Gajraj Rao cherishes 'Dabba Cartel' bond, wishes creator Shibani Akhtar on birthday
Synopsis
Gajraj Rao's birthday note for Dabba Cartel co-creator Shibani Akhtar is a rare, candid look at the human bonds forged behind a hit Netflix production. The actor called the show — which premiered in February 2025 — a career memory he will always hold close, and named nearly a dozen collaborators he credits for making it special.
Key Takeaways
Gajraj Rao shared a birthday tribute for Shibani Dandekar Akhtar on 27 August , co-creator of 'Dabba Cartel' .
Rao called the Netflix series 'much more than just a web show,' describing his character as one he will 'always cherish.' He named over a dozen collaborators — including Hitesh Bhatia , Shabana Azmi , Jyothika , and Jisshu Sengupta — in his post. 'Dabba Cartel' was produced by Excel Entertainment and premiered on Netflix on 28 February 2025 .
The series was created by Shibani Dandekar Akhtar , Vishnu Menon , Gaurav Kapur , and Akanksha Seda .
Actor Gajraj Rao has shared a warm birthday tribute for Shibani Dandekar Akhtar, co-creator of the Netflix series 'Dabba Cartel', reflecting on the lasting connections the show forged and calling it one of the most meaningful professional experiences of his career.
A Show That Gave More Than a Role
In a post shared on social media, Rao described 'Dabba Cartel' as far more than a web series. 'Dabba Cartel was much more than just a web show for me. It gave me a character that I will always cherish and hold close to my memories,' he wrote. The actor, widely recognised for his acclaimed performance in 'Badhaai Ho', said the show introduced him to 'truly wonderful and warm-hearted people' who continue to hold a special place in his heart.
The Birthday Message for Shibani Akhtar
Rao named several collaborators in his note — including director Hitesh Bhatia, and cast members Sai Tamhankar, Shabana Azmi, Jyothika, Shalini Pandey, Nimisha Sajayan, Anjali Anand, and Jisshu Sengupta, among others. Singling out Shibani, he described her as 'incredibly cheerful and always so warm and welcoming whenever we meet.' He added: 'May God bless you with immense happiness, countless opportunities to travel the world, and endless energy to share your stories with the world. Keep shining and continue spreading the magic of your creativity.'
About Dabba Cartel
'Dabba Cartel' was created by Shibani Dandekar Akhtar, Vishnu Menon, Gaurav Kapur, and Akanksha Seda, and directed by Hitesh Bhatia. Produced by Excel Entertainment, the series features an ensemble cast led by Shabana Azmi, Jyothika, Shalini Pandey, Nimisha Sajayan, and Anjali Anand. The show follows a group of women who run a drug cartel behind the cover of a food delivery business — a premise that drew considerable attention on its release.
Premiere and Reception
The series premiered on Netflix on 28 February 2025, becoming one of the more talked-about ensemble productions on the platform that quarter. Rao's tribute, posted on 27 August, underlines the personal bonds that often outlast a production — and adds to the visibility of a show that built its audience steadily after launch.
Point of View
A banner better known for male-led stories, and its quiet word-of-mouth run on Netflix suggests the format has legs. Rao's public affection for the project is also a reminder that for character actors, a well-written supporting role in a streaming hit can be as career-defining as a theatrical lead.
NationPress
27 Aug 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Gajraj Rao write about Dabba Cartel?
Gajraj Rao called 'Dabba Cartel' much more than a web series, saying it gave him a character he will always cherish and introduced him to warm-hearted people he holds close. He shared the tribute as part of a birthday post for show co-creator Shibani Dandekar Akhtar on 27 August.
Who created and directed Dabba Cartel on Netflix?
'Dabba Cartel' was created by Shibani Dandekar Akhtar, Vishnu Menon, Gaurav Kapur, and Akanksha Seda, and directed by Hitesh Bhatia. It was produced by Excel Entertainment and premiered on Netflix on 28 February 2025.
Who stars in Dabba Cartel?
The series features an ensemble cast including Shabana Azmi, Jyothika, Shalini Pandey, Nimisha Sajayan, Anjali Anand, and Jisshu Sengupta, among others. Gajraj Rao also appeared in the show.
What is Dabba Cartel about?
'Dabba Cartel' follows a group of women who secretly run a drug cartel while operating under the cover of a food delivery business. The Netflix series premiered on 28 February 2025.
Why is Gajraj Rao's post about Dabba Cartel significant?
The post highlights the personal bonds formed during the making of the show and draws renewed attention to 'Dabba Cartel' months after its February 2025 premiere. It also underscores the show's impact on its cast beyond its on-screen performance.
