of 5, indicating a blend of appreciation and frustration.
Sankalp is a weighty political drama attempting to marry ideology and entertainment. It does achieve its strong performances and provocative themes, but lags in pace and coherence. For fans of Prakash Jha’s previous works, it affords familiar territory with new depth. For casual observers, it can be heavy and slow. In the final analysis, Sankalp is an audacious effort to retrace the politics of mentorship and power, firmly grounded in Nana Patekar’s commanding role.
