Mystery thriller is a movie genre, which has found its own sweet spot in Indian film industry, with tales that are riddled with suspense, cultural oddities and characters to root for. Boasting a wide variety of international and domestic thrillers from all over the world, Netflix is home to a vast selection of stories that are sure to get your heart racing all the way through. This guide explores some Indian standouts in the mystery thriller space on Netflix in 2025 and takes a deep dive into what sets them apart and why they should earn a place on your watchlist.
Top Indian Mystery Thrillers on Netflix
1. Jaane Jaan (2023)
- Director: Sujoy Ghosh
- Cast: Kareena Kapoor Khan, Jaideep Ahlawat, Vijay Varma
- Synopsis: An adaptation of Keigo Higashino’s novel The Devotion of Suspect X, this film follows a single mother entangled in a murder investigation, with a neighbor’s assistance adding layers of complexity.
- Why Watch: Praised for its tight screenplay and stellar performances, Jaane Jaan became Netflix’s most-watched Indian film in 2023, garnering over 20 million views. (Wikipedia)
2. Kohrra (2023)
- Creators: Sudip Sharma, Gunjit Chopra, Diggi Sisodia
- Cast: Suvinder Vicky, Barun Sobti
- Synopsis: Set in Punjab, this series unravels the mystery behind an NRI groom’s murder, delving into familial secrets and societal issues.
- Why Watch: Acclaimed for its atmospheric storytelling and deep character exploration, Kohrra won multiple awards, including Best Director and Best Actor at the Filmfare OTT Awards. (Wikipedia)
3. CTRL (2024)
- Director: Vikramaditya Motwane
- Cast: Ananya Panday, Vihaan Samat
- Synopsis: A tech thriller where an AI assistant app begins to control a user’s life, leading to a deeper conspiracy.
- Why Watch: Blending elements of Her and Black Mirror, CTRL offers a timely exploration of technology’s impact on personal lives, with Ananya Panday delivering a standout performance. (Decider)
4. Murder Mubarak (2024)
- Director: Homi Adajania
- Cast: Pankaj Tripathi, Karisma Kapoor, Sara Ali Khan
- Synopsis: Set in a Delhi country club, a murder investigation reveals secrets among the elite.
- Why Watch: While receiving mixed reviews, the film’s ensemble cast and satirical take on high society offer an engaging watch. (Wikipedia, Decider)
5. IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack (2024)
- Director: Anubhav Sinha
- Cast: Vijay Varma, Naseeruddin Shah, Pankaj Kapur
- Synopsis: A dramatization of the 1999 hijacking of Indian Airlines Flight 814, exploring the political and emotional turmoil of the event.
- Why Watch: The series offers a gripping portrayal of a significant historical event, with strong performances and a compelling narrative. (Wikipedia)
6. Raat Akeli Hai (2020)
- Director: Honey Trehan
- Cast: Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Radhika Apte
- Synopsis: A small-town cop investigates the murder of a newlywed groom, uncovering family secrets.
- Why Watch: This noir-inspired thriller stands out for its atmospheric tension and strong performances, earning critical acclaim. (Wikipedia, Wikipedia)
7. Guns & Gulaabs (2023)
- Creators: Raj & DK
- Cast: Rajkummar Rao, Dulquer Salmaan
- Synopsis: Set in the 90s, this series combines crime and comedy, following misfits in a world of crime and love.
- Why Watch: With its unique blend of genres and nostalgic setting, the series offers a fresh take on crime thrillers. (Wikipedia)
8. Khakee: The Bengal Chapter (2025)
- Director: Neeraj Pandey
- Cast: Parambrata Chattopadhyay, Saswata Chatterjee
- Synopsis: A police officer battles crime and corruption in Bengal, facing challenges within and outside the system.
- Why Watch: The series provides a gritty look into law enforcement’s struggles, with intense action and strong character arcs. (Decider)
9. Black Warrant (2025)
- Based on: Sunil Gupta’s memoir “Black Warrant: Confessions of a Tihar Jailer”
- Synopsis: An inside look at Tihar Jail through the eyes of a new jailer, exploring the complexities of prison life.
- Why Watch: The series offers a rare glimpse into India’s prison system, highlighting moral dilemmas and institutional challenges. (Decider)
Why Indian Mystery Thrillers on Netflix Stand Out
Indian mystery thrillers on Netflix distinguish themselves through:
- Cultural Depth: Incorporating local traditions, societal norms, and regional settings, these stories offer authenticity and relatability.
- Complex Characters: Protagonists often grapple with personal demons, adding layers to the narrative.
- Social Commentary: Many thrillers address issues like corruption, gender dynamics, and class disparities.
- Innovative Storytelling: Blending genres and experimenting with narrative structures keeps the content fresh and engaging.(Decider)
For fans of suspense and elaborate stories, Indian mystery thrillers on Netflix offer an abundant and rich tapestry of stories that are highly entertaining and also cringe-worthy at times. Authentic in culture and universal in themes, these movies and series are a reflection of India’s changing film industry.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Are these titles available globally on Netflix? Most of the mentioned titles are available worldwide. However, availability can vary by region. It’s advisable to check your local Netflix library.
Q2: Are English subtitles available for non-Hindi content? Yes, Netflix typically provides English subtitles for its content, including regional Indian films and series.
Q3: Which series is best for fans of psychological thrillers? CTRL offers a deep dive into the psychological impact of technology, making it a top pick for fans of the subgenre.(Decider)
Q4: Are these shows suitable for family viewing? Many of these thrillers contain mature themes and are best suited for adult audiences. Viewer discretion is advised.
Q5: How often does Netflix update its Indian thriller content? Netflix regularly updates its library with new Indian content. Keeping an eye on the platform’s “New Releases” section is a good way to stay informed.
