This rich story filled with intrigue, wonder, and redemption was meant only for Charlie Hunnam. He is captivating whenever he is on screen, playing a lost and vulnerable Lin, in a classic fish out of water story. He is unsure of the person he wants to be, but knows that the person he is right now is not the person he should be.
And there to help him find his way is Prahbu, played by Shubham Saraf. Shubham is charismatic and personable in his speech, demeanor, and mannerisms; sometimes even overtaking Charlie in charm whenever the two appear together. It would be a great injustice if Shubham doesn't deserve any recognition for this role.
The setting of 1980 Bombay India is itself a main character; a world that is living and breathing with all kinds of rich cultural sights and sounds. Production set up and costume design are meticulous, leaving you no choice but to be lost in this world, just as Lin is navigating through it for the very first time.
The story is slowly developing, but Shantaram has more going for it than other stories that are lucky enough to be renewed for many seasons.