Netflix’s journey with Indian TV content has been a mixed bag. While some offerings haven’t resonated well with audiences, a few gems stand out, showcasing the platform’s potential to deliver compelling Indian narratives. Here’s a list of some of the best Netflix original Indian TV shows that you absolutely shouldn’t miss.
01. Sacred Games (Season 1)
Plot Summary: The debut season of Sacred Games marked a turning point for Netflix in India. Released in July 2018, it quickly became a cultural phenomenon, captivating both cinephiles and casual viewers with its unique storytelling. The show delves into a slow-burning crime drama, exploring themes of politics, religion, corruption, and sex—subjects rarely addressed with such maturity in Indian television.
Why Watch: Sacred Games Season 1 is lauded for its high production values and gripping narrative. It is a must-watch for anyone exploring the darker, more nuanced aspects of Indian society. However, the second season didn’t quite live up to the first and can be skipped without losing much.
Note: The series was canceled after its second season.
02. Ghoul
Plot Summary: Ghoul is a thrilling mini-series in a dystopian future where fascism dominates. The story follows Nida Rahim, a newly recruited military officer played by Radhika Apte, who is tasked with interrogating a feared terrorist, Ali Saeed. As the plot unfolds, supernatural elements emerge, revealing dark secrets and sparking a terrifying chain of events.
Why Watch: Ghoul is a gripping horror-thriller that combines mystery and psychological tension, making it one of Netflix’s hidden gems.
03. Selection Day
Plot Summary: Adapted from Aravind Adiga’s novel, Selection Day is a sports drama about two brothers from a humble background who strive to succeed in cricket. The show also addresses complex themes such as identity and sexuality, particularly through the character of Manju, portrayed by Mohammad Samad.
Why Watch: Selection Day stands out for its nuanced portrayal of young queer love, marking a significant step forward for LGBTQ+ representation in Indian media.
Note: The series was canceled after its second season.
04. Delhi Crime (Season 1)
Plot Summary: Based on the harrowing 2012 Delhi gang rape case, Delhi Crime follows DCP Vartika Chaturvedi, played by Shefali Shah, as she leads the investigation to bring the culprits to justice. The series offers a raw and powerful look at one of India’s most infamous criminal cases.
Why Watch: Delhi Crime, winner of the Outstanding Drama Series award at the 2020 International Emmy Awards, is a compelling and intense viewing experience.
05. Delhi Crime (Season 2)
Plot Summary: The second season shifts focus to the Kachcha Baniyan gangs, known for their brutal home invasions. It continues to deliver strong performances and sharp writing, maintaining the high standards set by the first season.
Why Watch: With its gripping storyline and nuanced performances, Delhi Crime Season 2 is another testament to its excellence.
Note: There’s no official news on a third season yet.
06. Mismatched
Plot Summary: Based on Sandhya Menon’s book When Dimple Met Rishi, Mismatched is a light-hearted rom-com that follows the love story of two contrasting personalities. Dimple Ahuja, a coding enthusiast, and Rishi, a hopeless romantic, navigate their differences and find common ground.
Why Watch: The series offers a charming and relatable portrayal of young love, perfect for fans of romantic comedies.
07. Decoupled
Plot Summary: Decoupled follows the tumultuous lives of a cynical writer and his entrepreneur wife as they navigate their divorce amidst the absurdities of their affluent world. The chemistry between the leads, R. Madhavan and Surveen Chawla, adds depth to this witty exploration of modern relationships.
Why Watch: The series is a humorous and insightful look at the complexities of contemporary marriage.
Note: There’s no word yet on a second season.
08. Bad Boy Billionaires: India
Plot Summary: This three-part documentary series delves into the scandals involving Indian billionaires Vijay Mallya, Subrata Roy, and Nirav Modi, uncovering their rise to infamy and the consequences of their actions.
Why Watch: The series provides a fascinating and detailed look at how these individuals exploited legal loopholes and the extent of their impact on society.
09. House of Secrets: The Burari Deaths
Plot Summary: This chilling docu-series explores the mysterious deaths of 11 family members in Delhi’s Burari area. It examines the various theories surrounding the incident and provides insights into the family’s history and the events leading up to the tragedy.
Why Watch: The series is a disturbing but thought-provoking exploration of mental health, patriarchy, and cultural beliefs in India.
10. Indian Matchmaking
Plot Summary: Indian Matchmaking offers a candid look into the world of arranged marriages in contemporary India, following matchmaker Sima Taparia as she helps clients find suitable matches.
Why Watch: The show provides an entertaining and insightful glimpse into the traditions and modern realities of arranged marriages.
Note: Season three has yet to be confirmed.
11. Little Things
Plot Summary: Little Things focuses on the small, everyday moments that define relationships. It stars Dhruv Sehgal and Mithila Palkar, whose on-screen chemistry brings authenticity and charm to the story.
Why Watch: This series is a delightful watch because it offers a heartwarming and relatable perspective on modern relationships.
Note: The series concluded after four successful seasons.
12. Guns & Gulaabs
Plot Summary: Set in the 90s, Guns & Gulaabs combines crime, love, and humor in the fictional town of Gulaabgunj. An opium deal draws a city cop and a mechanic into a chaotic and violent underworld.
Why Watch: With a unique blend of genres and engaging storytelling, this series offers a nostalgic and thrilling experience.
Note: The show has been renewed for a second season.
13. Trial by Fire
Plot Summary: Based on the Uphaar Cinema fire tragedy 1997, Trial by Fire follows the Krishnamoorthy family’s relentless quest for justice against powerful adversaries. The series features Rajshri Deshpande and Abhay Deol in standout roles.
Why Watch: The series provides a poignant and powerful look at a family’s fight for justice, making it a deeply moving watch.
14. Kohrra
Plot Summary: Kohrra is a gripping crime drama set in Punjab, revolving around the investigation of an NRI’s death. It blends a murder mystery with explorations of social issues, creating a compelling narrative.
Why Watch: With strong performances and a captivating story, Kohrra offers an immersive and thought-provoking experience.
15. Aranyak
Plot Summary: Aranyak is a crime thriller that weaves Indian cultural elements into its narrative. It follows the investigation of a mysterious crime in a small town, blending suspense with local folklore.
Why Watch: The show offers a fresh take on the crime-thriller genre with its authentic Indian setting and gripping plot.
16. Masaba Masaba
Plot Summary: Masaba Masaba fictionalizes the lives of fashion designer Masaba Gupta and her mother, Neena Gupta. The series offers a playful and entertaining glimpse into their world.
Why Watch: The show stands out for its refreshing and relatable depiction of a mother-daughter duo, with Neena Gupta’s performance being a particular highlight.
17. CAT
Plot Summary: CAT tells the story of Gurnaam, a man caught in the web of espionage. The series is notable for its use of Punjabi language and its portrayal of complex characters and societal issues.
Why Watch: The show offers a fresh take on the spy genre with compelling performances, particularly from Randeep Hooda and Suvinder Vicky.
These Netflix original Indian TV shows showcase a diverse range of genres and themes, reflecting the rich storytelling tradition of Indian cinema and television. Whether you’re in the mood for a gripping crime drama, a heartfelt romance, or a chilling documentary, these series have something for everyone.
