The Rise of Indian Thrillers on Netflix
Indian cinema has evolved enormously with thrillers gaining dominance as a genre that keeps the audience on the edge of its collective seats. One of Netflix’s international film slates is what it calls Indian thrillers, which range from intense and dark to brooding and dark with a mix of variety that extends to crime, psychology, and the supernatural. In this post, we are going to let you know about some of the best Indian thrillers you can watch on Netflix to experience how the genre has evolved.
1. Khufiya (2023)
Director: Vishal Bhardwaj Starring: Tabu, Ali Fazal, Wamiqa Gabbi Genre: Spy Thriller Runtime: 157 minutes(Wikipedia, IFORHER)
Adapted from Amar Bhushan’s best-selling novel Escape to Nowhere, Khufiya is a cloak and dagger suspense drama which revolves around the life of a RAW (Research and Analysis Wing) agent suspected of nabbing a mole in the organization selling defence secrets. It was a film that smartly wove personal and professional stakes to give a textured depiction of loyalty and betrayal. (Wikipedia)
2. Jaane Jaan (2023)
Director: Sujoy Ghosh Starring: Kareena Kapoor Khan, Jaideep Ahlawat, Vijay Varma Genre: Mystery Thriller Runtime: 139 minutes(Wikipedia, IFORHER)
An adaptation of Keigo Higashino’s The Devotion of Suspect X, Jaane Jaan follows a single mother entangled in a murder investigation. The film’s intricate plot and powerful performances make it a standout in the thriller genre. (Wikipedia)
3. Sector 36 (2024)
Director: Aditya Nimbalkar Starring: Vikrant Massey Genre: Crime Thriller(GQ India, Wikipedia)
Loosely inspired by the Nithari killings, Sector 36 presents a chilling narrative of a serial killer investigation. Vikrant Massey’s portrayal of the lead investigator adds depth to this gripping tale. (GQ India)
4. CTRL (2024)
Director: Vikramaditya Motwane Starring: Ananya Panday, Vihaan Samat Genre: Tech Thriller(IFORHER, Decider)
CTRL explores the dark side of technology, following an influencer who uses an AI assistant to erase her ex-boyfriend from her digital life, only to face unforeseen consequences. The film offers a timely commentary on AI and privacy. (Decider)
5. Khakee: The Bengal Chapter (2025)
Director: Neeraj Pandey Starring: Saswata Chatterjee, Parambrata Chattopadhyay Genre: Crime Drama(Wikipedia, Decider)
A standalone sequel to Khakee: The Bihar Chapter, this series delves into the nexus of crime and politics in Bengal. With high production values and intense performances, it’s a must-watch for crime drama enthusiasts. (Decider)
6. IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack (2024)
Director: Anubhav Sinha Starring: Vijay Varma, Naseeruddin Shah, Pankaj Kapur Genre: Historical Thriller(Wikipedia, IFORHER)
This mini-series recounts the harrowing 1999 hijacking of Indian Airlines Flight 814. With a stellar cast and gripping narrative, it offers a deep dive into one of India’s most traumatic events. (Wikipedia)
7. Murder Mubarak (2024)
Director: Homi Adajania Starring: Pankaj Tripathi, Karisma Kapoor, Sara Ali Khan Genre: Mystery Thriller Runtime: 142 minutes(Wikipedia)
Adapted from Anuja Chauhan’s novel Club You to Death, this film follows a murder investigation in an elite Delhi club. The ensemble cast delivers compelling performances in this whodunit. (Wikipedia)
8. Raat Akeli Hai (2020)
Director: Honey Trehan Starring: Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Radhika Apte Genre: Crime Drama Runtime: 149 minutes(Wikipedia, Decider, @EconomicTimes)
A small-town cop investigates the murder of a wealthy family’s patriarch on the night of his wedding. The film’s noir aesthetic and intricate plot make it a standout thriller.
9. Pushpa 2: The Rule (2024)
Director: Sukumar Starring: Allu Arjun Genre: Action Thriller(Polygon, Wikipedia)
The sequel to Pushpa: The Rise continues the story of Pushpa’s ascent in the red sandalwood smuggling world. Known for its intense action sequences, the film has become a massive hit. (Polygon)
10. Kohrra (2023)
Directors: Randeep Jha, Sudip Sharma Starring: Suvinder Vicky, Barun Sobti Genre: Crime Drama(IFORHER)
Set in Punjab, Kohrra follows two cops investigating the murder of an NRI groom. The series delves into complex family dynamics and societal issues, offering a layered narrative. (IFORHER)
The Future of Indian Thrillers on Netflix
The landscape of Indian thrillers on Netflix is transitioning towards different kinds of narratives that disrupt the status-quo of storytelling. A mix of old-world themes and contemporary topics, these films and series make way for a gripping tapestry of murder and mystery. With the further development of technology as well as storytelling methods, we may see more innovative work in the future.
FAQ: Darkest Indian Thrillers on Netflix
Q1: Are these thrillers suitable for international audiences? Yes, many of these films and series have universal themes and are available with subtitles, making them accessible to a global audience.
Q2: Do these thrillers contain graphic content? Some titles, like Sector 36 and Pushpa 2, contain intense scenes. Viewer discretion is advised.(GQ India)
Q3: Are these based on true events? Yes, titles like IC 814: The Kandahar Hijack and Khufiya are inspired by real incidents.(Wikipedia)
Q4: Can I watch these thrillers with family? While some titles are family-friendly, others contain mature content. It’s recommended to check the ratings and reviews before viewing.
Q5: Are there any upcoming Indian thrillers on Netflix? Yes, Netflix continues to expand its Indian content library, with several thrillers slated for release in the coming months.
