iWorld
Panchayat season 4 breaks records worldwide, Prime Video confirms season 5 for 2026
MUMBAI: Panchayat has done it again only bigger, sharper, and more global than ever. The rural drama returned to Prime Video with season 4 on 24 June, and within days, shattered all previous franchise records, earning its highest-ever opening week.
From trending in over 42 countries to clocking streams in 180+ nations and 95 per cent of India’s pin codes, Panchayat is no longer just small-town storytelling, it’s a full-blown global phenomenon with an Indian accent.
The show anchored by its powerhouse cast including Jitendra Kumar, Neena Gupta, Raghubir Yadav, Faisal Malik, Sanvikaa, Chandan Roy, and others—struck a nostalgic, satirical chord once again, proving that real storytelling doesn’t need frills, just a filter-less view of rural India.
The fan-favourite series from TVF hit the Top 10 charts on Prime Video in the USA, UK, Canada, UAE, and Australia on launch day alone. In India, it promptly claimed the #1 trending spot and made its way into living rooms across nearly every corner of the country—from bustling metros to the most remote districts.
Since its debut in 2018, Panchayat has been more than just entertainment, it’s been a cultural mirror. Season 2 bagged the first-ever Best Web Series (OTT) Award at the 54th International Film Festival of India in 2023. Each season has built steadily on the last, but season 4 has truly pushed the envelope in terms of reach and resonance.
“We are absolutely delighted with the phenomenal response to Panchayat Season 4, which has further elevated the series’ stature and set new benchmarks for authentic storytelling,” said Prime Video India director & head – content licensing, Manish Menghani. “The season’s exceptional viewership across India and in over 180 countries within its launch week is a testament to its universal appeal and deep cultural resonance. With its heartfelt narrative and relatable characters, Panchayat has evolved into a global phenomenon, transcending borders and touching audiences with its warmth, simplicity, and authenticity. This milestone not only reflects the enduring love for the series but also reinforces the growing global appetite for rooted, Indian stories. We’re excited to share that work has already begun on Season 5, and we look forward to continuing the journey of Phulera and its beloved characters.”
“It has been a truly extraordinary journey collaborating with Prime Video to bring Panchayat to life and witness its incredible growth over the years,” said The Viral Fever (TVF) president, Vijay Koshy. “This series holds a special place in our hearts, as it beautifully captures the charm, humor, and nuances of rural India, celebrating the power of simple, human storytelling. Panchayat reflects the shared vision and values we hold with Prime Video: to tell meaningful, relatable stories that resonate with audiences across geographies. We are deeply grateful for the overwhelming love season 4 has received—not just from viewers across India, but from audiences around the world. A heartfelt thank you to the incredible cast and crew whose passion and dedication made this journey possible, and to the fans whose unwavering support continues to inspire us. We’re excited for what lies ahead and look forward to bringing season 5 to audiences in 2026.”
Whether it’s the deadpan delivery of Abhishek Tripathi, the wisdom of Manju Devi, or the bureaucratic chaos of Phulera, Panchayat continues to thrive on a rare blend of wit, heart, and hyperlocal relatability.
As development on season 5 kicks off, one thing’s clear: in the age of high-stakes thrillers and big-budget spectacles, Panchayat is the quiet revolution that just won’t stop trending.
iWorld
Prime Video and Hrithik Roshan reunite for quirky heist comedy Mess
HRX Films expands pact with quirky heist comedy set for production
MUMBAI: Prime Video is doubling down on its partnership with Hrithik Roshan, announcing a new comedy film Mess that promises chaos, chuckles and a clever twist on the classic heist.
Produced by Hrithik Roshan and Eshaan Roshan under HRX Films, a division of FilmKraft Productions, the film is being made in association with Soda Films Lab. Directed by Rajesh A Krishnan, Mess marks the second collaboration between the streaming platform and HRX Films after the upcoming thriller Storm.
At the heart of Mess lies an unusual premise. A group of robbers break into the home of a man with OCD, only to find themselves outmatched in a night-long standoff that flips the script on who is really in control. It is a set-up that blends tension with humour, turning a break-in into a breakdown of expectations.
Prime Video India director and head of originals Nikhil Madhok said, “A good story should surprise and entertain, and Mess does both with ease. It brings together a unique premise, memorable characters and a tone that keeps you laughing throughout.”
He added that the collaboration with HRX Films continues to grow stronger, with the new film reflecting a shared appetite for bold and original storytelling.
Hrithik Roshan said, “After Storm, Mess feels like a natural next step in our journey with Prime Video. The film captures the kind of unconventional storytelling we want to champion, with Rajesh bringing a distinctive voice to the narrative.”
Director Rajesh A Krishnan said, “The world of Mess is a mix of comedy and chaos, unusual enough to keep audiences on edge while still delivering humour. It has been a deeply collaborative and creatively fulfilling experience.”
The original screenplay comes from Paul Soter, with adaptation and dialogues by Kapil Sawant, adding another layer of craft to the film’s offbeat narrative.
As production gears up, Mess looks ready to live up to its name, serving up a delightful tangle of mayhem, mischief and movie magic for audiences in India and beyond.
