Rating: ⭐⭐⭐½ (3.5/5)
Sivarapalli, the Telugu remake of Panchayat, follows the journey of Shyam Prasad (Rag Mayur), an engineering graduate who unwillingly takes up the job of a Panchayat Secretary in the remote village of Sivarapalli. While dreaming of clearing the GMAT and moving to the USA, he struggles to adjust to rural life, only to slowly develop an unexpected connection with the place and its people.
Story & Direction
For those familiar with Panchayat, Sivarapalli feels like a scene-by-scene recreation rather than a unique adaptation. Director Bhaskhar Maurya, known for Muthayya, plays it safe, ensuring the feel-good nature of the original remains intact. The show effectively captures the simplicity of village life in Telangana, highlighting the struggles, humor, and heartwarming moments of rural governance. However, it doesn’t take any creative risks or add a fresh regional touch, which could have made it stand out.
Performances
Rag Mayur as Shyam Prasad delivers a decent performance, convincingly portraying an aimless yet ambitious youngster caught between his government job and bigger dreams. The supporting cast, featuring a mix of seasoned and new actors, does a commendable job of bringing the villagers to life. While the performances feel natural, they sometimes lack the charm and chemistry that made Panchayat so special.
Cinematography & Music
The visuals capture the rustic beauty of Telangana well, with picturesque landscapes and a vibrant rural atmosphere. The cinematography does justice to the setting, making Sivarapalli feel both real and relatable. The background score is subtle and pleasant but doesn’t leave a lasting impact.
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What Works & What Doesn’t
✅ Authentic rural setting – The show beautifully captures the quirks of village life.
✅ Simple yet engaging storytelling – Keeps the narrative light and relatable.
✅ Strong supporting cast – The villagers bring warmth and humor to the series.
❌ Too close to the original – Offers little new for those who have seen Panchayat.
❌ Lack of originality – A more Telugu-specific adaptation could have added freshness.
❌ Predictable storytelling – Doesn’t surprise or engage beyond its familiar beats.
Final Verdict
Sivarapalli is a well-made but overly safe remake of Panchayat. It retains the charm of the original but doesn’t bring anything new to the table. If you haven’t seen Panchayat, you might enjoy its simplicity and humor. But for those who have, this version may feel like a déjà vu experience without much added flavor.
Watch it if you love lighthearted, feel-good rural dramas. But don’t expect anything beyond what you already know.