Created and directed by Dushyant Kapoor, the series appears to have a straightforward premise, yet it unfolds with multiple layers and subtle nuances.
Pehla Chakravyuh – CHALAVA is an ambitious and atmospheric Indian web series that attempts something refreshingly different from the usual crime or horror fare on OTT platforms.
At its heart, it’s a supernatural thriller that mixes mystery, folklore, and psychological tension. The story revolves around the transfer of a mysterious prisoner, and soon, strange and deadly events begin to unfold around the officers escorting him. What makes the premise compelling is how it blends Indian rural beliefs, superstition, and myth into a modern narrative about fear and faith. It’s not a typical horror story filled with jump scares rather, it builds dread through silence, lighting, and mood.
The series stands out for its visual appeal. The cinematography by Anand Badoniya is striking, especially for an independent production. The lighting, use of shadows, and rural landscapes create a strong sense of unease and authenticity. DK Films, the independent studio behind the series, deserves credit for achieving such scale and polish on a limited budget.
The atmosphere feels real and grounded —you can almost sense the dust, the darkness, and the tension in every frame. With over 250 million streams across various platforms, Chalava has clearly resonated with audiences, proving that indie storytelling can hold its own in a crowded OTT space.
However, the series isn’t without its flaws. The pacing is one of the biggest issues. It moves slowly, especially in the early episodes, and viewers looking for constant action or fast-moving thrills might find it dragging.
Some dialogues also feel a bit stiff or overly scripted, which occasionally breaks immersion. Character development could have been stronger while the mystery surrounding the “Chalava” is intriguing, several supporting roles feel underwritten or one-dimensional. There are also moments when the limited budget shows, such as with certain props or effects that don’t quite hit the mark.
Overall, I’d rate it around 7 out of 10. It’s not flawless, but it’s bold, visually captivating, and culturally rich. If you enjoy stories that make you think, that explore fear as a reflection of belief, and that take their time to build tension, Pehla Chakravyuh – CHALAVA is absolutely worth watching.
Hatts of to the director, It’s a promising example of how Indian creators can use local mythology and rural realism to craft genuinely unsettling and thought-provoking stories.
Beyond the Cinema's 