The fourth season of Panchayat arrives with high expectations—and leaves behind a trail of mixed emotions. Once celebrated for its gentle humor and grounded storytelling, the show now ventures into heavier political and emotional territory. The change is bold, if not entirely seamless.

While earlier seasons thrived on simplicity and warmth, this installment takes a more complex route. The familiar village of Phulera feels different—not unfamiliar, but certainly less idyllic. The stakes are higher, the atmosphere tenser, and the characters wear the weight of unresolved conflicts.

When Emotion Overshadows Humour

Season 4 picks up where its predecessor left off. Abhishek finally clears his CAT with a 97.05 percentile, a long-anticipated milestone that should have felt triumphant. Instead, it lands quietly—overshadowed by growing tensions, political intrigue, and personal dilemmas. His relationship with Rinki progresses, but even this moment of emotional clarity feels subdued amid the chaos surrounding Phulera’s local election.

Pradhan ji’s electoral loss to Kranti Devi marks a decisive shift in the narrative. The political undercurrents, once treated with satire, now dominate the screen with a seriousness that borders on somber. While the show’s ambition to mature with its characters is commendable, the tone often feels uneven. The subtle, dry humor that defined Panchayat is noticeably diluted.

Performances Remain Its Greatest Strength

Despite structural shortcomings, Panchayat remains anchored by its stellar cast. Jitendra Kumar brings a measured restraint to Abhishek’s journey, particularly in moments of self-reflection and quiet frustration. Neena Gupta and Raghubir Yadav continue to offer authenticity, even when the script affords them less levity than before. Faisal Malik as Prahlad stands out with a performance that balances grief and resilience, reminding viewers why the series has always excelled in human storytelling.

A Divided Reception

Audience responses mirror the tonal split of the season. Some appreciate the more emotionally layered narrative, praising its departure from formulaic storytelling. Others miss the charm and humour that once made Panchayat so distinctive. Social media conversations reflect this divide—with words like “dragged,” “underwhelming,” and “watchable because of the cast” frequently repeated.

While the season is far from a failure, it lacks the narrative sharpness and emotional clarity that previously set it apart. In trying to be more serious, it risks becoming less engaging.

What to Expect in Season 5

Season 4 appears to be a transitional chapter—setting the stage for a potentially redemptive fifth season. If the series can reconcile its newfound ambition with its original warmth, it may yet reclaim the delicate balance that made Phulera feel like home.

For now, Panchayat Season 4 feels like a village in flux. The characters remain compelling, but the heart of the show beats with less certainty. Whether this is growth or a detour remains to be seen.