Netflix Hindi Originals: The Best Web Series You Need to See
Hindi-language content on Netflix has exploded in popularity, offering a diverse range of stories that resonate with audiences both in India and globally. From gripping crime thrillers to heartwarming dramas and hilarious comedies, Netflix’s Hindi originals cater to a wide spectrum of tastes. This article delves into some of the best web series the platform has to offer, highlighting their key strengths, target audience, and why they deserve a spot on your watchlist.
Sacred Games (2018-2019): The Godfather of Indian Streaming
Often credited with revolutionizing the Indian web series landscape, Sacred Games is a neo-noir crime thriller based on Vikram Chandra’s 2006 novel of the same name. Directed by Vikramaditya Motwane and Anurag Kashyap, the series follows Inspector Sartaj Singh (Saif Ali Khan), a cynical Mumbai police officer, who receives a cryptic phone call from gangster Ganesh Gaitonde (Nawazuddin Siddiqui), informing him that Mumbai will be destroyed in 25 days.
- Strengths: Sacred Games boasts a compelling narrative that weaves together mythology, politics, and crime. The dual timelines, one following Sartaj’s investigation and the other showcasing Gaitonde’s rise and fall, create a captivating viewing experience. The performances are exceptional, with Khan and Siddiqui delivering career-defining roles. The show also features strong supporting characters played by Radhika Apte, Kalki Koechlin, and Pankaj Tripathi. The gritty realism, dark humor, and exploration of complex themes like faith, power, and corruption make it a must-watch.
- Target Audience: Fans of crime thrillers, neo-noir, and Indian mythology will find Sacred Games particularly engaging. The series also appeals to those interested in stories that delve into the underbelly of Mumbai and explore the socio-political landscape of India.
- Why Watch: Sacred Games set a new benchmark for Indian web series production. Its complex plot, stellar performances, and thought-provoking themes make it a truly unforgettable viewing experience. It’s a benchmark series that defines the quality of Hindi content on Netflix.
Delhi Crime (2019-Present): A Gripping Police Procedural
Inspired by the 2012 Delhi gang rape case, Delhi Crime is a crime drama series that follows Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Vartika Chaturvedi (Shefali Shah) and her team as they investigate the heinous crime. Created by Richie Mehta, the first season focuses on the meticulous investigation and the relentless pursuit of the perpetrators. The second season tackles a different crime, focusing on the “Kacha-baniyan gang” and the challenges faced by the police in solving complex cases.
- Strengths: Delhi Crime is praised for its realistic portrayal of police work, its sensitive handling of a difficult subject matter, and its strong female lead. Shefali Shah delivers a powerful performance as DCP Vartika Chaturvedi, portraying her as a dedicated officer struggling to balance her personal life with the demands of her job. The series avoids sensationalism and focuses on the procedural aspects of the investigation, highlighting the challenges and complexities faced by the police force. The writing is sharp, the direction is taut, and the performances are uniformly excellent.
- Target Audience: Delhi Crime appeals to fans of crime dramas, police procedurals, and true crime stories. The series also resonates with those interested in social issues and stories that highlight the challenges faced by women in India.
- Why Watch: Delhi Crime is a compelling and thought-provoking series that offers a realistic glimpse into the world of law enforcement in India. Its sensitive handling of a difficult subject matter and its strong female lead make it a standout in the crime drama genre. It won the International Emmy Award for Best Drama Series, solidifying its place as one of the best Indian web series ever made.
Jamtara: Sabka Number Ayega (2020-Present): The Phishing Capital of India
Jamtara: Sabka Number Ayega is a crime drama series based on true events in Jamtara, Jharkhand, which has become infamous as the phishing capital of India. The series follows a group of young men who run a lucrative phishing scam, targeting unsuspecting victims across the country. The series explores the socio-economic factors that contribute to the prevalence of cybercrime in the region, as well as the challenges faced by law enforcement in combating it.
- Strengths: Jamtara offers a fascinating and insightful look into the world of cybercrime in India. The series is well-researched and provides a realistic portrayal of the phishing scams that originate from Jamtara. The performances are strong, particularly from the young actors who play the scammers. The series also explores the political corruption and social inequality that contribute to the problem. The fast-paced narrative and the suspenseful plot keep viewers engaged.
- Target Audience: Jamtara appeals to fans of crime dramas, thrillers, and stories that explore social issues. The series also resonates with those interested in technology and cybercrime.
- Why Watch: Jamtara is a timely and relevant series that sheds light on a growing problem in India. Its realistic portrayal of cybercrime and its exploration of the socio-economic factors that contribute to it make it a must-watch for anyone interested in understanding the digital landscape of India.
She (2020-Present): Undercover and Under Pressure
She is a crime drama series created by Imtiaz Ali, starring Aaditi Pohankar as Bhumika Pardeshi, a female constable who goes undercover to expose a drug cartel. The series explores Bhumika’s journey of self-discovery as she navigates the dangerous world of crime and grapples with her own sexuality.
- Strengths: She is praised for its unique premise and its exploration of female empowerment. Aaditi Pohankar delivers a compelling performance as Bhumika, portraying her transformation from a timid constable to a confident and resourceful undercover agent. The series explores themes of sexuality, identity, and power dynamics in a nuanced and thought-provoking way. The plot is engaging, and the suspense is well-maintained.
- Target Audience: She appeals to fans of crime dramas, thrillers, and stories that focus on female empowerment. The series also resonates with those interested in exploring themes of sexuality and identity.
- Why Watch: She offers a fresh perspective on the crime drama genre, with a strong female lead and a compelling storyline. Its exploration of female empowerment and its nuanced portrayal of sexuality make it a standout series.
Kota Factory (2019-Present): The IIT Aspirant’s Tale
While the first season was on YouTube, Netflix acquired the rights for subsequent seasons. Kota Factory is a coming-of-age drama series that follows Vaibhav Pandey, a 16-year-old student who moves to Kota, Rajasthan, the coaching hub of India, to prepare for the IIT entrance exam. The series explores the pressures faced by students in Kota, the competitive environment, and the friendships they forge along the way.
- Strengths: Kota Factory is praised for its realistic portrayal of student life in Kota. The series captures the anxieties, pressures, and aspirations of students preparing for the IIT entrance exam. The characters are relatable, and the performances are authentic. The black-and-white cinematography adds to the nostalgic feel of the series. The series also offers a subtle commentary on the education system in India.
- Target Audience: Kota Factory appeals to students, parents, and anyone who has experienced the pressures of the Indian education system. The series also resonates with those interested in coming-of-age stories and stories about friendship.
- Why Watch: Kota Factory is a heartwarming and insightful series that offers a realistic glimpse into the lives of students in Kota. Its relatable characters, authentic performances, and subtle commentary on the education system make it a must-watch for anyone who has experienced the pressures of academic life in India.
Mismatched (2020-Present): Finding Love in the Tech World
Mismatched is a romantic comedy series based on Sandhya Menon’s novel When Dimple Met Rishi. The series follows Dimple Ahuja, an ambitious young woman who dreams of becoming a tech innovator, and Rishi Singh Shekhawat, a hopeless romantic who is looking for his future wife. The two are forced to work together at a summer program for aspiring app developers.
- Strengths: Mismatched is a lighthearted and entertaining series that explores the complexities of modern relationships. The series features a diverse cast of characters, each with their own unique personalities and quirks. The performances are charming, and the chemistry between the leads is palpable. The series also offers a glimpse into the world of app development and the challenges faced by young entrepreneurs.
- Target Audience: Mismatched appeals to young adults, fans of romantic comedies, and those interested in stories about love, friendship, and self-discovery.
- Why Watch: Mismatched is a feel-good series that is perfect for a lighthearted binge-watch. Its charming characters, engaging storyline, and exploration of modern relationships make it a delightful viewing experience.
Ghoul (2018): A Supernatural Thriller with a Political Edge
Ghoul is a horror mini-series set in a dystopian future where terrorism is rampant. The series follows Nida Rahim, a newly recruited military officer who turns in her own father as
