This week not only signifies the conclusion of February 2025 but also heralds the debut of numerous new projects. The most significant release on an over-the-top (OTT) platform this week is on Netflix, featuring one of the platform's standout shows of the year. We are referring to Dabba Cartel, the latest addition to the streaming service, starring Shabana Azmi in the lead role, alongside a talented cast that includes Shalini Pandey, Nimisha Sajayan, Jyothika, Anjali Anand, Gajraj Rao, and Sai Tamhankar. The narrative centers on the underworld, where women operating a tiffin service find themselves compelled to engage in drug trafficking, ultimately ascending to positions of power. The announcement of this show has captivated audiences from the outset.

Dabba Cartel and Its Connection to Once Upon A Time In Mumbai

Dabba Cartel introduces a compelling premise in which women take the reins and demonstrate their capabilities to men. The series, created by Shibani Akhtar and Vishnu Menon and directed by Hitesh Bhatia, is produced by Farhan Akhtar. Although many details about the series have been kept confidential, we have had the opportunity to view it and are aware of its content—rest assured, we will not disclose any spoilers. However, it is intriguing to note that the show has an unexpected connection to the film Once Upon A Time In Mumbai, featuring Ajay Devgn.

The plot follows Raji and Mala, portrayed by Shalini Pandey and Nimisha Sajayan, who are reluctantly drawn into the drug trade. As the cartels begin to dominate their lives, Shaheeda (Anjali Anand) also becomes entangled in their operations. Shabana Azmi plays Baa, who intervenes to turn the tide. Initially, the cartel leader perceives Baa as a frail elderly woman he can easily manipulate, unaware of her true identity. In a crucial moment, she boldly discloses her history, revealing that she once worked for Sultan Mirza and has managed similar transactions on his behalf.

Sultan Mirza, portrayed by Ajay Devgn in the film Once Upon A Time In Mumbai, is a character that has achieved iconic status, drawing inspiration from a real-life gangster. This film continues to be celebrated as one of the most cherished crime dramas. The reference to Sultan Mirza in Dabba Cartel serves as an enjoyable surprise. Although the two works are not directly linked, the similarities between them are intriguing. It is important to note, however, that Sultan Mirza does not make an appearance in the series.

About Dabba Cartel

Raji (Shalini Pandey) operates a tiffin service alongside her househelp and friend, Mala (Nimisha Sajayan). One day, Mala falls victim to her boyfriend's deceit, who coerces her into selling marijuana through their food delivery service. This initial drug transaction leads to a series of others, prompting the cartel to expand and recruit additional women, including Shaheeda (Anjali Anand), Varuna (Jyothika), and Sheela (Shabana Azmi). As the number of participants grows and the drug underworld takes notice, the challenges intensify. The women must now navigate their survival while attempting to expand their business. Will they prevail, or will they be overwhelmed? Watch Dabba Cartel on Netflix to discover the outcome.

Stay connected with Mobile Masala for further updates on this and all other developments in the realm of streaming and cinema.

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