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“Magic sikhaya ni jata, asli jaadu jaadugar ke andar hota hai."
Our Ishi Ma aka Divyanka Tripathi has taken over the OTT platform with her latest show The Magic of Shiri. The 10-episode slice-of-life drama is currently streaming on JioCinema Premium and explores the life of Shiri Shah, a housewife who dares to chase her childhood dream of becoming a magician. With the promising combination of Divyanka Tripathi in the lead role, Jaaved Jaaferi as the mysterious mentor, and Namit Das in a supporting role, the series brings together magic, emotional depth, and empowering life lessons.
The Magic Of Shiri: Plot
Set in the early 2000s, The Magic of Shiri introduces Shiri Shah, a cheerful and playful housewife who is not just confined to the kitchen and domestic duties. Shiri has an unusual passion for magic, which she performs for her kids using self-taught tricks. The story takes an intriguing turn when Shiri gets an opportunity to learn magic professionally and perform before an audience. Enter Salim Jaadugar (Jaaved Jaaferi), a seasoned magician who becomes Shiri’s mentor and instils in her the belief that “Real magic cannot be taught, it is within the magician.”
However, Shiri’s journey isn’t as smooth as it seems. As she attempts to juggle family expectations and societal pressures, she faces the universal struggles that many working women encounter when trying to pursue their ambitions. The series beautifully illustrates the challenges of balancing personal dreams with societal norms, making Shiri's journey resonate deeply with viewers.
The Magic Of Shiri: Performances
Divyanka Tripathi's portrayal of Shiri is undoubtedly the heart of the series. Her performance is both charming and empowering, showcasing the emotional depth of a woman who dares to dream beyond her domestic role. In the show, one of the standout lines, "Haan ye circus hai par main yaha ki joker nahi hun, main ring master hun yaha ki," (Yes, this is a circus, but I am not a joker here, I am the ringmaster), is delivered with perfect conviction.
Alongside Divyanka, Jaaved Jaaferi brings nuance to the role of Salim, Shiri’s mentor, who serves as a beacon of wisdom and encouragement. His experience as a magician and his past connection to Shiri's family adds layers to his character, especially as he imparts life lessons about perseverance and self-belief. The chemistry between him and Divyanka is one of the highlights of the show, offering both heartwarming and thought-provoking moments.
Namit Das as Naveen, Shiri’s estranged husband, provides a contrasting character who represents the traditional expectations of a man in a patriarchal society. His eventual return complicates Shiri’s journey, further exploring the tension between family duties and personal ambition.
Additionally, seasoned actors like Neelu Kohli, Parmeet Sethi, and Darshan Jariwala make significant contributions, playing pivotal roles that enrich the narrative and support Shiri's journey of self-empowerment.
The Magic Of Shiri: Direction
Directed by Birsa Dasgupta, The Magic of Shiri has a distinct charm, balancing light-hearted humour with emotional drama. The series is visually appealing, with a retro aesthetic that transports viewers to the early 2000s. The magic tricks, although subtle, add a layer of whimsy, making the series both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Final Verdict
In a nutshell, The Magic of Shiri is a delightful and heartwarming series that explores themes of self-discovery, the pursuit of dreams, and the magic that resides within all of us.