Cast: Parmish Verma, Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub, Ranvir Shorey, Arunoday Singh, Aadar Malik, and Jasmin Bajwa

Director: Chandan Arora

Rating: ****

The world knows two Canadas—the official Canada of its native citizens and "Kanneda," shaped by Indian Punjabi immigrants. Parmish Verma's latest show, Kanneda, explores this contrast, revealing what happens when these two worlds collide.

A Riveting Tale of Dreams and Survival

Set in the aftermath of the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, Kanneda presents a compelling depiction of a growing Punjabi community in Canada. The series follows Nirmal Chahal, fondly called Nimma, played by Parmish Verma. Fearless, ambitious, and unapologetic, Nimma dreams big and believes that success comes with wealth. His journey takes place in the late 1980s and early 1990s, a time when the Indian Punjabi diaspora was fighting against racism while navigating increasing violence in Vancouver.

Vancouver’s Crime Underworld – The Rise of Nimma

Vancouver serves as the primary backdrop for Kanneda, chronicling Nimma’s rise from an underdog to a powerful drug lord. His story is narrated by Indian narcotics officer Sanjay (Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub), a sharp yet emotionally vulnerable cop who tracks Nimma’s every move. As the chase unfolds, viewers witness an intense battle of wits between the two.

Arunoday Singh delivers a formidable performance as the primary antagonist, adding layers of depth to the crime-infested world of Kanneda. Ranvir Shorey further enhances the show’s tension, playing a ruthless boss who controls Vancouver’s underworld with an iron fist.

Fast-Paced Storytelling That Hooks You Instantly

While Kanneda integrates multiple elements—romance, action, thrills, and social commentary—the show’s gripping pace ensures it never feels overwhelming. The eight-episode series, each lasting 25–35 minutes, offers a tightly packed narrative that keeps viewers engaged from start to finish.

From the very first scene, where Nimma purchases an engagement ring, the show establishes his character—a self-made, confident, and street-smart man who values both emotions and self-imposed rules. He challenges traditional community norms, operating with an unstoppable drive to carve out his own destiny.

A Complex and Charismatic Anti-Hero

Creator Sandeep Jain crafts Nimma as a powerful, multifaceted character. He is not just a gangster but also an influential rapper inspiring the younger Punjabi generation. While audiences root for him, Kanneda does not glorify his actions. Instead, it carefully exposes his flaws as his empire grows. His character evokes comparisons to Ajay Devgn’s Sultan Mirza from Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai, but Nimma is more nuanced, with his rise and fall portrayed realistically.

Powerful Performances and Sharp Dialogues

The show delivers more than just action—it brings emotional depth. The chemistry between Zeeshan Ayyub and Verma creates a gripping dynamic, making their cat-and-mouse chase all the more thrilling. Some dialogues leave a lasting impact, such as when Nimma is asked, “Kaisa hai tera Punjab?” (How does your Punjab look now?), to which he responds, “Pehle hara hota tha, ab laal hai.” (It used to be green, now it’s red.)

A Refreshing Addition to Indian OTT Content

Chandan Arora’s direction ensures that Kanneda remains visually captivating throughout. The show never slows down, maintaining its intensity till the very end. The background score enhances the drama, immersing viewers further into Nimma’s world.

While Kanneda follows a familiar commercial cinema formula, it executes it masterfully. The storytelling, performances, and direction work together to create a binge-worthy experience that resonates with audiences.

Final Verdict: A Must-Watch Crime Drama

Kanneda is a thrilling, performance-driven series that stands out in the Indian OTT space. Parmish Verma delivers an exceptional performance, solidifying his position in the industry. With its sharp storytelling, intense drama, and strong character arcs, Kanneda is a must-watch for fans of crime dramas.

Now streaming on JioHotstar, Kanneda is entertainment at its finest.