Why Indian Thrillers on Netflix Are a Must-Watch
Indian cinema is quickly becoming a global phenomenon, and Netflix has become the perfect platform for the most riveting thrillers from the subcontinent. These movies run the gamut from the psychological mind-benders to the intense crime dramas, offering a blend of storytelling, performances, and linguistic and cultural details that have you on the edge of your seat.
Top 10 Indian Thrillers on Netflix in 2025
1. Jaane Jaan (2023)
- Director: Sujoy Ghosh
- Starring: Kareena Kapoor Khan, Jaideep Ahlawat, Vijay Varma
- Genre: Mystery Thriller
- 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 harboring secrets of his own.
- Why Watch: Stellar performances and a gripping narrative make this a standout thriller.(Wikipedia)
2. Khufiya (2023)
- Director: Vishal Bhardwaj
- Starring: Tabu, Ali Fazal, Wamiqa Gabbi
- Genre: Spy Thriller
- Synopsis: Based on Amar Bhushan’s novel “Escape to Nowhere,” the film delves into the life of a RAW operative tracking down a mole selling defense secrets.
- Why Watch: A nuanced portrayal of espionage with a strong female lead.(Wikipedia)
3. Bhakshak (2024)
- Director: Pulkit
- Starring: Bhumi Pednekar, Sanjay Mishra
- Genre: Crime Thriller
- Synopsis: Inspired by the Muzaffarpur shelter case, an investigative journalist uncovers the horrors within a girls’ shelter home.
- Why Watch: A hard-hitting narrative shedding light on real-life atrocities.(Wikipedia, Time)
4. CTRL (2024)
- Director: Vikramaditya Motwane
- Starring: Ananya Panday, Vihaan Samat
- Genre: Tech Thriller
- Synopsis: A woman uses an AI assistant to erase her ex from her digital life, only to find the AI taking control in unexpected ways.
- Why Watch: A modern take on technology’s influence on personal lives.(Decider)
5. IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack (2024)
- Director: Anubhav Sinha
- Starring: Vijay Varma, Naseeruddin Shah
- Genre: Historical Thriller
- Synopsis: A dramatized account of the 1999 hijacking of Indian Airlines Flight 814, exploring the political and emotional turmoil of the incident.
- Why Watch: A gripping retelling of a significant event in Indian history.(Wikipedia, IFORHER)
6. Murder Mubarak (2024)
- Director: Homi Adajania
- Starring: Pankaj Tripathi, Karisma Kapoor, Sara Ali Khan
- Genre: Mystery Thriller
- Synopsis: Based on Anuja Chauhan’s novel “Club You To Death,” the film revolves around a murder in a high-society club and the ensuing investigation.
- Why Watch: A whodunit with a star-studded cast and intriguing plot.(Wikipedia, Wikipedia)
7. Shaitaan (2024)
- Starring: Ajay Devgn, R. Madhavan
- Genre: Supernatural Thriller
- Synopsis: A family encounters a stranger with a dark secret, leading to a series of chilling events.
- Why Watch: A blend of horror and suspense with powerful performances.(IFORHER)
8. Lucky Bhaskar (2024)
- Starring: Dulquer Salmaan
- Genre: Crime Thriller
- Synopsis: A tale of greed and survival as a man finds himself entangled in a web of crime and deception.
- Why Watch: A captivating story with a standout performance by Salmaan.(IFORHER, IFORHER)
9. Sector 36 (2024)
- Starring: Vikrant Massey
- Genre: Crime Thriller
- Synopsis: A gritty narrative following a cop’s pursuit of a serial killer, delving into the dark underbelly of crime.
- Why Watch: An intense and realistic portrayal of crime investigation.(IFORHER)
10. The Buckingham Murders (2024)
- Starring: Kareena Kapoor Khan
- Genre: Mystery Thriller
- Synopsis: A detective investigates a murder in Buckinghamshire, uncovering secrets that hit close to home.
- Why Watch: A compelling narrative with a strong emotional core.(Wikipedia)
Dive into the World of Indian Thrillers
These Indian thrillers on Netflix range from true crime-inspired stories to fiction that leaves the audience guessing. With scorching performances and captivating plots, they are a sign of the changing face of Indian cinema. So, if you’ve got a bowl of popcorn and a few hours to spare, check out these edge-of-your-seat thrillers.
FAQs: Your Questions Answered
Q1: Are these films available globally on Netflix?
Yes, most of these titles are available for streaming globally. However, availability may vary based on regional licensing agreements.
Q2: Are English subtitles available for these films?
Absolutely! Netflix provides English subtitles for its international content, ensuring accessibility for a global audience.
Q3: Are these films suitable for all age groups?
While some films may be suitable for a general audience, others contain mature themes and are rated accordingly. It’s advisable to check the film’s rating and content warnings before viewing.
Q4: How often does Netflix update its Indian thriller collection?
Netflix frequently updates its library with new content. Indian thrillers are added regularly, reflecting the dynamic nature of the industry.
Q5: Can I download these films for offline viewing?
Yes, Netflix allows users to download content for offline viewing on supported devices.