Actor Jyotika believes that there is a significant lack of stories told from the female perspective. At the trailer launch of Dabba Cartel, she emphasized how the series presents a fresh take on women’s struggles, both as homemakers and as individuals navigating the outside world.

A Conscious Shift Towards Stronger Roles

Jyotika, known for films like Doli Saja Ke Rakhna, Chandramukhi, and Kaakha Kaakha, stated that her transition from love-interest roles to complex characters was intentional. “My shift happened when I was 27. Now at 45, I have made a conscious effort to take on stronger roles. I think it’s very much required,” she said.

The Story of ‘Dabba Cartel‘

The upcoming Netflix series follows five ordinary women whose small-scale dabba service unexpectedly turns into a high-stakes drug operation. Alongside Jyotika, the cast includes Shabana Azmi, Nimisha Sajayan, Shalini Pandey, Anjali Anand, Sai Tamhankar, and Lillete Dubey.

Jyotika’s Role as Varuna

In the series, Jyotika plays Varuna, an ambitious married woman grappling with internal and external struggles. “Varuna had something deeper inside her. These complications are important, and they reflect the reality of many women’s lives. That’s what attracted me to the character,” she shared.

Sharing the Screen with Shabana Azmi

The actor also expressed her admiration for veteran star Shabana Azmi. She revealed that working with Azmi significantly improved her craft. “Just standing with her and observing her as an actor has made me better. When I saw myself in the same frame as her during dubbing, I had goosebumps,” Jyotika admitted.

Farhan Akhtar on Strong Female Characters

Farhan Akhtar, the producer of Dabba Cartel, stressed the importance of portraying strong female voices in entertainment. “It’s crucial to have well-written female characters who aren’t just discussing men or household problems. They have careers, ambitions, and lives that can inspire future generations,” he said.

The Vision Behind ‘Dabba Cartel’

Akhtar credited his wife, co-creator Shibani Akhtar, for bringing the story to life. “At Excel Entertainment, we believe in telling all kinds of stories. When Shibani pitched this idea, there was no way I could say no. We just hoped for the right talent to bring it to life,” he added.

Shabana Azmi’s Initial Reservations About Jyotika

In a surprising revelation, Shabana Azmi admitted that she initially wanted Jyotika to be replaced in Dabba Cartel. “I have to confess, I tried to remove her. But I’m grateful that she stayed because it was my mistake,” Azmi said at the trailer launch.

A ‘Ghar Ka Maamla’ for Shabana Azmi

The veteran actor humorously remarked that she had no choice but to join Dabba Cartel, as it was produced by her stepson Farhan Akhtar and co-created by her stepdaughter-in-law Shibani Akhtar. “It was a family matter, and I had no say in refusing,” she joked.

Working with Younger Actors

Azmi also spoke about working with a younger cast. She noted that initially, new actors approach her with hesitation, but they soon become comfortable. “They realize there’s nothing to be nervous about, and sometimes I even have to remind them, ‘I’m your senior, behave yourself!’” she laughed.

The Impact of Casting Directors in Hindi Cinema

Shabana Azmi acknowledged the changing landscape of Hindi cinema, crediting casting directors for introducing fresh faces and breaking away from stock characters. She recalled how in older films, actors could get away with inauthentic portrayals, but today’s performers are expected to be more genuine.

The Evolution of Indian Actors

Azmi cited Rishi Kapoor’s performance in Karz as an example of how authenticity in acting has evolved. “Back then, actors could get away with pretending to play instruments. Today, an actor wouldn’t dare to fake it—they would take the challenge and learn,” she said, highlighting the growth of both male and female actors in the industry.

‘Dabba Cartel’ Premiere Date

Netflix’s Dabba Cartel is set to premiere on February 28, 2025. The series promises a thrilling mix of drama, crime, and strong female storytelling.