‘Maharani’ to ‘Borgen’: 5 political drama series to watch as Lok Sabha Elections 2024 begin

The Lok Sabha Elections 2024 got undeway on April 19 with 102 constituencies, across 21 states and Union territories, going to polls in the first phase. Several leaders urged the citizens to cast their votes and participate in the ‘dance of democracy’.

Elections are synonymous with rigorous campaigning and intense strategising. Over the years, several shows from different countries have captured the intricacies of politics through riveting narratives. Here are five compelling political series viewers can binge on as the country gets into ‘election mode’.

‘Maharani’ (May 2021- present)

The Huma Qureshi-led series is set in Bihar and centres on an ‘illiterate woman’ who becomes the Chief Minister after her husband is jailed in connection with a scam. She faces challenges as many consider her to be a puppet’ but eventually silences her critics to emerge as a competent leader. The show struck a chord with viewers with its layered narrative and unpredictable twists. Huma delivered an unmissable performance and channeled her character’s vulnerabilities. The cast includes Sohum Shah, Amit Sial, and Vineet Singh.

‘Designated Survivor’ (September 2016 to May 2018)

The first season of this well-received political drama series revolves around Tom Kirkmaan, a simple family fan who becomes the President of the United States under unprecedented circumstances. He then overcomes personal and professional challenges as he tries to come to terms with his new reality. The second and third seasons, meanwhile, explore his transformation from a naive rookie to a selfish and manipulative politician. The series features several intriguing subplots, including one about bio-terrorism, and dark twists. The cast is headlined by Kiefer Sutherland as President Kirkman, Adan Canto as Alan Shore, Kal Penn as Seth Wright, and Italia Ricci as Emily Rhodes.

‘Madam Secretary’ (September 2014 to December 2019)

Much like ‘Designated Survivor’, ‘Madam Secretary’ is an underdog saga. It centres on Elizabeth McCord (Téa Leoni), an ex-CIA analyst who becomes the Secretary of State and finds herself battling office politics. She also tries to resolve international conflicts as part of her job. The layered narrative, realistic presentation, and Tea’s effortless performance helped the series hit it out of the park. ‘Madam Secretary’ is the brainchild of creator Barbara Hall, best known for her work on Judging Amy.

‘House of Cards’ (February 2013 to November 2018)

Kevin Spacey stole the show with his biting portrayal of Frank Underwood, a scheming Democrat, in the series. The series boasts of well-written characters, engaging subplots and a constant game of one-upmanship. ‘House of Cards’ ran for six seasons but Spacey was not involved with the final installment as Netflix fired him over sexual misconduct allwegations. The show holds an approval rating of 77 percent on Rotten Tomatoes.

‘Borgen’ (September 2010 to April 2022)

The Danish political series enjoys a dedicated fan following because of Sidse Babett Knudsen’s realistic portrayal of Birgitte Nyborg,, a principled Moderate party leader who becomes the Prime Minister under unusual circumstances, The electoral process and its intricacies formed the show’s backbone. Borgen is the brainchild of Adam Price, who also wrote the fantasy drama ‘Ragnarok’.