'Saare Jahan Se Accha' Review, Pratik Gandhi, Sunny Hinduja Shine In 1970s Indo-Pak Spy Thriller

Now streaming on Netflix, Saare Jahan Se Accha is a spy series that explores Pakistan’s nuclear ambitions and India’s covert attempts to sabotage them. Created by Gaurav Shukla and directed by Sumit Purohit, the show is set in the 1970s and kicks off with the mysterious death of Indian nuclear scientist, Homi Bhabha. From there, it builds into a high-stakes drama involving spies, double agents, journalists, and personal sacrifices. Here's what the critics and fans have to say about the spy drama.

Saare Jahan Se Accha plot summary

After India’s victory in the 1971 war, Pakistan’s Prime Minister, 'Zulfikar Ali Bhutto' is determined to turn his country into a nuclear power. In response, RAW sends its best agent, ‘Vishnu Shankar’ played by Pratik Gandhi, on a covert mission to Pakistan to gather intel. Disguised as a diplomat, ‘Vishnu’ navigates through political tension, personal dilemmas, and dangerous opponents, particularly ISI chief ‘Murtaza Malik’ played by Sunny Hinduja. The two go head-to-head against one another in the chilling drama.

Saare Jahan Se Accha has sharp writing and real stakes

The series focuses on the human cost of espionage. Each episode ends with tight cliffhangers, making it hard to look away, and you are forced to click on the next episode. The writing team, including Gaurav Shukla, Bhavesh Mandalia, and others, have kept the script grounded while still giving space for dramatic tension and emotional conflict. The 1970s backdrops are recreated with careful details, from the costumes and cars to the phones and geopolitical references, are all picture perfect. 

Pratik Gandhi and Sunny Hinduja are standouts in Saare Jahan Se Accha

Pratik Gandhi plays ‘Vishnu’ with quiet determination, he portrays a spy torn between duty and his collapsing personal life with utmost sincerity but according to the critics, it’s Sunny Hinduja as ‘Murtaza Malik’ who truly steals the show. He brings menace and depth to a character that could have easily been a one-dimensional villain. Suhail Nayyar, Kritika Kamra, and Anup Soni also deliver strong performances that help the narrative.

Realism over spectacle works for Saare Jahan Se Accha

Saare Jahan Se Accha avoids over-the-top theatrics and stays rooted in realism. As per critics, the show doesn’t treat its characters as heroes or villains, or black and white; instead, it shows them as deeply human, with varied emotions, and often as conflicted individuals. The balance between patriotism and moral ambiguity is well maintained, and even the Pakistani characters are given depth and motivation beyond the usual cliched villain arcs.

A rushed ending and some dialogue hamper Saare Jahan Se Accha

Despite a near-flawless first half, the last episode of Saare Jahan Se Accha feels slightly rushed. Critics found few dramatic scenes and lines like ‘baby steps in the world of darkness’ to be too staged or dialogue-heavy. The romance subplot, too, lacks the depth it deserved. ‘Mohini’, played by Tillotama Shome, is underutilised beyond being a plot device to justify ‘Vishnu’s’ cover.

Audience reaction towards Saare Jahan Se Accha

Viewers have widely praised Saare Jahan Se Accha for its gripping storytelling and layered performances. Social media is buzzing with appreciation for the series. A user commented, “Saare Jahan Se Accha is a gripping chessboard of strategy and deception unfolding on an international stage.” and another said “It's a near perfect espionage drama. Don't tell just show.”

Final verdict for Saare Jahan Se Accha: A must-watch for espionage fans

Saare Jahan Se Accha isn’t just another patriotic thriller rooted in action; it’s a mature, intelligent series that treats its audience with respect. With a strong cast and tight writing, this Netflix series proves that spy dramas can be thrilling without being loud. If you're a fan of historically backed thrillers with political weight, this should be at the top of your watchlist for the coming weekend.

What are your thoughts about Saare Jahan Se Accha?

Also Read: 'Tehran' Movie Review, John Abraham, Manushi Chhillar's Espionage Geopolitical Drama, Hit Or Miss?

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