In the era of streaming platforms, Indian web series have created a unique niche for themselves with their engaging storylines, diverse genres, and brilliant acting. Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, the two most popular platforms, boast of a rich library of Indian content that caters to every taste. Whether you are interested in thrillers, dramas, romance, or comedies, there is something for everyone. Here is a detailed guide to the most watched and most recommended Indian web series on these platforms.
Top Indian Web Series on Netflix
1. Sacred Games
- Genre: Crime, Thriller
- Why Watch: “Sacred Games” is a game-changer in Indian OTT history. Directed by Anurag Kashyap and Vikramaditya Motwane, it stars Saif Ali Khan as Sartaj Singh, a troubled police officer, and Nawazuddin Siddiqui as Ganesh Gaitonde, a notorious gangster. The series unravels a gripping tale of betrayal, survival and the intertwined destinies of its characters in the chaotic world of Mumbai. Its intense narrative and cliffhangers keep you hooked.
Sacred Games is a popular Indian crime drama series based on Vikram Chandra’s 2006 novel of the same name. The show, which premiered on Netflix in 2018, is set in Mumbai and weaves together elements of crime, politics, and history, exploring the life of Sartaj Singh, a police officer, and his investigations into the city’s underworld. The series is steeped in the complex characters of gangster Ganesh Gaitonde and the people around him.
It gained attention for its strong storyline, powerful performances (particularly by Nawazuddin Siddiqui as Gaitonde and Saif Ali Khan as Sartaj) and portrayal of the dark side of Mumbai. The show is known for its intriguing plot, suspense and its take on various socio-political issues.
Did you see it? What do you think of it?
2. Delhi Crime
- Genre: Crime, Drama
- Why Watch: This International Emmy Award-winning series based on the 2012 Delhi gang-rape case is an emotional and harrowing portrayal of the police investigation. Shefali Shah delivers a stellar performance as DCP Vartika Chaturvedi, highlighting the challenges of law enforcement in a deeply flawed system.
Delhi Crimes is another critically acclaimed Indian crime drama based on the 2012 Delhi gang rape case. The show, which premiered on Netflix in 2019, focuses on the investigation led by DCP Vartika Chaturvedi (played by Shefali Shah) to catch the culprits responsible for the crime. It is based on the emotional, ethical and logistical challenges faced by the police while dealing with a brutal and highly publicized case.
The series received widespread praise for its sensitive yet candid portrayal of crime-related events as well as its strong acting. Shefali Shah’s portrayal as the lead character was particularly praised for its depth and nuance. Delhi Crime is also known for its realistic portrayal of the work of the police force and the human cost of such tragedies.
The show won the International Emmy Award for Best Drama Series in 2020, making it a significant achievement for Indian television.
Have you seen this movie? What do you think about the portrayal of this case?
3. Kota Factory
- Genre: Comedy, Drama
- Why Watch: The struggles of students aspiring to study IIT in Kota, Rajasthan are brought to life in this uniquely shot black-and-white series. “Kota Factory” depicts the emotional and academic challenges faced by the students, with Jeetu Bhaiya (played by Jitendra Kumar) providing wisdom and guidance to his students. It is a heartwarming series that connects with anyone who has ever chased a dream.
Kota Factory is a unique and refreshing Indian web series that explores the lives of students in Kota, a city known for its coaching institutes that prepare students for competitive exams like IIT-JEE. The series, which premiered on TVF (The Viral Fever) in 2019, is the story of a teenager named Vaibhav, who moves to Kota to pursue his dream of getting into IIT.
What makes Kota Factory stand out is its realistic, raw portrayal of the immense pressure the students face, the mental and emotional burden of the rigorous coaching system, and the ups and downs of trying to succeed in such a competitive environment. The series touches upon themes such as friendship, failure, and the struggles of growing up while trying to meet societal expectations. It also highlights the human side of the teachers and mentors who are guiding these students.
The black and white visuals of the first season give it a unique beauty and tone, while the second season goes into colour, symbolising Vaibhav’s journey of understanding his path and making important decisions for his future.
The show resonated with many viewers, especially students who have faced similar pressures, and received praise for its authenticity and nuanced storytelling. It truly captures the experience of trying to balance personal growth and academic ambition.
Have you seen this film? What is your opinion about the way student life and quota pressures are depicted in it?
4. She
- Genre: Crime, Drama
- Why Watch: Imtiaz Ali’s “She” explores the journey of a female constable who goes undercover in Mumbai’s dirty underworld. Aditi Pohankar plays Bhoomi, who discovers her strength and sexuality in the process. The series offers a new perspective on gender and empowerment.
She is a gripping Indian crime drama series that debuted on Netflix in 2020. Directed by Arif Ali and produced by Imtiaz Ali, the show revolves around a female constable, Shumaila (played by Aaditi Pohankar), who is recruited in an undercover operation to infiltrate Mumbai’s criminal underworld. Her journey of self-discovery, survival, and transformation is at the heart of the series.
Shumaila, who initially appears as a shy and vulnerable woman, becomes involved in the world of crime and begins to use her sexuality as part of her secret identity. As the story progresses, she grapples with her internal conflicts and complex emotions, as well as the dangers of the criminal world she has been pushed into.
The show stands out for its exploration of themes such as power, sexuality, and the challenges faced by women in the police force and society. It also shows the vulnerabilities and strengths of its protagonist, making her journey compelling and multifaceted.
It gained attention for its bold and mature content, and Aditi Pohankar’s performance was widely praised for bringing depth to her character. It blends thriller elements with socio-political commentary, highlighting issues such as gender dynamics, crime, and personal empowerment.
Have you watched ‘She’? What did you think about how the series depicted Shumaila’s transformation and the world she becomes a part of?
5. Mismatched
- Genre: Romantic Comedy
- Why Watch: A gripping tale of young love and coding boot camp, “Mismatched” is based on Sandhya Menon’s book “When Dimple Met Rishi”. Starring Prajakta Koli and Rohit Saraf, the series explores teenage relationships, self-discovery, and dreams.
Mismatched is a funny and heartwarming upcoming Indian series that premiered on Netflix in 2020. Based on the book When Dimple Met Rishi by Sandhya Menon, the show follows the story of Dimple, an ambitious tech enthusiast who is more interested in coding than traditional romantic ideas, and Rishi, a hopeless romantic who believes in the concept of love at first sight. They meet at a summer coding camp and form an unexpected, and often awkward, connection.
The series is light-hearted but also explores deeper themes such as self-identity, relationships, and the pressures of societal expectations, especially when it comes to love and career. It’s not just about romance, but also about personal growth, nurturing friendships, and finding yourself while trying to meet the expectations of others.
Mismatched is often praised for its fresh take on romance and youth, with the ensemble cast bringing charm to their characters. The chemistry between Dimple and Rishi is endearing, and the show offers a mix of humor, heart, and relatable moments. It also reflects modern-day issues faced by young adults, such as following passion versus meeting family expectations.
It has a playful, feel-good atmosphere with moments of introspection, making it worth watching for anyone who has gone through the challenges of young love, friendship, or trying to figure out where they belong.
Did you enjoy watching Mismatched? How did you like the characters and their journey?
6. Jamtara: Sabka Number Ayega
- Genre: Crime, Drama
- Why Watch: Inspired by true events, “Jamtara” is based on phishing scams operated by youth from small towns in Jharkhand. The series highlights the connection between crime, politics and ambition, with stellar performances from its cast.
Jamtara: Sabka Number Aayega is a gripping Indian crime drama that premiered on Netflix in 2020. The series is inspired by true events and focuses on the small town of Jamtara in Jharkhand, which becomes notorious for a massive phishing scam. The show follows a group of young men, led by the ambitious and sharp-minded Sunny, who run a phishing operation, tricking people into sharing personal details and bank account information over the phone.
The series delves deep into the world of cybercrime, showing how a small-scale operation can quickly grow and attract the attention of local politicians, law enforcement and rival criminals. It’s not just about the scam, but also about the characters involved, their motivations and the power dynamics in the field, mixing crime with elements of social commentary.
The show is praised for showing how easy it is to exploit people’s trust through technology and how this scam operates at multiple levels – from small operators to larger forces trying to control illegal activities. It also highlights the complexities of rural India and how people can be driven to crime due to issues such as lack of education, unemployment and poverty.
Jamtara features excellent performances from actors like Amit Sial (playing the role of Gudiya) and Sparsh Srivastava (playing the role of Sunny). The story is interesting and suspenseful along with some moments of humor that make it a thrilling film.
Have you seen the movie Jamtara? How did you like its story on cyber crime and the portrayal of the characters involved in it?
7. Little Things
- Genre: Romance, Slice of Life
- Why Watch: “Little Things” starring Dhruv Sehgal and Mithila Palkar is a heartwarming story of a young couple dealing with the ups and downs of modern relationships. The series’ relatable scenario and charming chemistry make it a fan favorite.
Little Things is a sweet and heartwarming series that originally premiered on YouTube in 2016 and has now moved to Netflix. It is a refreshing take on modern relationships, focusing on the everyday moments and small gestures that make love and togetherness meaningful. The show revolves around the lives of Dhruv (played by Dhruv Sehgal) and Kavya (played by Mithila Palkar), a couple who navigate the ups and downs of their relationship while dealing with their individual aspirations, career choices, and personal growth.
What makes Little Things stand out is its authenticity. The series beautifully portrays the nuances of a young couple living together, dealing with the little things – like disagreements, compromises, or even the quiet moments of joy – that come with love. It’s not about grand, sweeping gestures but about the subtle, often overlooked moments that shape a relationship.
The chemistry between Dhruv and Kavya is natural and relatable, making their conversations feel very real. The show also explores themes such as career pressure, independence and how to balance personal goals with a relationship, all while keeping things light and grounded. It is both heartwarming and refreshing, offering a comfortable slice of life of young love in a way that resonates with a wide audience.
Little Things is often called a “feel good” show, and it’s one of those series that you can easily binge watch, and feel connected to the characters and their world.
Have you seen Little Things? How did you like the film which depicts Dhruv and Kavya’s relationship?
Top Indian Web Series on Amazon Prime Video
1. Mirzapur
- Genre: Action, Crime
- Why Watch: If you love raw and intense storytelling, “Mirzapur” is a must-watch. Set in the lawless land of Purvanchal, the series stars Pankaj Tripathi as Kaleen Bhaiya, a ruthless mafia don, alongside Ali Fazal and Divyendu Sharma. With its gripping storyline and explosive action, “Mirzapur” has become a cult favorite.
Mirzapur is one of the most popular and intense Indian crime thriller series, which was originally released on Amazon Prime Video in 2018. Set in the chaotic, violent world of Mirzapur, a city in Uttar Pradesh, the series dives deep into the power struggles, criminal empires, and political dynamics that shape the lives of its characters.
The show revolves around the rise of Kaleen Bhaiya (played by Pankaj Tripathi), the ruthless criminal of Mirzapur, and his son Munna (played by Vikrant Massey) who is eager to inherit the criminal empire despite his shortcomings. What follows is the story of two brothers, Guddu and Bablu (played by Ali Fazal and Vikrant Massey), who get entangled in the city’s violent underworld, leading to a tale of betrayal, vengeance, and a bloody battle for power.
The series is known for its strong storyline, strong acting and excellent writing. Pankaj Tripathi’s character as Kaleen Bhaiya is excellent, providing a perfect balance of menace and control, while the supporting cast – including actors like Divyendu Sharma (as Munna) and Shweta Tripathi (as Golu) – add depth to the narrative. The series also highlights issues such as corruption, loyalty and the brutal nature of organized crime.
Mirzapur is full of action, drama and suspense, with many twists and turns that keep the audience glued to their seats. It is also a commentary on power, revenge and how the criminal system works in India, showing a mix of ambition, greed and survival instincts.
The show has gained immense popularity due to its raw violence, memorable dialogues, and complex characters.
Have you watched Mirzapur? What did you think about the intense world of Mirzapur and its characters?
2. Paatal Lok
- Genre: Crime, Mystery
- Why Watch: This crime thriller produced by Anushka Sharma exposes the dark aspects of Indian society. Jaideep Ahlawat is brilliant as Hathiram Chaudhary, a rookie police officer who unravels a web of corruption and deceit. The series’ powerful portrayal of human nature and its socio-political commentary set it apart.
Paatal Lok is a dark and gripping crime thriller series that premiered on Amazon Prime Video in 2020. Produced by Sudip Sharma, the show is based on Tarun Tejpal’s novel The Story of My Assassins. The series dives into the dark world of crime, corruption, and class divide in India, drawing inspiration from the concept of “Paatal Lok” (underworld) in Hindu mythology, which symbolizes the dark, hidden, and sinister side of society.
The story revolves around Hathi Ram Chaudhary (played by Jaideep Ahlawat), a disillusioned and corrupt Delhi police officer who is assigned to investigate a failed assassination attempt on a prominent journalist. As Hathi delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a web of violence, political conspiracy, and class conflict that stretches far beyond what he initially imagined.
Paatal Lok is praised for its realism and compelling storytelling. It skillfully blends suspense, drama, and social commentary, exploring themes such as caste, class, systemic corruption, and the dark side of urban life. The series unflinchingly portrays the divide between “heaven” (the world of the elite) and “hell” (the underworld, where the marginalized and oppressed live). The tension between these worlds makes the show extremely engaging.
Jaideep Ahlawat’s performance as Hathi Ram is one of the highlights of the series – he brings a mix of vulnerability, grit and determination to the character, making him both complex and relatable. The show’s well-crafted storyline, strong performances from all the cast and exploration of real-world issues made it a critical success.
The series is also praised for its cinematic quality, suspenseful pacing, and ability to leave viewers thinking long after the episodes have ended.
Have you watched Paatal Lok? What did you think about its portrayal of the underworld and its themes?
3. The Family Man
- Genre: Action, Thriller
- Why Watch: Manoj Bajpayee plays Srikant Tiwari, a middle-class man who juggles his responsibilities as a family man and a secret agent. This spy thriller seamlessly blends humor, action, and emotional depth, making it one of the most loved Indian web series.
The Family Man is an action-packed, critically acclaimed Indian web series that premiered on Amazon Prime Video in 2019. Created by Raj and DK, the series has a healthy dose of espionage, drama, and dark comedy, making it one of the most engaging and well-rounded thrillers to come out of India in recent years.
The show stars Manoj Bajpayee as Srikant Tiwari, a middle-class man who works as an intelligence officer for the Threat Analysis and Surveillance Cell (TASC) of the National Investigation Agency (NIA). On the surface, Srikant tries to balance his high-stakes, secretive government job with the pressures of family life. However, as the series progresses, Srikant finds himself caught between thwarting major terrorist threats and dealing with the chaos in his personal life, especially with his wife, Suchi (played by Sharib Hashmi) and their children.
What makes The Family Man stand out is its combination of high-octane thriller elements and relatable, grounded family dynamics. While Srikant fights dangerous terrorists and tries to prevent national disasters, his struggles with his family, work-life balance and his own identity add a freshness to the series. The balance between action and personal moments in the show gives it depth, making it not just about the job but also the emotional and mental burden that Srikant faces.
Manoj Bajpayee’s performance as Srikant is brilliant by any measure- his ability to play both intense action sequences and tender family moments shows his versatility as an actor. Other lead actors like Sharib Hashmi, Priyamani and Sharib Hashmi have also given strong performances in this series.
The series was praised for its solid writing, strong direction and the way it tackles issues like terrorism, politics and the everyday struggles of a person trying to maintain his personal and professional life. It also touches upon the complexities of modern Indian society, ranging from the political landscape to the tensions between different communities.
The Family Man was so well received that it returned in 2021 with a much-awaited second season, continuing Srikant’s journey with even more intense stakes and character development.
Have you seen The Family Man? How did you like the mix of high-octane action and personal moments in it?
4. Made in Heaven
- Genre: Drama
- Why Watch: Created by Zoya Akhtar and Reema Kagti, “Made in Heaven” explores modern relationships and social norms from the perspective of a Delhi-based wedding planning company. With its nuanced storytelling and brilliant acting, the series offers a scathing critique of social hypocrisies.
Made in Heaven is a critically acclaimed Indian drama series that premiered on Amazon Prime Video in 2019. Created by Zoya Akhtar and Reema Kagti, the show takes an incisive, insightful look at the world of big, fat Indian weddings, but it’s about more than just the glamorous ceremonies. The series delves into the complexities of love, relationships, societal expectations, and the contrasting realities of modern India.
The story revolves around two wedding planners, Tara (played by Shobhita Dhulipala) and Karan (played by Arjun Mathur), who run a wedding planning business Made in Heaven in Delhi. While they organise lavish weddings for wealthy clients, they also deal with their own personal conflicts, such as class, caste, sexuality and their aspirations. The show is seamlessly a mix of personal drama and social commentary, where each episode revolves around a different wedding, highlighting the stark contrasts between the grandeur of the events and the underlying challenges faced by the characters involved.
The best aspect of Made in Heaven is that it showcases the grandeur of Indian weddings, while also using them as a backdrop to explore deeper social issues. The series draws attention to topics such as arranged marriages, infidelity, gender roles and expectations from women in Indian society, as well as showing the diversity and complexity of relationships.
Shobhita Dhulipala and Arjun Mathur have earned praise for their nuanced portrayals of their characters, and the acting is top-notch. The show is also notable for its stylish direction, the rich visual appeal of its wedding setting, and its ability to balance moments of humor, drama, and introspection.
Made in Heaven is both glamorous and grounded, taking a candid look at the contradictions of modern India – where tradition and modernity often collide. The series was praised for its progressive take on issues such as LGBTQ+ representation, casteism, and the complexity of marriage in contemporary society.
Have you seen Made in Heaven? What did you think about its portrayal of weddings and its darker themes?
5. Panchayat
- Genre: Comedy, Drama
- Why Watch: A heartwarming story of a young engineer named Abhishek Tripathi who reluctantly takes up a government job in a rural village. Starring Jitendra Kumar, “Panchayat” beautifully depicts the simplicity and charm of rural life, as well as the struggles of adjusting to the new environment.
Panchayat is a heartwarming and humorous Indian series that premiered on Amazon Prime Video in 2020. Produced by TVF (The Viral Fever) and directed by Deepak Kumar Mishra, the show is set in a rural village in Uttar Pradesh and follows the life of a young man named Abhishek Tripathi (played by Jitendra Kumar) who, after failing to find a high-paying job, reluctantly accepts a position as the secretary of the local panchayat (village council).
Abhishek is a bright and well-educated urban boy who initially has no interest in rural life but over time is forced to adjust to his new surroundings. The series follows his interactions with the quirky, sometimes frustrating, but lovable residents of the village, including the panchayat members, his boss, the village mukhiya (or pradhan), played by Raghubir Yadav, and his co-workers.
What makes Panchayat so special is its combination of humour, wit and restrained portrayal of rural India. It highlights the simplicity, challenges and peculiarities of village life, while also exploring themes of bureaucracy, government systems and the differences between urban and rural life. Abhishek’s character is relatable, as he gradually falls in love with the village and its people, despite his initial reluctance.
The show shines through in its portrayal of characters – especially Abhishek, who undergoes subtle changes over time. The supporting cast, which includes the likes of Neena Gupta, Faizal Malik and Chandan Roy, add layers of authenticity and charm to the series.
Panchayat is not based on any big drama or action; rather it is based on everyday situations that are often humorous as well as poignant. It depicts the quirks of small-town India and offers a fresh, refreshing look at rural life.
The show received rave reviews for its brilliant writing, strong performances from the cast and its light-hearted yet impactful approach to everyday challenges. It became popular among a wide audience due to its relatability and portrayal of an authentic rural experience.
Have you watched Panchayat? How did you like the portrayal of rural life and Abhishek’s visit to the village?
6. Tandav
- Genre: Political Drama
- Why Watch: “Tandav” starring Saif Ali Khan is a gripping tale of power, ambition and betrayal set against the backdrop of Indian politics. The series takes a deep and intriguing look at the machinations of those in power.
Tandav is a political thriller series that premiered on Amazon Prime Video in 2021. Created by Ali Abbas Zafar, the show is set in the high-stakes world of Indian politics and takes a dramatic, intense look at power struggles, manipulation, and the dark side of governance. The series explores themes of ambition, betrayal, and the ruthless pursuit of power, all set against the backdrop of Indian politics.
The story revolves around Saif Ali Khan’s character Samar Pratap Singh, a young and ambitious politician who hopes to become the Prime Minister. The story unfolds as he gets involved in the dangerous game of politics, dealing with rivals, alliances and manipulative forces, as well as personal and moral dilemmas. The series also depicts the lives of several other key political figures and their complex relationships, with Dimple (played by Kritika Kamra) and other characters adding complexity to the game of power.
One of the key elements of Tandav is its portrayal of the manipulative, often ruthless nature of politics, where everyone is trying to outwit each other to climb the ladder of power. The show takes a bold, no-holds-barred approach to depicting the realities of political maneuvering within the government and between various power factions.
Saif Ali Khan’s performance as the cunning Samar Pratap Singh was praised for its intensity, and the ensemble cast—which also includes Dimple Kapadia, Sunil Grover and Mohammed Zeeshan Ayyub—delivered strong performances. The series’ dark tone, as well as sharp writing, keeps viewers enthralled as the plot develops.
Tandav received mixed reviews regarding its pace and treatment of certain sensitive topics, but it certainly sparked discussions about power, ethics and the manipulation of public perception in politics. It also touches upon issues such as dynastic politics, the role of the media in shaping narratives and how the political system often prioritises personal gain over the public good.
Have you seen Tandav? What do you think about the portrayal of politics and power dynamics?
7. Hostel Daze
- Genre: Comedy, Drama
- Why Watch: This fun film on hostel life captures the essence of friendship, exams and the turmoil of college days. Produced by TVF, “Hostel Days” is a relatable and fun film for all those who have experienced hostel life.
Hostel Daze is a fun and relatable coming-of-age comedy series that premiered on Amazon Prime Video in 2019. Created by Saurabh Khanna and Abhishek Yadav, the series takes a light-hearted look at the lives of college students living in a hostel, exploring the ups and downs of hostel life, friendships, and the challenges of adapting to adulthood.
The show is set in a college hostel, and it follows the lives of four main characters: Ankit (played by Adarsh Gourav), a shy and introverted fresher; Akanksha (played by Ahsaas Channa), a spirited and outspoken girl; Jaat (played by Nikhil Vijay), a carefree and mischievous student; and their other friends. They deal with various fun, chaotic, and sometimes challenging moments that come up while living in the hostel – from dealing with weird roommates and strict wardens to dealing with new friendships, crushes, and their academic pressures.
Hostel Daze appeals to many viewers, especially those who have experienced hostel life, as it perfectly captures the blend of humour, awkwardness, freedom and growth that comes with living away from home for the first time. It explores themes such as friendship, first love, independence and finding your place in the world, all set in a quirky and relatable hostel environment.
The humour of the show, along with its vintage elements (be it the horrible hostel food, pranks or late-night conversations), makes it a fun show to watch. It is light but also touches upon the complexities of growing up, especially during the college years. The performances of the cast, especially Nikhil Vijay and Ahsaas Channa, have brought a real and fun atmosphere to the series, giving it a youthful energy.
The series also reflects the dynamics of college life, with episodes touching on topics such as exams, friendship and the struggle for independence, while also depicting the rules and routines of hostel life. It has an authentic, quiet charm that makes it worth watching repeatedly.
Have you watched Hostel Daze? How did you feel it depicted the fun (and sometimes frustrating) aspects of hostel life?
What Makes These Series Special?
Indian web series on Netflix and Amazon Prime have successfully broken away from traditional storytelling formats. They offer:
- Diverse Themes: From crime and thriller to life and romance, the variety is unmatched.
- Strong Characters: These series focus on well-rounded characters with depth and relatability.
- Bold Storytelling: Themes such as corruption, social norms and personal struggles are depicted without any censorship.
- High Production Value: With international level production quality, these series offer a cinematic experience.
Conclusion
Indian web series on Netflix and Amazon Prime have redefined entertainment with their unique storylines and memorable acting. Whether you want to watch a gripping thriller or a heartwarming drama, these platforms are for you. So grab some popcorn, pick a series from this list and dive into the world of Indian web content. Happy binge-watching!