Though commercial Indian cinema, in particular Indian thrillers, get all the exposure, there are many hidden gems that can be unearthed in the Netflix library. From twisted fantasies to brand new worlds, these films and series boast stories, characters and culture rich enough to compete with their high profile counterparts: So to help you through your anxiety attack, here are some nail-biting but lesser-known Indian thrillers you can stream right now by both veterans and newbies to the field.

1. Khufiya (2023)

Helmed by Vishal Bhardwaj, Khufiya is a slow-paced espionage thriller, which traces the journey of RAW agent Krishna Mehra as he tries to unmask a mole within the agency. Throughout, Krishna also has to battle and fight her own personal dichotomies that add an emotional dimension to her spygame. Its sophisticated plot and powerhouse performances make it classic in the genre of spy thriller.(Pinkvilla, Wikipedia)

2. Bhakshak (2023)

Loosely based on a true story, Bhakshak traces the journey of reporter Vaishali Singh on her mission to expose abuse in a shelter home. Her search for the truth brings her into conflict with powerful enemies intent on preserving the dark secret of a vision nearly ten years old. Based on the power-packed storyline and Bhumi Pednekar’s stunning performance, the film unfolds around the systemic issues and therefore it is a treat to the eyes for thrillers’ fanatics with a social concern. (GQ India)

3. Footfairy (2020)

Footfairy is a psychological thriller that explores the dark psyche of a serial killer with a peculiar fetish. CBI Inspector Vivaan Deshmukh, portrayed by Gulshan Devaiah, embarks on a chilling pursuit of a murderer targeting young women in Mumbai. The film’s eerie atmosphere and suspenseful storytelling keep viewers on edge throughout. (GQ India)

4. Sector 36 (2024)

Loosely based on the Nithari killings, Sector 36 stars Vikrant Massey as an unhinged serial killer. The film delves into the gruesome crimes committed in a Delhi suburb, offering a chilling portrayal of real-life horror. Its gritty narrative and Massey’s intense performance make it a compelling watch for true crime enthusiasts. (GQ India)

5. CTRL (2024)

Directed by Vikramaditya Motwane, CTRL is a tech thriller that examines the consequences of AI integration into daily life. The story follows influencer Nella, who uses an AI assistant to erase her ex-boyfriend from her digital life, only to find herself entangled in a sinister conspiracy. The film’s timely commentary on technology’s impact and Ananya Panday’s strong performance make it a standout. (Decider)

6. Raat Akeli Hai (2020)

Raat Akeli Hai is a noir-inspired murder mystery set in a small town. Inspector Jatil Yadav, played by Nawazuddin Siddiqui, investigates the murder of a wealthy patriarch on his wedding night. As secrets unravel, the film explores themes of patriarchy and societal norms, offering a layered and suspenseful narrative. (English Jagran)

7. Talvar (2015)

Based on the real-life Noida double murder case, Talvar presents multiple perspectives on a complex investigation. Directed by Meghna Gulzar and featuring Irrfan Khan, the film delves into the intricacies of the legal system and media influence. Its Rashomon-style storytelling challenges viewers to question the nature of truth and justice. (India Today)

8. Choked (2020)

Anurag Kashyap’s Choked centers on a bank cashier who discovers a stash of cash in her kitchen sink amidst India’s demonetization. The film explores themes of financial struggle and moral dilemmas, offering a tense and thought-provoking narrative that reflects on contemporary societal issues. (Wikipedia)

9. Irul (2021)

Irul is a minimalist mystery thriller set in a secluded house during a stormy night. Starring Fahadh Faasil, the film unravels a tense narrative involving a couple and a stranger, blurring the lines between trust and suspicion. Its atmospheric setting and tight storytelling create an engaging viewing experience. (Wikipedia)

10. Rekha (2023)

Rekha follows a young woman’s descent into violence and the underworld after a traumatic event. Set in a small town, the film explores themes of love, revenge, and survival. Its raw portrayal of a woman’s transformation in the face of adversity offers a gripping narrative. (Wikipedia)

These ten lesser-known Indian thrillers on Netflix present narratives ranging from psychological, social, and moral complications. Every movie offers a different outlook, and makes one think about interesting, entertaining narratives to fall into. * Note: Exploring beyond blockbuster hits, audiences can find a variety of film offerings that showcase the diversity of Indian storytelling.(TechnoSports Media Group)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Are these films available on Netflix worldwide?

Availability may vary by region due to licensing agreements. It’s advisable to check your local Netflix library for specific titles.

Q2: Are English subtitles available for these films?

Yes, most Indian films on Netflix offer English subtitles. You can enable them through the subtitle settings on your device.

Q3: Are these films suitable for all audiences?

These thrillers often contain mature themes, including violence and psychological tension. Viewer discretion is advised, and it’s recommended to check the film’s rating and content warnings before watching.

Q4: Can I find similar underrated thrillers in other Indian languages?

Absolutely. Indian cinema offers a plethora of regional thrillers in languages like Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Bengali. Exploring regional categories on Netflix can lead to discovering more hidden gems.

Q5: How can I stay updated on new Indian thrillers added to Netflix?

Following Netflix’s official social media channels, subscribing to newsletters, or regularly checking the “New Releases” section can help you stay informed about the latest additions to their library.