Documentary
Hai Junoon is a 2025 Indian musical drama television series that premiered on May 16, 2025, on JioHotstar. Directed by Abhishek Sharma and produced under Jio Creative Lab, the series delves into the world of music, dance, and the aspirations of college students striving to make their mark in the competitive realm of performing arts.
Web Series Review
Set in the fictional Andersons College in Mumbai, Hai Junoon offers a narrative that intertwines passion, ambition, and the challenges faced by students pursuing their dreams. The series brings together a blend of music and drama, aiming to capture the essence of youthful energy and the complexities of self-discovery.
News
The series has garnered attention for its ensemble cast and the portrayal of college life through a musical lens. The performances, especially by Neil Nitin Mukesh and Jacqueline Fernandez, have been highlighted as central to the series’ appeal.
Important Plot Points
- Gagan Ahuja’s Return: The story follows Gagan Ahuja, a Grammy-winning musician, who returns to his alma mater, Andersons College, to rekindle his passion for music and mentor the next generation of artists.
- Pearl Saldanha’s Journey: Pearl Saldanha, a history lecturer at the college, finds herself drawn into the world of music and dance, challenging her own perceptions and boundaries.
- Student Dynamics: The series explores the lives of students like Subhash “Sebi” Mhatre and Bikram Singh, delving into their personal struggles, aspirations, and the dynamics of college life.
Actor & Role
- Neil Nitin Mukesh as Gagan Ahuja: A disciplined and intense musician with a legacy to uphold.
- Jacqueline Fernandez as Pearl Saldanha: A history lecturer whose journey intertwines with the world of music and dance.
- Sumedh Mudgalkar as Subhash “Sebi” Mhatre: A third-year sociology student with a passion for music.
- Siddharth Nigam as Bikram Singh: A first-year student navigating the challenges of college life.

Main Cast
- Neil Nitin Mukesh as Gagan Ahuja
- Jacqueline Fernandez as Pearl Saldanha
- Sumedh Mudgalkar as Subhash “Sebi” Mhatre
- Siddharth Nigam as Bikram Singh
- Boman Irani as Professor Iyer
- Priyank Sharma as Kushal “Kush” Lal
- Yukti Thareja as Swati
- Sharon Prabhakar as Dean Dr. Grace D’Souza
- Anusha Mani as Charulaxmi Iyer
- Shazahn Padamsee as Kritika (extended cameo)
- Shankar Mahadevan as himself (cameo)
- Shiamak Davar as himself (cameo)
Production Team
- Director: Abhishek Sharma
- Producers: Aditya Bhat, Sagar Thakkar, Shekhar Yadav, Karan Bijlani
- Cinematography: Amarjeet Singh
- Editors: Jugal Shah, Ankuush Das, Ajay Mojidra
- Music: Shankar Mahadevan
- Studio: Jio Creative Lab
Episode Highlight Guide
- Episode 1: Introduction to Gagan Ahuja’s return to Andersons College and the initial interactions with the students.
- Episode 5: A pivotal performance that showcases the fusion of history and music, highlighting Pearl’s transformation.
- Episode 10: Mid-season culmination with a grand musical event that tests the characters’ growth and relationships.
- Episode 15: A reflective episode focusing on the personal challenges faced by the students and their mentors.
- Episode 20: The season finale, bringing together all story arcs and setting the stage for potential future developments.
Major Takeaways
- Musical Integration: The series effectively blends music with storytelling, offering a fresh perspective on the genre.
- Character Development: The characters undergo significant growth, making their journeys relatable and engaging.
- Cultural Representation: Hai Junoon provides a glimpse into the vibrant college culture, emphasizing the importance of passion and perseverance.
- Cameo Appearances: The inclusion of renowned personalities like Shankar Mahadevan and Shiamak Davar adds authenticity and appeal to the series.
Closing Remarks
Hai Junoon stands out as a musical drama that not only entertains but also inspires. With its compelling narrative, strong performances, and memorable music, the series resonates with audiences, especially those passionate about the arts. As the story unfolds, it promises to delve deeper into the complexities of ambition, relationships, and the pursuit of dreams.