The fourth season of the popular Amazon Prime Video series Panchayat has premiered, but the finale, in particular, has sparked disappointment among viewers and critics alike. Many feel that the latest season has deviated from the show's original charm, humor, and emotional depth, resulting in the lowest ratings the series has seen so far.
While earlier seasons were lauded for their simplicity and relatable portrayal of rural life, season 4 centers around the escalating political tensions in Phulera, shifting the show's tone. This change in focus has left many viewers underwhelmed, with some criticizing the ending as a major letdown. On IMDb, the finale episode "Dabdaba" has received an 8.4 rating, the lowest in the show's history. In comparison, the season 1 finale scored an 8.8, season 2 reached a high of 9.6, and season 3 earned a solid 9.
Social media platforms have been flooded with expressions of frustration from fans. Many viewers feel that the show has lost its unique selling point, namely its comedy, and has become slow and boring in parts. Some have pointed out the excessive focus on "bad politics" and a disappointing ending that has "ruined a good series." Others commented on the lack of the signature humor and the dragged-out feeling of the season, suggesting that it had potential but ultimately fell short.
Several reviews highlight the shift in the show's core elements. While earlier seasons thrived on simplicity, warmth, and subtle humor, season 4 leans heavily into political machinations, sacrificing the emotional core that once defined it. The focus on the Panchayat elections and the power struggle between different factions has been criticized for sucking the joy and innocence out of the narrative. Some viewers feel that the new season feels more manufactured and formulaic, lacking the freshness of previous seasons.
Despite the criticism, some viewers and critics have acknowledged the strong performances of the cast, particularly the supporting actors. Raghuvir Yadav, who plays Pradhan ji, delivers a memorable performance, even though his character's portrayal as a politician has been questioned. Jitendra Kumar and Neena Gupta are capable as always, but their characters seem subdued by the events unfolding around them. Some appreciate the storyline and emotional depth, while others express disappointment with the ending and pacing.
The season finale also leaves several questions unanswered, setting the stage for a potential season 5. The cliffhanger ending involves Abhishek's MBA entrance exam results, Manju Devi's political future, and Prahlad's potential entry into MLA politics. It remains to be seen whether Abhishek will leave Phulera to pursue his MBA, what will happen to his relationship with Rinki, and whether Manju Devi can stage a political comeback.
Overall, Panchayat season 4 has received mixed reviews, with many viewers expressing disappointment with the finale. The shift in focus towards political drama, the slower pacing, and the lack of humor have been cited as the main reasons for the negative reception. While the performances of the cast have been praised, the season as a whole has failed to strike the same chord as its predecessors, leaving fans hoping for a stronger season 5 to wrap up the series.
