Gram Chikitsalay review: Amol Parashar adds life to this tale of healing and hope

India Today

08-05-2025

After 'Panchayat' and the recent 'Dupahiya,' Prime Video returns with another series set in a rural backdrop, 'Gram Chikitsalay.' The TVF show introduces Dr Prabhat Sinha (Amol Parashar), a gold medallist from one of India's top medical colleges, choosing to work as a medical officer (MO) in a fictional Jharkhand village, named Bhatkandi. He's a hopeful man, trying to bring about change and serve the underprivileged. However, his good intentions face an unexpected challenge - despite being an earnest and sincere doctor, the villagers place their trust in the local quack, Chetak Kumar (Vinay Pathak), over him.advertisementWhile Dr Sinha tirelessly waits for patients at his centre, a long queue forms outside Kumar's clinic. He finds himself in a tough battle, not only to gain the trust of the villagers but also to navigate a system entrenched in its ways. But, he soon realises that before he can change the system, he must first change himself. He decides to do away with his idealism to win the trust of the locals.The series opens with the death of a 92-year-old man, Sipahi Chowdhary, at the hands of the unqualified Chetak Kumar, yet no one in the village questions the quack's methods. Kumar's dangerous obsession with administering 'booster' doses for every ailment has tragic consequences, but the villagers continue to support him, highlighting the deep-rooted trust in the familiar, no matter the danger it poses.advertisement
As Prabhat Sinha enters Bhatkandi, the villagers are taking Sipahi Chacha on his final journey. While Sinha begins a new chapter, another quietly comes to an end, setting the tone for a story rooted in life's simple yet powerful cycles.Dr Sinha is introduced to the neglected Primary Health Centre (PHC) in the village, where he's appalled by the lack of basic facilities. He struggles even to reach the clinic, with the surrounding paddy fields making access impossible. When the farmer (Ramavtar) refuses to cut his crop to clear the path and threatens suicide, Dr Sinha attempts to involve the police. However, he quickly regrets this decision when he sees the police's harsh treatment of the man.Every place has its way. But, Bhatkandi doesn't go by any rules, making it all the more difficult for a city boy like Prabhat Sinha. Adapting to this environment becomes an uphill task for him. Gaining the trust of the people and establishing a steady flow of patients at the clinic become one of his major challenges. Forget steady flow, even getting a single patient at the clinic seems impossible. Created by: Deepak Kumar Mishra and Arunabh Kumar, 'Gram Chikitsalay' seems like an honest attempt at a series which is asking questions, and also answering them on your behalf. It mirrors the challenges that you are aware of, even if you haven't experienced the same in your real life. The series, directed by Rahul Pandey, works on the same lines as of 'Panchayat', and for that matter, the SonyLiv series 'Gullak', precisely because it tells a story of pure emotion, self-conflict and that constant struggle to achieve better and find the right balance in the chaos of everyday life.advertisementSeries like this are not meant for a one-day watch. It allows you to take your time and watch it wrapped in a blanket of emotions. 'Gram Chikitsalay' probably, successfully, takes you back home. Prabhat is a man who's constantly wronged by circumstances. So much so that his days end with sometimes necessary, and sometimes out of sheer need of escapism - 'galti meri hai'.Amol Parashar, who plays Prabhat Sinha, is convincing in his portrayal of a young doctor committed to serving the people of Bhatkandi. While Parashar's Sinha wants to serve the people of Bhatkandi, he has to face several challenges, some inherent while some self-inflicted.Parashar fits the role well, bringing sincerity to the character's struggles and growth. On the other hand, Vinay Pathak shines effortlessly as Dr Chetak Kumar, the quack who casually Googles symptoms to find quick fixes and prescribes dubious treatments.advertisementThe show boasts a strong ensemble cast. While the lead actors are exceptional, it's the supporting characters that truly bring the village to life with their nuanced performances. Like 'Panchayat', 'Gullak', and 'Yeh Meri Family', 'Gram Chikitsalay' stands out for its realistic storytelling and ability to evoke strong emotions from viewers.Anandeshwar Dwivedi, as Phutani the compounder, and Akash Makhija, as Gobind the ward boy, provide much-needed comic relief with their witty banter. Garima Singh, known for her TV roles in 'Ishq Ka Rang Safed' and 'Gustakh Dil', delivers a brilliant performance as Indu, the nurse. Along with Santoo Kumar, who plays her son Sudhir, Singh adds emotional depth to the show, further enriching the overall narrative.One complaint viewers might have is the underutilisation of Akansha Ranjan. However, considering Rinky wasn't even introduced in Season 1 of 'Panchayat', it was a pleasant surprise to see Dr. Gargi (Ranjan) in a few scenes, including her scooty ride with Dr Sinha. TVF shows believe in letting relationships simmer on a slow flame - something that is visible in 'Gram Chikitsalay'.advertisementThe five-part series excels in creating a believable portrayal of rural life as it blends humour, emotion, and drama. It's a refreshing watch for those looking for a grounded story that resonates with authenticity. The show has an open ending, keeping your hopes up for Season 2, with unresolved issues lingering.With its heart in the right place, 'Gram Chikitsalay' leaves you wanting more. TVF and the makers of 'Panchayat' once again prove why they excel at portraying the simple, relatable lives of ordinary people in small towns and villages.3.5 out 5 stars to Gram Chikitsalay.