Lampan review – Geetanjali Kulkarni's series is a fun ride you would wish to get on

3.5/5

Story:

A little boy named Lampan has just moved out of Pune at the age of 6. He lives with his grandparents, who are based in Belgaum. Now, Lampan experiences a different school life and is expected to adjust to new beginnings.

Review:

Set in Belgaum, Lampan brings in the beautiful culture between Maharashtrians and Kannadigas. Originally from Pune, the lead character Lampan adjusts to newer experiences.

The show commences with the very famous scene from the trailer, with Lampan’s innocent face trying to understand the situation around him. He then goes on to narrate the famous dialogue, which is a great introduction to the show. Cinematography speaks volumes, especially in the scene.

His questions and the expressions Mihir Godbole brings to his face do justice to the very Lampan that Prakash Narayan Sant wanted to convey in his poems.

Geetanjali Kulkarni’s entry into the show is a hilarious yet cute one. She fits in the role of an adorable Maharashtrian grandmother quite well. Her expressions are the highlight of her performance. It is her facial expressions, combined with body language, that work best for her on the show.

The story begins with a cat, and how the feline can cause distance in blood relations. The cause of trouble is revealed soon after.

There are moments in the show where Lampan directly looks into the camera while talking. Given the situation(s), it proves to be pretty impactful.

The series is in the small moments. Director Nipun Dharmadhikari has managed to show us emotions not only with the use of eyes and expressions but also body language and memories. You can imagine how well that works for the show.

The past and present often come together on the show, and they make for the best part of the series, Lampan. The difference between grandparents and children is also pretty evident in the series, and that sets the tone for what's to come on the show. The harsh reality of growing up is beautifully shown in the series through Geetanjali’s character of Ajji (grandmother).

Food is almost like a character on the show. From having dinner table (actually floor) conversations to almost smelling freshly made food, the aspect is almost like a family member to Lampan.

Almost everything in the show is related. Even a simple line by the artist can go on and become a scene on the show, and thus create a beautiful moment.

Imagine if meeting a family member becomes a celebration. Lampan has a Family’s Day, where he is ignored by his own mother. This is even though they have lived separately for a long time now. Things that shouldn't be normal are normalized on the show and in some house somewhere, in real life too.

Lampan’s challenges in childhood will come across as familiar. The world sets on to confuse a child and he portrays that innocence pretty well. What follows is sure to bring a smile on your face.

The series also has a horror/mystery element, which will leave you confused at first. The revelation, on the other hand, is disappointing.

Lampan touches upon the topic of pressure of studies and to perform in school owing to societal pressure. The never-ending debate still remains just that, a debate, which is also mostly one-sided.

The word Mad is used on the show almost in the same context as the novel. It is to express something beyond Lampan’s understanding.

The series further explores how the best and strongest of bonds happen under the most unusual circumstances. Lampan finds a friend in such a situation.

There are small moments in Indian families which become instantly funny. Whether it is men anxiously awaiting a letter or women in matching sarees gossiping unbothered about family's major decisions, there's always something to look forward to.

Unlike the novels, Lampan’s story this time is not limited from 6-12 years. There's a glimpse of his grown-up self too, and it is adorable.

Music and sound, even in minimal, leave a huge impact. They play an important role, especially in a few episodes. The silence amid chaos is especially powerful.

It is often said that regret is stronger than acceptance. The show proves that through various moments, where it is almost too late, or at least in the minds of people affected.

The father-son moment between Lampan and Billusheth is adorable. Lampan, especially since, is something else.

While Lampan and Sumi’s romance is not explored like in the novels, it is subtly conveyed. Their chemistry plays an important part in both his life and the show. With that, one can expect that the makers will release more seasons of the series.

Speaking of actors, Avani Bhave in the role of Sumitra (Sumi) is a delight to watch. Chandrakant Kulkarni, who plays the Ajoba, Raosaheb, is one of the cutest characters on the show. He is the father-figure you hoped to see in Pushkaraj Chirputkar, who plays Lampan’s father, Billusheth. Kadambari Kadam as Lampan's mother, Manu, handles the complexity of her character with grace. While the mystery is never solved, there is an unsaid understanding when it comes to her character, who is a mother of three, out of which two are young daughters.

Verdict:

Lampan has something for everyone. There is at least one episode or scene that will relate to you and not just that, it will stay back, for you might fall in love with what is. From music to food to cinematography, everything works with this show. It’s definitely a worthy watch.