"Kankhajura" Web Series Review
"Kankhajura" – A Masterclass in Psychological Manipulation
If you’ve ever encountered a centipede
(Kankhajura), you know how deceptive it can be—seemingly fragile, yet
capable of delivering a painful bite. The new Hindi web series "Kankhajura" (streaming
on SonyLIV) is just like that—a slow, creeping psychological thriller that
latches onto your mind and refuses to let go.
Adapted from the Israeli show "Magpie",
this gripping drama explores betrayal, manipulation, and revenge, with Roshan Mathew delivering a career-defining performance. If you enjoy dark,
layered thrillers where no character is purely good or evil, this one is for
you.
The Story: A Brother’s Return & A Web of Lies
The series begins with Ashu (Roshan Mat
hew), who has just spent 14 years in prison for a murder of foreign tourist . His elder brother Max (Mohit
Raina), now a successful real estate developer, welcomes him back—but not
without suspicion.
Max is about to launch his dream project—a
luxurious gated community in Goa—and Ashu wants to help his brother and protect him and his dream from all those who are hindrance for his project. He will go to any extent to protect and impress his brother . But Max keeps
him at arm’s length, warning him to stay away from his business and his wife Nisha
(Sarah Jane Dias) and daughter. Why? What dark secret from their past
is Max hiding?
As the story unfolds, we realize that Ashu
is not the helpless victim he appears to be. He has a manipulative,
almost sinister side, subtly influencing those around him like a psychological
predator. The more he tries to fit in, the more chaos he creates.
Is Ashu genuinely seeking redemption, or is he here
for revenge?
What Works?
1. Roshan Matthew’s Stellar Performance
Roshan Matthew is the soul of this series.
He effortlessly switches between innocence and cunning, making it
impossible to predict his next move. His trademark stammer and nervous
demeanor make him seem vulnerable, but beneath that lies a calculating
mind.
2. Mohit Raina as the Flawed Brother
Mohit Raina plays Max, a man torn
between ambition and guilt. His performance is restrained yet powerful,
especially in scenes where his past catches up with him.
3. A Gripping, Slow-Burn Narrative
Director Chandan Arora (known
for Striker) builds tension layer by layer. The first
few episodes move slowly, but the payoff is worth it. The non-linear
storytelling keeps you guessing, and the moral ambiguity of
each character adds depth.
4. Themes of Bullying & Betrayal
The series doesn’t just focus on revenge—it also
explores toxic friendships, childhood bullying, and the scars they
leave behind. The way Ashu manipulates situations to
expose Max’s hypocrisy is chilling.
5. Strong Supporting Cast
- Sarah Jane Dias as
Nisha brings quiet strength.
- Trinetra Haldar (as
a woman from Ashu’s past) leaves a mark despite limited screen time.
- Usha Nadkarni as
the ruthless Mrs. Deshmukh is a scene-stealer.
What Doesn’t Work?
1. Uneven Pacing
The first half is slow, while the last
two episodes feel rushed. A key flashback sequence explaining why
Ashu went to jail is underwhelming.
2. Underdeveloped Side Characters
Max’s friends Pedro (Ninad Kamat) and Shardul
(Mahesh Shetty) are one-dimensional bullies. Their motivations aren’t
explored enough.
3. A Few Logical Gaps
- Why does Max suddenly forget that he bullied Ashu
as a kid?
- Some twists feel convenient rather than organic.
Final Verdict: Should You Watch It?
Yes! Kankhajura is a well-acted, suspenseful
thriller that keeps you hooked. If you liked shows like The
Family Man or Sacred Games, this one offers a different
flavor of psychological drama.
Rating: 3.5/5
Pros: Roshan’s performance,
gripping storyline, strong direction.
Cons: Slow
start, some underdeveloped characters.
Final Thought: Kankhajura is like a centipede—once it
gets under your skin, it’s hard to shake off. Watch it for the mind
games, stellar acting, and a climax that lingers.
Where to Watch? – SonyLIV
For Fans of: Drishyam, The Night Of Delhi Crime
Have you watched Kankhajura? What did you think? Let me know in the comments!
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