“Auto Shankar” is a Tamil-language crime thriller web series that premiered on ZEE5 in 2019. The series is based on the real-life story of Gowri Shankar, infamously known as Auto Shankar, who was a notorious criminal in Chennai during the late 1980s. The show delves into his life of crime, exploring his rise in the underworld and the subsequent consequences of his actions.
Main Cast:
- Sarath Kumar as Gowri Shankar (Auto Shankar): Sarath Kumar delivers a compelling performance as the titular character, portraying the complexities of a man who evolves from a small-time auto driver to a dreaded gangster. His portrayal captures the charisma and menace that defined Auto Shankar’s persona.
- Swayam Siddha as Chandrika: Swayam Siddha plays Chandrika, a cabaret dancer who becomes romantically involved with Shankar. Her character adds depth to the narrative, showcasing the personal side of Shankar’s tumultuous life.
- Saranya Ravi as Sumathi: Saranya Ravi portrays Sumathi, whose interactions with Shankar highlight the impact of his criminal activities on those around him. Her performance brings an emotional dimension to the series.
- Vasudha Krishnamoorthy as Lalitha: Vasudha Krishnamoorthy plays Lalitha, adding to the ensemble with a character that reflects the societal backdrop against which Shankar’s story unfolds.
- Selva Pandian as Mohan: Selva Pandian’s portrayal of Mohan contributes to the depiction of the criminal underworld in Chennai, providing insight into the networks that facilitated Shankar’s rise.
- Arjun Chidambaram as Kathiravan: Arjun Chidambaram plays Kathiravan, a police officer determined to bring Shankar to justice. His character represents the law enforcement perspective, adding tension to the cat-and-mouse dynamic of the series.
- Rajesh Dev as Babu: Rajesh Dev’s role as Babu further enriches the narrative, depicting the various facets of Shankar’s operations and the individuals entangled in his web of crime.
Series Overview:
“Auto Shankar” spans ten episodes, each with a runtime of approximately 30 minutes. The series meticulously chronicles Shankar’s descent into the criminal underworld, his involvement in illicit activities such as bootlegging and prostitution, and the eventual crackdown by law enforcement leading to his arrest and conviction. Set against the backdrop of Chennai between 1985 and 1995, the show provides a gritty portrayal of the city’s underbelly during that era.
Themes and Reception:
The series delves into themes of power, corruption, and the socio-economic factors that contribute to a life of crime. It also explores the psychological aspects of Shankar’s character, offering viewers a nuanced understanding of his motivations and the consequences of his actions. Critics have praised “Auto Shankar” for its authentic depiction of real events, compelling storytelling, and strong performances, particularly by Sarath Kumar. The show’s production values, including its cinematography and period-accurate set design, have also been commended for immersing viewers in the 1980s Chennai milieu.
Availability:
“Auto Shankar” is available for streaming on ZEE5, a digital entertainment platform offering a wide range of Indian content. The series is accessible to subscribers and can be viewed with English subtitles, making it available to a broader audience beyond Tamil-speaking viewers.
Conclusion:
“Auto Shankar” stands out as a significant addition to the Indian web series landscape, offering a gripping narrative based on true events. The series provides insight into the life of one of Chennai’s most notorious criminals, brought to life by a talented cast and meticulous production. For viewers interested in crime dramas rooted in real-life stories, “Auto Shankar” delivers a compelling and thought-provoking experience.
Hina Abbasi is Editor and a passionate sports and entertainment content writer at WinnersMaze.com. Hina’s expertise spans across a wide range of sports, and interest in many TV shows allowing her to deliver insightful analysis and compelling stories that resonate with readers.