Akka is interesting because, instead of a traditional hero, women dominate every frame. Set primarily in 1985, it follows a brutal power battle between two powerful women played by Keerthy Suresh and Radhika Apte. The big question is: does this intense period drama live up to its intriguing premise? Let’s dive in.

Intriguing Power Game Storyline

This is the story of Perunuru, a fictional town in South India situated between the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea. For years, three sisters have ruled the region after the King vanished across the town’s three tribal divisions—Malemar, Herkada, and Perplady. The syndicate’s supreme leader holds the revered and feared title of ‘Akka’—the tale of how these women rose to power and claimed that seat is unique.

The series mainly focuses on the post-independence era in the 1980s, when these women hold sway; however, the reigning ‘Akka’ Bhavani (Keerthy Suresh) faces a major challenge when a mysterious outsider woman named Rudra arrives in Perunuru, intent on overthrowing the existing order.

Situated between the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea, Perunuru is a women’s world ruled by Akka, who doesn’t need weapons to instill fear; her name alone is enough. However, whether Rudra succeeds in dethroning Akka and changing the course of life in Pernuru is best experienced when you watch it yourself.

Direction, Writing And Story

Although we have seen many stories centered on women, Akka stands out, and much of the credit goes to the story itself. Directed and written by debutant Dharmaraj Shetty, this show explores women’s leadership through a new lens within a traditionally structured setting, making it compelling to watch.

Shetty deserves immense praise for making this universe feel deeply textured, raw, and atmospheric, not manufactured. What also adds weight to the project is that the series doesn’t rely on stereotypes; instead, it breaks them in a way that reflects that rules were never made.

Writing a story like this needs a genuine feeling from within, and the series excels in that department.

Cinematography, Presentation And Details

A major strength of this show is that it doesn’t abandon tradition or its distinct Indian essence; instead, it refines and showcases them even more effectively. By featuring women in powerful roles and commanding avatars—effectively reclaiming elements often criticized in women (such as their penchant for shringar or adornment)—the show glorifies these aspects while breaking stereotypes. It’s truly refreshing to see.

The show does an impressive job with cinematography, using elements that highlight the costumes, dark themes, and the story’s distinct narrative. Production designer Laxmi Keluskar and costume designer Sheetal Sharma create a lush, gorgeous visual canvas. The brilliant, high-tension confrontations between Suresh and Apte are the show’s absolute highlights.

Performances

The heart of the series is Keerthy Suresh as Akka Bhavani. She brings a flawless blend of vulnerability and cold, ruthless charm to the screen. Determined to protect her family’s legacy, Suresh strides through the frames with a straight-backed authority that gives viewers goosebumps.

If Keerthy is the heart, Radhika Apte is the show’s volatile soul. Known for ruling the grey shades, the actress surprises fans once again. The fire in her eyes and determination to dethrone the Akka of Pernuru make her the main catalyst.

Produced by Yash Raj Films, Akka on Netflix is a must-watch. It is an engaging, beautifully shot crime drama. It offers a fresh, feminist spin on a familiar genre while staying rooted in cultural history.

Our Editorial Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars.