“Dupahiya” Shines on OTT: Gajraj Rao’s New Web Series Beats “Paatal Lok 2” in Debut Week!

Gajraj Rao and Renuka Shahane’s new web series, “Dupahiya,” has quickly become a favorite among viewers, earning rave reviews since its release on March 7 on Prime Video. The series offers a refreshing narrative that resonates with audiences, drawing favorable comparisons to the popular show “Panchayat.”

Gajraj Rao’s Dual Success

Gajraj Rao is currently basking in the success of two acclaimed web series. Prior to “Dupahiya,” he captivated audiences with his performance in “Dabba Cartel” on Netflix, which registered 1.8 million views in its debut week. This dual triumph showcases Rao’s versatility and strong presence in the digital entertainment space.

Impressive Debut of “Dupahiya”

“Dupahiya” made a notable entry into the streaming world. In its debut week (March 3-9, 2025), the series garnered 1.8 million views, surpassing the opening week numbers of “Paatal Lok” Season 2, which had 1.4 million views. This 28% higher viewership indicates a strong start for “Dupahiya” on Prime Video.

Comparisons with “Panchayat” and “Paatal Lok”

While “Dupahiya” has made an impressive debut, it faces stiff competition from other popular series. “Panchayat” Season 3, starring Jitendra Kumar, achieved a massive 12 million views in its debut week and a total of 28.2 million views, making it one of the most-watched web series of 2024.

Similarly, “Paatal Lok” Season 2, led by Jaideep Ahlawat, accumulated 16 million views over four weeks.

These benchmarks set high expectations for “Dupahiya” as it continues its streaming journey.

The Road Ahead for “Dupahiya”

Written by Avinash Dwivedi and Chirag Garg, “Dupahiya” has started on a promising note. The series’ engaging storyline and stellar performances have the potential to attract a larger audience in the coming weeks. While matching the colossal numbers of “Panchayat” Season 3 may be challenging, “Dupahiya” is well-positioned to carve its own niche and possibly surpass the viewership of “Paatal Lok” Season 2.

Conclusion

“Dupahiya” has emerged as a noteworthy addition to the Indian web series landscape. Its early success reflects the audience’s appreciation for quality content and strong performances. As the series progresses, it will be interesting to see how it fares against established favorites like “Panchayat” and “Paatal Lok.” For now, “Dupahiya” stands as a testament to the evolving dynamics of digital entertainment, offering viewers fresh and engaging narratives.