'Jai Mahendran' review: Light-hearted take on government office politics

There is a general impression about government offices – long queues, dusty files and uncooperative officers. The web series 'Jai Mahendran' directed by Sreekanth Mohan draws upon this and focuses on a couple of government employees who would rather sit in a stuffy office room rather than lift a finger to sign an application.

The theme of the show created by Rahul Riji Nair is refreshing given that most Malayalam web series in recent times have been focusing on crime and family dramas. 'Jai Mahendran' steered by an in-form Saiju Kurup sheds light on the functioning of government offices in a humorous way. Saiju plays deputy tahsildar Mahendran of Palazhikkulam taluk, who has more political ambition than integrity. His cockiness, however, is short-lived when a new tahsildar Sobha (Suhasini) takes charge. Politics and corruption are also themes  that are explored in the series, which is now streaming on SonyLiv.

Rahul, who has written the dialogues, attempts some good humour, especially in the scenes involving Mahendran and Balu (played by Rahul himself). Balu is Mahendran's yes-man and follows his instructions blindly. Though the characters share a good chemistry, the story picks up only when Sobha comes into the picture. Sobha and Mahendran are two people who are completely at odds with each other. While Mahendran is willing to turn a blind eye to rules for his personal and political gains, Sobha is a highly enthusiastic, upright officer.

Though Sobha's character had lot of potential, it loses steam midway. The story also changes track in between, which affects the smooth narrative. Saiju's mannerisms are perfect and he does justice to his character. Suhasini, who was last seen in Malayalam in Ganesh Raj's 'Pookkaalam' also plays her role effectively, though she could have benefited with more screen space. Miya George as Mahendran's wife, Sidhartha Siva, Suresh Krishna were also in their element.

The cinematography by Prasanth Raveendran and editing by Christy Sebastian elevate this screenplay-driven series. Music by Sidhartha Pradeep takes a backseat in 'Jai Mahendran' though the title track is catchy and perfectly captures the mood of the series. Overall, 'Jai Mahendran' is a realistic, light-hearted take on government office politics that works in parts.