The Hunt: The Rajiv Gandhi Assassination Case on SonyLIV is a meticulously crafted crime thriller that explores the 1991 assassination of former Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and the intense 90-day investigation that followed. Directed by Nagesh Kukunoor and based on Anirudhya Mitra’s non-fiction book Ninety Days, the series stands apart for its commitment to realism and procedural detail, avoiding sensationalism in favor of an authentic retelling rooted in documented fact.
Narrative and Structure
The series plunges viewers straight into the aftermath of the bombing in Sriperumbudur, Tamil Nadu, presenting the investigation as a high-stakes procedural drama rather than a mere whodunit. It leverages a unique storytelling angle, emphasizing the “how-did-they-find-them” aspect as Indian agencies race against time to track down the LTTE operatives responsible. Nearly 70% of the dialogue is in Tamil, lending linguistic and cultural authenticity to the setting, though it may require more focus from non-Tamil-speaking audiences.
Performances and Direction
Amit Sial delivers a nuanced performance as D.R. Kaarthikeyan, the Special Investigation Team chief, leading a talented ensemble including Sahil Vaid, Bagavathi Perumal, and Girish Sharma. The characters are portrayed with restraint and depth, eschewing melodrama for the genuine pressures and frustrations of a real-world investigation: missed leads, bureaucratic red tape, political interference, and immense public expectations.
Tone and Style
Nagesh Kukunoor’s direction is lean and coherent. Rather than dramatizing grief or glorifying patriotism, the series lets the facts — and their grave consequences — speak for themselves. The investigation’s step-by-step methodical process, from analyzing forensic evidence to chasing leads across states, is depicted with gritty detail and narrative suspense, keeping audiences engaged.
Historical Context and Accuracy
Anchored in factual history and supported by documentary-style elements, archival footage, and careful recreations, the show paints a comprehensive picture of the political dynamics between India and the LTTE that set the stage for Gandhi’s killing. The motivations behind the assassination are explored through the lens of both the investigators and the perpetrators, balancing sensitive material without compromising on truthfulness.
Critical Reception
Critics have praised the series for:
Its focused, fearless approach to storytelling
Absence of star-driven theatrics, letting the narrative and performances drive the tension
A script that avoids cinematic clichés in favor of professional, realistic dialogue
High production values and strong ensemble cast performances
Conclusion
The Hunt: The Rajiv Gandhi Assassination Case is a compelling and powerful addition to India’s true-crime genre. It is recommended viewing for those interested in political history, investigative drama, and fact-based storytelling. The series excels at providing a ringside view of one of India’s most defining investigative operations, balancing intensity, respect, and journalistic rigor without succumbing to sensationalism.
OTT Release Rating: 4/5
