Netflix is set to release its new original series Mandala Murders on July 25. The show mixes Indian mythology with crime and psychological thriller elements.
Created by Mardaani 2 director Gopi Puthran, co-directed by Manan Rawat and backed by YRF Entertainment, the story is set in the eerie town of Charandaspur.
It follows a series of brutal ritual killings that hint at the existence of a secret ancient society.
Vaani Kapoor plays the lead role, supported by actors like Vaibhav Raj Gupta, Surveen Chawla, Shriya Pilgaonkar, Siddhanth Kapoor, Raghubir Yadav, and Monica Choudhary.
As the investigation progresses, the characters uncover dark secrets. They get pulled into a mysterious world of cults, ancient prophecies, and hidden truths. The story blurs the line between myth and reality.
The concept is bold and genre-bending — mixing noir crime with spiritual mysticism — but the casting of Vaani Kapoor has raised eyebrows.
Critics and viewers alike have questioned whether Vaani Kapoor, known more for her glamorous roles, can anchor such a gritty, emotionally demanding series. In the trailer also, it is hard to take her seriously and her acting also appears plastic.
Some online chatter has even pointed out that her “close” friendship with YRF head Aditya Chopra may have influenced her casting, though this is unconfirmed.
Despite this, expectations remain high. Gopi Puthran was praised for the gripping and intense storytelling in Mardaani 2.
With Mandala Murders, he appears to be trying something even more ambitious. The show will explore deep themes like inherited fear and the power of belief systems.
Mandala Murders is part of a growing partnership between Netflix and YRF, following other titles like The Railway Men and Maharaj.
Whether it becomes a hit or gets slammed for casting decisions, it promises to offer something fresh. It could bring a new twist to India’s crowded crime-thriller genre.
Don’t watch this at night. The Mandala Murders trailer is here pic.twitter.com/bHXuq8HFFO
— Netflix India (@NetflixIndia) July 15, 2025
