Exclusive !exclusive!: Choona 2023 Web Series

Released on September 29, 2023, Netflix India ’s Choona is a high-stakes heist comedy that trades the high-tech gadgets of Money Heist for raw political grit and heavy doses of astrology.

Directed by Pushpendra Nath Misra, this 8-episode series dives deep into the heartland of Uttar Pradesh, where power isn’t just about votes—it's about how the stars align. The Plot: A "Desi" Heist for Revenge

The story centers on Avinash Shukla (played by Jimmy Shergill), a ruthless, superstitious politician nicknamed "Calculator" for his conniving mind. Obsessed with planetary alignments and Vastu, Shukla is on the verge of toppling the current government to become the next Chief Minister.

However, his path to power is littered with people he has wronged. An unlikely group of six "misfits"—each representing a "planet" in opposition to Shukla's horoscope—teams up to pull off an audacious ₹600 crore heist from his heavily fortified party office. Key Cast and Characters

The series features a powerhouse ensemble that brings the quirky world of Choona to life:

Blog Title: Choona 2023 Web Series Review: A Hilarious Heist with a Political Punch (Netflix Exclusive) choona 2023 web series exclusive

Meta Description: Netflix’s Choona is a quirky, politically charged heist comedy that blends luck, astrology, and revenge. Read our exclusive deep dive into the cast, plot, and why you should watch it.

If you’re tired of the same old serious crime dramas and predictable heist plots, Netflix’s 2023 Indian gem, Choona, is about to be your new favorite binge.

Directed by Pushpendra Nath Misra (known for Gullak and TVF Pitchers), Choona isn’t just a show—it’s a chaotic, colorful, and cleverly hilarious ride. Here’s everything you need to know about this exclusive Netflix series.

The Plot: Astrology, Anger, and a Grand Scheme

The story centers on Shukla Ji (played brilliantly by the late, great Jimmy Sheirgill), a tyrannical and superstitious politician who believes the stars control his fate. He has wronged a group of six very different people—a disgraced astrologer, a small-time thief, a boxer, a contractor, a dancer, and a clerk.

When they discover they share a common enemy, they hatch a plan not just to rob him, but to destroy his ego. Their weapon? Astrology. They manipulate his blind faith in planetary positions to trap him in a web of bad luck and bad decisions, all leading to one massive bank heist. Released on September 29, 2023 , Netflix India

What is ‘Choona’ About? A Plot That Defies Convention

At first glance, Choona seems like a standard underdog story. A mismatched group of losers plans a massive heist against a powerful, corrupt politician. But the devil—and the delight—is in the details.

The story revolves around Shukla Ji (played brilliantly by Jimmy Sheirgill), an arrogant and ruthless politician who has swindled, crushed, and humiliated several ordinary citizens. His victims include a disgraced astrologer, a disgruntled former employee, a struggling small-time crook, and a few other "nobodies."

The twist? The group decides to use Astrology as their weapon. When the megalomaniac Shukla Ji becomes obsessed with planetary alignments and auspicious timings, the gang manipulates his superstitions to orchestrate the perfect "Choona" (a Hindi slang term meaning "deception" or "getting cheated").

The show masterfully balances two timelines: the meticulous planning of the heist and the hilarious, often chaotic, backstories of how each member was wronged by the politician.

The Verdict: Is it Worth the Hype?

Yes—with a small asterisk.

If you need strict logical coherence and hyper-realistic heist mechanics (like Andhadhun or Special Ops), Choona might frustrate you. The plot relies heavily on coincidences and the sheer stupidity of the antagonist.

However, if you want to laugh, enjoy sharp social commentary on caste and power dynamics without a lecture, and watch a group of losers turn into accidental heroes, Choona is a must-watch.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5) – A smart, silly, and satisfying binge.

Style & Direction

• Visual style leans on high-contrast lighting and stylized flashbacks to reveal character backstories.
• Pacing alternates between brisk comedic setups and taut, suspenseful sequences during the heist's execution.
• Soundtrack mixes contemporary electronic beats with regional motifs to underscore mood shifts.

6. Should You Watch It? (Final Recommendation)

Watch Choona if you enjoy:

• Slow-burn heist thrillers like A Fish Called Wanda or Lupin.
• Dark comedies with political satire (similar to Panchayat or Mirzapur but less violent).
• Strong ensemble character work over fast-paced action.
• Jimmy Sheirgill in villainous yet comic roles.

Skip it if:

• You need high-octane action every episode.
• You dislike astrology or superstition as a plot device.
• You prefer tight, 8-hour movie-style pacing (this meanders).

Why ‘Choona’ Stands Out in 2023’s Web Series Lineup

Released in a year flooded with sequels and predictable rom-coms, Choona took risks. Here is why critics and audiences celebrated it: