Review: ‘Gram Chikitsalay’ gets it right in its second season

"Gram Chikitsalay," the second season of the Prime Video series produced by The Viral Fever (TVF), has been widely praised for its nuanced storytelling and character development. Following the debut of the first season in 2025, which drew comparisons to TVF's earlier hit "Panchayat," the new season continues the narrative of Prabhat, played by Amol Parashar, a young man from a wealthy family in Delhi who opts to work as a medical officer at a primary health center in Bhatkandi village, Jharkhand. Unlike the initial season, which focused heavily on Prabhat's efforts to bring order to a dysfunctional health center, the second season delves deeper into the personal growth of its lead character and the challenges faced by the local community.

Set in a rural setting, the series explores the contrast between urban ideals and the realities of life in small villages. Prabhat, despite his privileged background, is determined to serve in a place where healthcare access is limited. His journey begins with overcoming the resistance of the villagers, who prefer the services of a local figure known as "jholawala" Chetak, portrayed by Vinay Pathak. Chetak, though lacking formal qualifications, understands the nuances of rural life and has gained the trust of the locals. In the first season, Prabhat had to deal with issues ranging from evicting a farmer who had occupied the health center's premises to training his staff—compounder Phutani, ward boy Govind, and cleaner Dhelu—in professional conduct.

The second season sees Prabhat making progress in transforming the health center, albeit with continued challenges. He forms a bond with Dr. Gargi, played by Akansha Ranjan Kapoor, and together they begin to attract more patients, including some unusual cases. Despite these developments, Prabhat remains idealistic and somewhat rigid in his approach, often seen cycling around the village while wearing a helmet, highlighting his adherence to rules and regulations.

The narrative also addresses broader societal issues, particularly through the character of Govind, who struggles to secure a permanent position at the health center. His need to pay bribes, either in cash or in kind, introduces themes of corruption within the system. These elements provide a critical commentary on the bureaucratic hurdles faced by individuals trying to navigate the Indian healthcare landscape.

With a total of five episodes, the second season is directed by Lalitam Tiwari and written by Vaibhav Suman and Shreya Srivastava. It builds upon the foundation laid in the first season, offering more depth to its characters and enhancing the comedic elements. The show's creators, Deepak Kumar Mishra and Arunabh Kumar, have crafted a storyline that not only entertains but also engages with real-world problems.

Notably, the series has introduced new characters and scenarios that resonate with the audience, such as a woman ostracized as a witch and a pregnant woman who places her faith in Prabhat. These storylines contribute to the emotional depth of the series and highlight the complexities of rural life. Additionally, two characters from "Panchayat" appear in "Gram Chikitsalay," suggesting the potential for a larger TVF Rural Universe.

As the series progresses, Prabhat's evolution becomes evident. While he initially clung to strict principles, he learns to adapt and compromise, thanks in part to Dr. Gargi's influence. This transformation indicates that if a third season is planned, Prabhat might become less inflexible and more attuned to the realities of his environment.

The success of "Gram Chikitsalay" season 2 is partly attributed to the strong performances of its cast, including Parashar, Dwivedi, Makhija, and Garima Vikrant Singh, who plays the nurse. Their chemistry contributes significantly to the show's appeal. Furthermore, the timely release of the second season, shortly after the first, ensures continuity and keeps the audience engaged with the evolving narratives of its characters. As the series moves forward, it promises to continue exploring the intersection of personal ambition and communal responsibility in rural India.