Exploring the Realities of Farming in Amazon MX Player's 'Mitti'

A Unique Take on Agriculture

The term “modern famine” is seldom mentioned in streaming series, yet Amazon MX Player’s Mitti offers a refreshing narrative. This Hindi series follows a marketing executive who embarks on a journey to become a farmer, while subtly addressing the pressing issues faced by Indian farmers, including debt and erratic weather conditions.

Raghav (Ishwak Singh) excels at marketing the essence of 'Bharat' to urban audiences. However, when he attempts to reconnect with his roots, he realizes that his skills may not suffice.

His grandfather Sudarshan (Yogendra Tiku) is burdened with a substantial loan on his farmland. Motivated by fond memories, a desire to restore his grandfather's dignity, and a determination to succeed in agriculture, Raghav decides to take over the farming responsibilities.

Challenges arise, including the menacing loan recovery agent Girdhari (Sharat Sonu) and skepticism from those around him. Meanwhile, Raghav's girlfriend Stuti (Diksha Juneja) grows increasingly impatient back in the city.

Nature adds to the complications with unpredictable weather, locusts, and nilgais to contend with.

With assistance from the pragmatic government official Kritika (Shruti Sharma) and insights from fellow farmers, Raghav begins to grasp the realities of farming. Kritika’s involvement highlights the positive impact that dedicated officials can have on agricultural success.

This eight-episode series, crafted by writers Nikhil Sachan, Akash Chawla, and Arunava Joy Sengupta, skillfully intertwines an uplifting storyline with the harsh truths of farming life. Raghav’s struggles and dilemmas feel relatable, especially in the initial episodes.

A particularly touching moment occurs when Raghav’s father reflects on the sacrifices made for a better future outside the village. Sudarshan also reminds Raghav that while the fruits of their labor may reach the city, the roots remain in the village.

Directors Gangajeet Singh and Alok Kumar Dwivedi effectively convey that romanticizing farming does not aid Raghav’s journey. Mitti is set against realistic backdrops and provides insightful details about agricultural practices, from soil assessments to events where farmers proudly display their harvests.

However, the series loses some of its momentum in later episodes, which resemble a presentation from the agriculture ministry. The transition from failure to success through technological solutions appears overly simplistic.

Despite the creators occasionally resorting to motivational speeches reminiscent of Raghav's earlier persona, Mitti stands out from other shows with similar themes by exploring an unconventional subject with genuine curiosity.

In addition to Ishwak Singh's strong performance, Alka Amin shines as Raghav’s grandmother. Pranjal Pateriya and Piyush Kumar portray Raghav’s friends, reminiscent of the dynamic seen in the popular series Panchayat.

Raghav serves as a contrast to Panchayat’s Abhishek, who struggles to adapt to village life. While Raghav’s journey is more idealistic, Mitti manages to make this aspiration feel attainable.