“Mandala Murders” on Netflix sets up as a dark crime thriller in a creepy little town filled with cults, rituals and the shadow of an ancient god. The story follows Rea (Vaani Kapoor), a sharp detective, and Vikram (Vaibhav Raj Gupta), a troubled ex-cop, as they investigate a string of brutal murders that slowly reveal ties to a dangerous cult.

The show captures the atmosphere well with unnatural temples, unsettling visuals and a constant feeling that something bad is about to happen. The cast really stands out, too, with Vaani Kapoor bringing intensity, Vaibhav Raj Gupta delivering a layered performance and Surveen Chawla adding intrigue with a character who keeps you guessing because her character is written with deliberate ambiguity and you’re never quite sure where her loyalties lie or what she’s truly after.

At times, the series feels like it’s trying to juggle too much. There are so many ideas, symbols and side characters that it can get confusing. The middle part drags a little and it only picks up a compelling pace toward the end, which might test some viewers’ patience.

The finale builds suspense and ends on a chilling note, while leaving the door open for more in the next season. 

Mandala Murders can be compared to American shows like True Detective for its gritty murder mystery and cult themes, The Outsider for blending crime investigation with supernatural horror and Archive 81 for its dark rituals and mythological undertones. It also shares a psychological intensity with Hannibal and a surreal small-town eeriness with Twin Peaks.

Overall, the mix of mystery, mythology and its dark setting makes “Mandala Murders” an engaging watch. It feels fresh and different, and despite its flaws, it’s a show that keeps you hooked.

Edited by Jeremy Ford and Bidhya Sapkota