Gullak – A Heartwarming Tale of a Middle-Class Family
Gullak, a web series on SonyLIV, is a refreshing and delightful show that captures the everyday life of a middle-class family in India. Created by TVF (The Viral Fever), the series focuses on the Mishra family and their simple yet meaningful journey.
The story revolves around four main characters: Santosh Mishra (the father), Shanti Mishra (the mother), and their two sons, Annu and Aman. The show takes us through their struggles, dreams, and little joys, all of which resonate with every Indian household. It’s not about grand events but about small moments that bring a smile or a tear.
Trailer (Season 1)
Trailer (Season 2)
Trailer (Season 3)
Trailer (Season 4)
Relatable Characters
Each member of the Mishra family has a unique personality, making them feel real and relatable. Santosh Mishra, the father, is a government employee who tries to balance the family’s finances with his modest salary. Shanti Mishra, the mother, is the backbone of the family, managing the household with her sharp wit and loving nature. Annu, the elder son, is ambitious yet impatient, while Aman, the younger one, is studious but often caught in the middle of family squabbles.
Their interactions feel so genuine that you can’t help but see reflections of your own family in them. The sibling rivalry, the parents’ concern for their children’s future, and the small arguments that quickly turn into laughter – all of it feels like home.
What is Gullak About?
Gullak revolves around the Mishra family, a middle-class household living in a small town in India. The family consists of four members:
Santosh Mishra – The father, who works in a government office. He is practical and sometimes strict but has a soft heart.
Shanti Mishra – The mother, who is the backbone of the family. She is loving, caring, and often funny with her witty remarks.
Annu Mishra – The elder son, who is preparing for competitive exams. He dreams big but often clashes with his parents.
Aman Mishra – The younger son, who is still in school. He is mischievous but smart and often becomes the peacemaker.
Each episode of Gullak is like a chapter from their lives, filled with humor, emotions, and life lessons.
Why Gullak Feels So Real
One of the reasons Gullak stands out is its relatability. If you have grown up in a middle-class Indian family, you will see glimpses of your own life in the Mishras’ story. From budget constraints to sibling fights, from parents’ sacrifices to everyday struggles, the series portrays it all with authenticity.
The small details, like sharing a single fan during a power cut or the mother’s constant effort to save money, make the series incredibly real. The creators have done a wonderful job of capturing the essence of a typical Indian household.
The Storytelling Style
Gullak is narrated by a gullak (a piggy bank), which adds a unique touch to the storytelling. The narrator not only describes the events but also gives us insights into the family’s emotions and thoughts. This creative narration makes the series even more engaging.
The series does not have a conventional storyline. Instead, it is a collection of incidents from the Mishra family’s life. Each episode focuses on a particular event or issue, such as repairing a cooler, attending a wedding, or dealing with a neighbor. These everyday situations might seem ordinary, but Gullak turns them into meaningful and entertaining stories.
Key Themes in Gullak
1. Family Bonding
The strongest theme in Gullak is the bond between family members. Despite their arguments and differences, the Mishras stand by each other. Whether it’s celebrating small victories or facing challenges together, their love and support shine through.
2. Middle-Class Struggles
The series highlights the struggles of a middle-class family, from managing finances to fulfilling dreams. It shows how families often prioritize needs over wants and make sacrifices for each other.
3. Humor in Everyday Life
Gullak finds humor in the simplest of situations. The witty dialogues and light-hearted moments make you smile and sometimes laugh out loud. The humor is clean and family-friendly, making it enjoyable for viewers of all ages.
4. Life Lessons
Each episode of Gullak leaves you with a subtle life lesson. Whether it’s about valuing relationships, appreciating what you have, or finding happiness in small things, the series has a lot to teach without being preachy.
Memorable Episodes
1. Batti Aunty Ki Chawanni
This episode is about a borrowed quarter-rupee coin and how it creates tension in the Mishra household. It highlights the importance of trust and honesty in relationships.
2. Tyohaar
In this episode, the Mishras prepare for a festival. It beautifully portrays the excitement and chaos that festivals bring to a middle-class family.
3. Saparivaar
This episode focuses on family dynamics and how the Mishras resolve their differences. It’s a heartwarming reminder of the strength of family bonds.
The Cast and Their Performances
The cast of Gullak deserves special mention for their outstanding performances:
Jameel Khan as Santosh Mishra perfectly captures the essence of a middle-class father.
Geetanjali Kulkarni as Shanti Mishra steals the show with her natural acting and impeccable comic timing.
Vaibhav Raj Gupta as Annu Mishra brings depth to the character of an ambitious yet frustrated elder son.
Harsh Mayar as Aman Mishra is delightful as the mischievous younger son.
Their chemistry makes the Mishra family feel real and relatable.
Why You Should Watch Gullak
Relatable Content: If you want to watch something that feels close to home, Gullak is the perfect choice.
Feel-Good Vibes: The series has a warm and positive vibe that leaves you feeling happy and content.
Short and Sweet: With episodes around 20-25 minutes long, it’s a quick and enjoyable watch.
No Drama, Just Life: Unlike typical TV dramas, Gullak focuses on the simplicity of everyday life.
Conclusion
Gullak is more than just a web series; it’s a slice of life. It’s about the moments that make a house a home, the laughter that makes struggles bearable, and the love that keeps families together. If you haven’t watched Gullak yet, add it to your list. It’s a heartfelt journey that will leave you with a smile and maybe even a tear.
So, grab some chai, sit with your family, and enjoy this beautiful series on SonyLIV. Let Gullak remind you of the value of family, the beauty of simplicity, and the joy hidden in the little things.