In the annals of modern history, few events have shaken India as profoundly as the assassination of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi on May 21, 1991. The Sony LIV series *The Hunt: The Rajiv Gandhi Assassination Case*, inspired by Anirudhya Mitra’s book *Ninety Days: The True Story of the Hunt for Rajiv Gandhi’s Assassins*, brings this pivotal moment to life with a blend of historical fidelity, suspense, and emotional depth. Directed by Nagesh Kukunoor, this eight-episode series offers a compelling look at one of the most audacious manhunts in global history, making it accessible and engaging for audiences worldwide.
A Nation Shattered
The series opens with the chilling moment that changed India forever: the suicide bombing that killed Rajiv Gandhi, India’s youngest prime minister, during an election campaign rally in Sriperumbudur, Tamil Nadu. A female assassin, later identified as Thenmozhi Rajaratnam (alias Dhanu), detonated an explosive belt, killing Gandhi and 15 others. The attack, orchestrated by the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE), a Sri Lankan militant group, was a brutal act of retribution for India’s involvement in the Sri Lankan Civil War.
The Hunt doesn’t dwell solely on the assassination but instead focuses on the relentless 90-day investigation that followed, led by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) under the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). The series meticulously captures the urgency and complexity of tracking down an elusive network of conspirators across India and beyond, offering a window into a case that stunned the world with its scale and audacity.
A Tense and Focused Narrative
Nagesh Kukunoor, known for his nuanced storytelling, strikes a balance between procedural drama and human emotion. The series avoids sensationalism, instead presenting a grounded narrative that respects the gravity of the events. It follows the SIT, headed by the determined D.R. Karthikeyan (played with quiet intensity by Ashutosh Rana), as they piece together clues from the crime scene, including a camera that captured the final moments before the blast. This pivotal piece of evidence—a photograph showing the bomber approaching Gandhi—sets the investigation in motion.
The show excels in depicting the investigative process: from forensic analysis to interrogations and international coordination with Sri Lankan authorities. It highlights the challenges faced by the SIT, including political pressures, logistical hurdles, and the sheer audacity of the LTTE’s network. Yet, it never loses sight of the human cost, weaving in the grief of Gandhi’s family and the nation without resorting to melodrama.
Stellar Performances and Authentic Storytelling
The ensemble cast delivers powerful performances. Ashutosh Rana anchors the series as Karthikeyan, portraying a dogged investigator whose calm exterior belies his relentless pursuit of justice. Supporting roles, including those of Tamil actors like Pawan Chopra and Abhishek, bring authenticity to the South Indian setting, with dialogue in Tamil and Hindi adding cultural texture. The series also portrays the LTTE operatives, including mastermind Sivarasan (the “one-eyed jack”), with nuance, avoiding caricature while showing their calculated ruthlessness.
Based on Mitra’s book, the screenplay stays true to the documented facts, drawing from declassified reports and firsthand accounts. The series doesn’t shy away from the geopolitical complexities, such as India’s controversial role in the Sri Lankan conflict through the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF). For international viewers, these elements are explained simply, ensuring the context is clear without overwhelming the narrative.
Cinematic Craftsmanship
Visually, *The Hunt* is understated yet effective. The cinematography captures the humid, chaotic atmosphere of Tamil Nadu in the early 1990s, with tight shots and muted colors amplifying the tension. The pacing is deliberate, allowing viewers to feel the weight of each breakthrough and setback in the investigation. The background score, while occasionally heavy-handed, complements the suspense without overpowering the story.
A Global Perspective
For global audiences, *The Hunt* offers more than a historical drama; it’s a study of resilience, justice, and the far-reaching consequences of political violence. The series draws parallels to other high-profile assassinations, making it relatable to viewers unfamiliar with Indian history. Its focus on the manhunt—described as one of the largest in the world at the time—underscores universal themes of determination and the pursuit of truth in the face of chaos.
However, the series isn’t flawless. Some episodes feel stretched, with subplots about the investigators’ personal lives that don’t always add depth. Additionally, while the show strives for neutrality, its portrayal of the LTTE leans heavily on their role as antagonists, which might oversimplify the broader Sri Lankan conflict for some viewers. Yet, these are minor quibbles in an otherwise well-crafted series.
Why Watch The Hunt?
The Hunt succeeds as both a historical recounting and a gripping thriller. It honors the memory of a tragedy while celebrating the tenacity of those who sought justice. For Indian viewers, it’s a poignant reminder of a dark chapter; for international audiences, it’s an accessible entry into a complex moment in global history. Streaming now on Sony LIV, the series is a must-watch for anyone interested in true crime, political history, or simply a well-told story.
Verdict: The Hunt is a bold, unflinching series that transforms a national tragedy into a universally resonant tale of justice. With strong performances, authentic storytelling, and a focus on the human spirit, it’s a worthy addition to the true-crime genre.
Rating: 4/5 stars
Streaming on: Sony LIV, from July 4, 2025
