Amazon Prime Video’s beloved comedy-drama Panchayat returns with its fourth season, premiering on July 2, 2025, and continues to weave its magic with a delightful blend of humor, heart, and rural authenticity. Created by The Viral Fever (TVF), directed by Deepak Kumar Mishra with co-director Akshat Vijaywargiya, and written by Chandan Kumar, this season picks up where the tense cliffhanger of Season 3 left off, diving into the heated Panchayat elections in the fictional village of Phulera, Uttar Pradesh. With its signature grounded storytelling and stellar ensemble cast, Panchayat Season 4 delivers another engaging chapter that balances laughter with poignant social commentary.

Plot: Elections, Emotions, and Evolving Bonds

Season 4 centers on the escalating political rivalry between Pradhan Ji (Raghubir Yadav) and Bhushan Ji (Durgesh Kumar), as the village prepares for a high-stakes Panchayat election. The teaser, which garnered over 2 million views, hinted at the chaos and comedy to come, with Bhushan’s confident “Maza aayega” setting the tone for a battle of wits and strategies. Abhishek Tripathi (Jitendra Kumar), the urban-educated Panchayat secretary, finds himself caught in the crossfire, navigating murky village politics while grappling with personal challenges, including his budding relationship with Rinki (Sanvikaa). The aftermath of Season 3’s attack on Pradhan Ji looms large, adding layers of tension and intrigue to the narrative.

The season explores themes of loyalty, ambition, and community spirit, all while maintaining the show’s hallmark simplicity. From quirky campaign tactics to heartfelt moments of camaraderie, the eight-episode arc strikes a fine balance between situational comedy and emotional depth. The writing shines in its ability to weave social issues—such as gender dynamics and rural governance—into the narrative without feeling preachy.

Performances: A Stellar Ensemble Shines

The returning cast is the heart of Panchayat Season 4. Jitendra Kumar delivers a nuanced performance as Abhishek, capturing his journey from reluctant outsider to a man increasingly invested in Phulera’s quirks. Neena Gupta, as Manju Devi, brings warmth and understated strength, while Raghubir Yadav’s Brij Bhushan Dubey is both endearing and commanding. Durgesh Kumar steals scenes as the scheming Bhushan, his comic timing impeccable. Faisal Malik’s Prahlad, still reeling from Season 3’s emotional weight, adds a layer of gravitas, while Sanvikaa’s Rinki brings a refreshing charm to her evolving arc. Supporting players like Chandan Roy, Sunita Rajwar, and Pankaj Jha elevate the ensemble with their authentic portrayals.

Direction and Craft: Authenticity at Its Core

Director Deepak Kumar Mishra’s commitment to realism remains a standout feature. Shot in a real Panchayat office in Mahodiya, Sehore district, Madhya Pradesh, the series feels lived-in, with every frame exuding rural India’s texture. Mishra’s direction, paired with Amitabha Singh’s cinematography, captures the rustic beauty of Phulera, from dusty lanes to vibrant community gatherings. Anurag Saikia’s soundtrack complements the narrative, blending folk elements with modern sensibilities, while Amit Kulkarni’s editing keeps the pacing crisp yet unhurried, allowing character moments to breathe.

Reception: A Heartwarming Triumph

Panchayat Season 4 has already sparked buzz, building on the show’s IMDb rating of 9.0/10 and its sweep at the inaugural Filmfare OTT Awards for its earlier seasons. Critics and fans alike have praised its ability to stay true to its roots while introducing fresh conflicts. Sreeparna Sengupta of The Times of India lauded the series for its “well-timed dialogues and situations that keep you chuckling,” while Nandini Ramanath of Scroll.in called it a “comedy of mofussil manners.” Social media reactions on platforms like X highlight the excitement, with posts describing the season as “heartwarming” and “a perfect blend of drama and laughs.”

Why Watch?

Panchayat Season 4 is a testament to TVF’s knack for crafting relatable, rewatchable stories. It’s a rare series that finds humor in the mundane while tackling larger themes with subtlety. Whether it’s Abhishek’s exasperation with village bureaucracy, the quirky rivalry between Pradhan and Bhushan, or the tender moments of connection, the show remains a warm hug in a chaotic world. With new characters hinted at and a possible “village cinematic universe” on the horizon, as teased by Mishra, the series continues to evolve while retaining its small-town charm.

Where to Watch

Stream Panchayat Season 4 exclusively on Amazon Prime Video starting July 2, 2025, in Hindi with dubs in Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Kannada. A Prime subscription is required, offering access to this gem alongside other acclaimed originals.

Verdict: 4.5/5

Panchayat Season 4 is a triumphant return, blending humor, heart, and rural realism with effortless grace. It’s a must-watch for fans and newcomers alike, proving that Phulera’s simple stories can resonate universally. As Abhishek navigates elections and emotions, the show reminds us why it’s one of India’s most beloved series. Binge Seasons 1-3 now to catch up before diving into this heartfelt ride.

Disclaimer: This review is based on promotional materials, early reactions, and the series’ established quality, as the full season was not available for screening prior to publication.