Kankhajura Web Series Review: A Gripping Tale of Revenge and Redemption

Kankhajura: A Tale of Two Brothers

Kankhajura translating to "centipede" in English is an apt metaphor for its protagonist Ashu played by Roshan Mathew. On the surface Ashu appears fragile and harmless but beneath lies a calculated and dangerous mind. The series follows Ashu a young man released from prison after 14 years for a crime he may not have committed. His return to society is anything but smooth as he seeks to reconnect with his elder brother Max (Mohit Raina) a successful real estate tycoon in Goa. However Max’s rejection sets off a chain of events that unravels dark secrets buried resentments and a quest for revenge.

The show adapted from the Israeli series Magpie skillfully weaves Indian cultural nuances into its narrative making it relatable to desi audiences while retaining the psychological depth of the original. With a runtime of approximately 4.5 hours across eight episodes Kankhajura is a slow-burn thriller that prioritizes emotional complexity over high-octane action making it a standout addition to SonyLIV’s repertoire of international adaptations like Your Honor and Tanaav.

A Slow-Burn Revenge Saga

The story begins with Ashu’s release from prison under a covert deal with the police requiring him to act as an informant. Haunted by his past and struggling with a stammer Ashu hopes to rebuild his life with the support of his brother Max. However Max now a polished businessman with a seemingly perfect life wants little to do with his troubled sibling. This rejection fuels Ashu’s desire for vengeance not just against Max but also against those who wronged him in the past including Max’s associates Shardul (Mahesh Shetty) and Pedro (Ninad Kamat).

As Ashu infiltrates Max’s world he employs his manipulative skills to dismantle his brother’s empire. The narrative unfolds in Goa a setting that contrasts its serene beaches with the murky underbelly of real estate mafias and political intrigue. The series explores themes of sibling rivalry betrayal and the long-lasting impact of childhood trauma. While the first few episodes set a gripping pace the latter half occasionally struggles to maintain momentum leading to a climax that feels slightly rushed but emotionally resonant.

Stellar Performances: Roshan Mathew Steals the Show

One of Kankhajura’s biggest strengths is its powerhouse performances, particularly Roshan Mathew’s portrayal of Ashu. Mathew delivers a career-defining performance embodying a character who is both vulnerable and menacing. His ability to balance Ashu’s trauma-induced fragility with his cunning manipulation is nothing short of remarkable. Whether it’s a quiet moment of despair or a calculated act of sabotage Mathew brings depth and nuance making Ashu a character you simultaneously empathize with and fear.

Mohit Raina as Max is equally compelling portraying a man torn between guilt and self-preservation. Raina’s controlled performance provides a perfect counterpoint to Mathew’s intensity creating a dynamic interplay between the brothers. His portrayal of Max’s unraveling confidence as Ashu’s schemes tighten around him is gripping.

The supporting cast adds significant value to the narrative. Sarah Jane Dias as Max’s wife Nisha delivers a heartfelt performance bringing emotional warmth to a story steeped in darkness. Trinetra Haldar as Aimee a trans bakery owner adds a fresh perspective though her character could have been explored further. Heeba Shah’s Inspector Leena Naik is a standout blending toughness with subtle compassion while Usha Nadkarni’s Deshmukh Bai brings gravitas as a formidable local leader. Mahesh Shetty and Ninad Kamat as Shardul and Pedro respectively effectively portray Max’s morally ambiguous allies.

Direction and Cinematography: Goa as a Character

Director Chandan Arora known for films like Main Meri Patni Aur Woh makes a strong comeback with Kankhajura. His direction is measured allowing the characters’ emotional turmoil to take centre stage. Arora’s experience as an editor is evident in the series’ tight pacing especially in the early episodes where tension simmers beneath every interaction. However the narrative occasionally loses focus in the middle episodes with subplots that don’t always tie seamlessly into the main storyline.

Cinematographer Rajeev Ravi deserves praise for capturing Goa in a way that defies its typical postcard image. Instead of sun-soaked beaches we see a Goa of shadows construction sites and hidden secrets. The dusky palette and unhurried camerawork enhance the show’s brooding tone making the setting an integral part of the story. Roby Abraham’s atmospheric score further elevates the experience adding depth to the characters’ emotional arcs.

Writing and Adaptation: A Desi Spin on Magpie

The writing team led by Chandan Arora and Upendra Sidhaye does an admirable job of adapting Magpie for Indian audiences. The series retains the psychological complexity of the original while infusing it with cultural elements like family honour societal expectations and the gritty realities of Goa’s real estate mafia. The dialogue feels authentic with characters speaking in a way that mirrors real-life conversations rather than cinematic monologues. The moral ambiguity of the characters none of whom are entirely good or evil adds depth making Kankhajura a thought-provoking watch.

However the adaptation isn’t flawless. Some subplots such as the political machinations involving Deshmukh Bai feel underdeveloped and certain twists seem predictable especially for viewers familiar with the thriller genre. The climax while emotionally charged feels rushed leaving some character arcs unresolved. Despite these hiccups the writing shines in its exploration of themes like redemption betrayal and the cost of second chances.

Themes and Emotional Depth: A Study in Human Nature

At its core Kankhajura is a story about the fragility of human relationships and the weight of past mistakes. The series delves into the complexities of sibling rivalry with Ashu’s desperate need for Max’s approval driving much of the narrative. It raises poignant questions: Can someone truly change after years of trauma? How far can love and loyalty stretch before they break? These universal themes combined with distinctly Indian sensibilities make the show resonate deeply with desi audiences.

The series also explores emotional manipulation with Ashu’s ability to “play mind games 24/7” serving as both his strength and his downfall. His interactions with characters like Aimee and Nisha highlight his duality a man seeking connection but unable to escape his vengeful instincts. The show’s refusal to paint characters as black-and-white adds a layer of realism making their actions feel both relatable and unsettling.

Is Kankhajura Worth Watching?

Absolutely. Kankhajura is a compelling addition to SonyLIV’s growing library of quality content. It’s not a perfect series but its strengths stellar performances atmospheric storytelling and emotional depth far outweigh its flaws. Fans of psychological thrillers like Your Honor or Tanaav will appreciate its slow-burn intensity while those who enjoy character-driven dramas will find plenty to connect with. Roshan Mathew’s performance alone is worth the watch making Kankhajura a standout web series of 2025.

A Must-Watch for Thriller Fans

Kankhajura is a gripping exploration of family betrayal and redemption wrapped in a psychological thriller that keeps you guessing. While it doesn’t always stick the landing its powerful performances evocative setting and thought-provoking themes make it a worthwhile binge. If you’re looking for a series that combines emotional depth with suspense Kankhajura deserves a spot on your watchlist.