Indian cinema has been serving up some of the world’s most intricate and culturally rich thrillers these past few years. Netflix’s 2025 slate is no exception, and a wide variety of engaging and intriguing stories that are sure to please the inner-thriller in everybody. Whether you like political conspiracies, psychological thrillers or survival stories, here’s an ultimate guide to the best Indian thrillers on Netflix that you can’t miss this year.
1. The Diplomat (2025)
Genre: Political Thriller Director: Not specified Starring: John Abraham Release Date: May 9, 2025
Set against the tense backdrop of India-Pakistan relations, The Diplomat delves into the psychological and ethical challenges faced by diplomats during high-stakes situations. John Abraham delivers a compelling performance in this timely narrative that mirrors real-life geopolitical dynamics. (@EconomicTimes)
2. Khakee: The Bengal Chapter (2025)
Genre: Crime Drama Director: Neeraj Pandey Starring: Jeet, Prosenjit Chatterjee Release Date: March 2025
A standalone sequel to Khakee: The Bihar Chapter, this series shifts focus to Bengal’s unique “pada” culture, exploring the intertwining of neighborhood clubs and political power. With intense performances and a gripping narrative, it’s a must-watch for crime drama aficionados. (Wikipedia, Decider)
3. Pushpa 2: The Rule (2024)
Genre: Action Thriller Director: Sukumar Starring: Allu Arjun Release Date: Late 2024
Following the journey of Pushpa from a laborer to a smuggling kingpin, this sequel boasts record-breaking box office success and features some of the most creative fight sequences in recent cinema. Allu Arjun’s charismatic performance is a highlight. (Polygon)
4. Black Warrant (2025)
Genre: Prison Thriller Director: Not specified Starring: Not specified Release Date: January 2025
Based on the memoir “Black Warrant: Confessions of a Tihar Jailer,” this series offers an unflinching look into one of India’s largest prison complexes. Through the eyes of a new jailer, viewers navigate the perils and dramas within Tihar Jail. (Decider)
5. Jaane Jaan (2023)
Genre: Mystery Thriller Director: Sujoy Ghosh Starring: Kareena Kapoor Khan, Jaideep Ahlawat, Vijay Varma Release Date: September 21, 2023
An adaptation of the Japanese novel “The Devotion of Suspect X,” this film follows a single mother entangled in a murder investigation. With stellar performances, it became the most-watched Indian film on Netflix in 2023. (Wikipedia)
6. Khufiya (2023)
Genre: Spy Thriller Director: Vishal Bhardwaj Starring: Tabu, Ali Fazal, Wamiqa Gabbi Release Date: October 5, 2023
Inspired by Amar Bhushan’s espionage novel “Escape to Nowhere,” this film centers on a RAW operative tracking a mole selling defense secrets. Tabu’s portrayal adds depth to this tale of espionage and personal conflict. (Wikipedia)
7. Bhakshak (2024)
Genre: Crime Thriller Director: Pulkit Starring: Bhumi Pednekar, Sanjay Mishra Release Date: February 9, 2024
Drawing from the real-life Muzaffarpur shelter case, this film follows an investigative journalist’s quest for justice. Bhumi Pednekar delivers a powerful performance in this hard-hitting narrative. (Wikipedia)
8. Kaala Paani (2023)
Genre: Survival Thriller Director: Not specified Starring: Ashutosh Gowariker, Mona Singh Release Date: October 2023
Set in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, this series explores a community’s fight for survival amidst a mysterious outbreak. Its unique setting and gripping storyline have earned it a renewal for a second season. (Wikipedia)
9. Maharaja (2024)
Genre: Crime Thriller Director: Not specified Starring: Vijay Sethupathi Release Date: 2024
Vijay Sethupathi shines in this tale of a barber’s vengeful journey. Blending dark humor with a razor-sharp mystery, it’s a cinematic experience that keeps viewers hooked. (IFORHER)
10. Lucky Bhaskar (2024)
Genre: Thriller Director: Not specified Starring: Dulquer Salmaan Release Date: 2024
Dulquer Salmaan takes center stage in this gripping tale of gold and survival. The role of Lucky Bhaskar which he had essayed has a dapper and an adapting quality for the viewers.
Indian detective shows on Netflix are a way to get in on some of that action. Whether you’re into political dramas or survival stories, there’s something on this list for every type of thriller lover. Closer home Read on and savour the best of Indian suspense short stories.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Are these Indian thrillers available worldwide on Netflix? Yes, most of these titles are available globally. However, availability may vary by region.
Q2: Are English subtitles available for these films and series? Yes, Netflix provides English subtitles for its international content, including Indian thrillers.
Q3: Which of these thrillers are based on true events? Bhakshak is inspired by the Muzaffarpur shelter case, and Black Warrant is based on a memoir detailing experiences in Tihar Jail.(Wikipedia)
Q4: Are there sequels or related series to these thrillers? Yes, Khakee: The Bengal Chapter is a standalone sequel to Khakee: The Bihar Chapter, and Pushpa 2: The Rule is a sequel to Pushpa: The Rise.(Decider)
Q5: Which thriller is best for fans of espionage stories? Khufiya offers a deep dive into the world of espionage, focusing on a RAW operative’s mission to uncover a mole.(Wikipedia)