There is a jarveeewn replete with the Indian psyche… and there’s nothing more we love than a thought-provoking psychological thriller that questions our very existence and tells stories that go beyond just being a simple thriller. Thanks to the advent of streaming services, such as Netflix, the world’s access to such harrowing tales has also widened. Here, we take a look at some of the most intriguing Indian psychological thrillers streaming on Netflix that will keep you hooked and play with your head.(GQ India)
1. HIT: The Third Case (2025)
- Language: Telugu
- Director: Sailesh Kolanu
- Cast: Nani, Srinidhi Shetty
Based on the third chapter of the bestselling HIT series, written by famous writer and director Hriday Shetty, the series is that of an imprisoned Arjun Sarkar, investigating a dark case under the consultancy of the head of his own HIT team, Kaiser Ali Shah. The deeper Arjun digs, the more links emerge to ritual killings and organ smuggling, with stunning revelations about his trusted associates. The film is enjoyed its strong plot and performances especially Nani, but viewers were warned of its dark and violent (Indiatimes)
2. Game Over (2019)
- Language: Tamil, Telugu, Hindi
- Director: Ashwin Saravanan
- Cast: Taapsee Pannu
‘Game Over’ is based on Swapna, a game designer with PTSD, who is pitted in a life and death game of survival. As she fights physical and psychological demons, reality and illusion blur. “This is one of those never before seen thrillers shared from the victims side, the mental trauma and the toll it takes on the victim. Taapsee kills here with her body posrure and eyes. (GQ India)
3. Karthik Calling Karthik (2010)
- Language: Hindi
- Director: Vijay Lalwani
- Cast: Farhan Akhtar, Deepika Padukone
This psychological thriller centers on Karthik, an introverted man who begins receiving cryptic phone calls from a man claiming to be him. As his sense of self and success grow, the calls themselves get darker, resulting in a tense exploration of identity and mental health. It was definitely a unique plot and Farhan Akhtar’s portrayal of the part is remarkable.
4. Badla (2019)
- Language: Hindi
- Director: Sujoy Ghosh
- Cast: Amitabh Bachchan, Taapsee Pannu
In ‘Badla’ a successful businesswoman is charged with murder and must enlist the help of a legendary lawyer to clear her name. As the tangled and contradictory evidence unfolds, secrets begin to emerge, and no one is above suspicion. A masterclass in suspense with great performances and a story that keeps you guessing unti the end.
5. Talaash (2012)
- Language: Hindi
- Director: Reema Kagti
- Cast: Aamir Khan, Rani Mukerji, Kareena Kapoor
‘Talaash’ follows Inspector Shekhawat as he explores the life of rags-to-riches story of the film actor whose death he is investigating. While working the case, he’s dealing with his own grief and meets a mysterious woman who triggers him to face his own demons. There is crime, drama and the supernatural, resulting in a moving meditation on loss and redemption.(Netflix)
6. The Girl on the Train (2021)
- Language: Hindi
- Director: Ribhu Dasgupta
- Cast: Parineeti Chopra, Aditi Rao Hydari
Based on Paula Hawkins’ bestselling novel, this adaptation follows Mira, a troubled woman who becomes entangled in a missing person’s investigation. As she delves deeper, her own past and mental state come into question, leading to a suspenseful and emotionally charged narrative.
7. Irul (2021)
- Language: Malayalam
- Director: Naseef Yusuf Izuddin
- Cast: Fahadh Faasil, Soubin Shahir
‘Irul’ is a minimalist thriller set in a secluded mansion where a couple seeks shelter during a storm, only to find themselves in the company of a mysterious stranger. As secrets unravel, the film keeps viewers on edge with its claustrophobic setting and psychological tension.
8. A Ranjith Cinema (2021)
- Language: Malayalam
- Director: Nishanth Sattu
- Cast: Aswin Jose, Mareena Michael
This film follows a young man who, after a series of personal setbacks, becomes obsessed with a mysterious woman. As his infatuation grows, the line between reality and fantasy blurs, leading to unexpected and unsettling consequences.
9. Merry Christmas (2023)
- Language: Hindi, Tamil
- Director: Sriram Raghavan
- Cast: Katrina Kaif, Vijay Sethupathi
Set against the backdrop of Christmas Eve, this thriller brings together two strangers whose chance encounter leads to a night of revelations and unexpected twists. With its noir aesthetic and gripping narrative, ‘Merry Christmas’ offers a fresh take on the psychological thriller genre.
10. Bhool Bhulaiyaa (2007)
- Language: Hindi
- Director: Priyadarshan
- Cast: Akshay Kumar, Vidya Balan
A blend of horror and psychological thriller, ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa’ revolves around a haunted mansion and the mysterious behaviors of its inhabitants. As a psychiatrist investigates, he uncovers deep-seated traumas and secrets. The film is renowned for Vidya Balan’s stellar performance and its intricate plot.
From a family drama to a light-hearted story, the Indian psychological thrillers streaming on Netflix have a lot to offer with their entangling storylines. Identity crises and mental health struggles; storylines that juxtapose reality and illusion; the films upon this list are gripping and thought-provoking experiences that will force you to grapple with what you believe to be true. If you’re a fan of the genre, or even a beginner searching for great stories, the above titles are bound to have you hooked.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Are these films suitable for all age groups? Most psychological thrillers contain mature themes and may not be suitable for younger audiences. It’s advisable to check the film’s rating and content warnings before viewing.
Q2: Are English subtitles available for non-Hindi films? Yes, Netflix provides English subtitles for most of its international content, including regional Indian films.(Netflix)
Q3: Can I watch these films outside India? Availability may vary based on regional licensing agreements. However, many of these titles are accessible in multiple countries.
Q4: Are there more Indian psychological thrillers on other platforms? Absolutely. Platforms like Amazon Prime Video, ZEE5, and Disney+ Hotstar also host a variety of Indian psychological thrillers worth exploring.
Q5: What makes Indian psychological thrillers unique? Indian psychological thrillers often blend cultural nuances, complex character studies, and intricate plots, offering a distinct flavor that sets them apart from their global counterparts.