The Indian web series has exploded in recent years offering a wide array of content ranging from thrillers and drama to comedy and romance. With so many shows to choose from, it can be overwhelming for newcomers to know where to begin. If you’re new to the world of desi web series, don’t worry. This guide will help you navigate through the best shows across different genres so you can dive into the world of Indian digital content with ease.
Comedy and Light-hearted Shows:
If you’re looking for something funny, light-hearted, and entertaining, start with these popular comedies:
- “Permanent Roommates” (TVF)
A perfect starting point for those who want to enjoy a mix of comedy and romance. The series follows the journey of a young couple navigating their long-distance relationship and the challenges that come with it. - “Panchayat” (Amazon Prime Video)
A charming rural comedy that blends humor with social commentary. The series centers on an urban engineer who’s forced to work in a small village as a panchayat secretary and deals with the quirky characters in the village. - “TVF Tripling” (TVF)
This fun show revolves around three siblings who embark on a road trip to reconnect with each other, dealing with their differences and family dynamics along the way.
Thrillers and Suspense:
For fans of thrillers, suspense, and gripping storylines, these web series will keep you hooked:
- “Sacred Games” (Netflix)
Based on Vikram Chandra’s novel, this show is a thrilling journey into the underworld of Mumbai, combining crime, suspense, and political intrigue. It’s gritty, dark, and a must-watch for thriller fans. - “Mirzapur” (Amazon Prime Video)
A high-intensity crime drama set in the lawless region of Mirzapur, this series offers brutal action, power struggles, and gripping storytelling. - “The Family Man” (Amazon Prime Video)
This action-packed spy thriller follows a middle-class man who works for a covert counter-terrorism unit, balancing his professional and personal life in a series of high-stakes situations.
Drama and Emotional:
For those who love deep emotional storytelling, here are a few excellent choices:
- “Made in Heaven” (Amazon Prime Video)
A drama that follows the lives of two wedding planners in Delhi. This series explores the complexities of relationships, societal expectations, and the clash between tradition and modernity. - “Delhi Crime” (Netflix)
Based on true events, this series focuses on the investigation of the horrific 2012 Delhi gang rape case. It’s a gripping, emotional, and hard-hitting portrayal of a difficult chapter in Indian history. - “Little Things” (Netflix)
A sweet, slice-of-life show about the everyday struggles and joys of a couple living together in Mumbai. The series highlights the beauty of small moments in relationships.
Romance and Love Stories:
For romantic shows with a mix of heartwarming moments and drama, check out these options:
- “Mismatched” (Netflix)
A young adult romance series that explores the love story between two college students who are as different as night and day. It’s a cute, feel-good show with a modern take on romance. - “Four More Shots Please!” (Amazon Prime Video)
Focusing on the lives of four women in Mumbai, this show explores their careers, friendships, and love lives in a mix of humor and drama, offering a refreshing take on female relationships. - “Kehne Ko Humsafar Hai” (Zee5)
A mature, romantic drama about the complexities of relationships and love, this series follows the story of a couple who are facing challenges in their marriage.
Family and Slice-of-Life Shows:
If you prefer family-oriented shows with a blend of humor and drama, these picks are ideal:
- “The Aam Aadmi Family” (TVF)
A light-hearted series about a middle-class family’s everyday life. It’s heartwarming and relatable, with funny moments and a charming narrative. - “Pyaar Ke Papad” (Zee5)
A comedy-drama that highlights the challenges faced by a couple from different cultural backgrounds trying to marry. The series is funny yet brings out the intricacies of Indian family dynamics. - “Chacha Vidhayak Hain Humare” (Amazon Prime Video)
A sitcom that follows the misadventures of a young man who tries to live a larger-than-life persona, believing he is the nephew of a local politician. It’s funny, light, and perfect for a family audience.
Crime and Investigation:
For fans of crime and detective stories, check out these gripping series:
- “Breathe” (Amazon Prime Video)
A psychological thriller about a father’s desperate attempts to save his son’s life, leading him into morally grey territories. It’s a tense, edge-of-your-seat series. - “Criminal Justice” (Disney+ Hotstar)
A crime drama that delves deep into the investigation of a murder case. It explores themes of justice, law, and the complexities of human nature. - “The Forgotten Army” (Amazon Prime Video)
Set in World War II, this historical drama follows the journey of the Azad Hind Fauj and its fight for India’s independence, blending crime, history, and action.
Action and Adventure:
If you’re in the mood for action-packed shows, these will deliver:
- “Bard of Blood” (Netflix)
A spy thriller about an ex-RAW agent who is sent on a mission to rescue hostages from an enemy nation. The series is full of action, suspense, and intense moments. - “Inside Edge” (Amazon Prime Video)
Set against the backdrop of a fictional cricket league, this series explores the politics, scandals, and power struggles within the world of sports. - “Taj: Divided by Blood” (Zee5)
A historical drama filled with palace intrigue, power plays, and the fight for the Mughal throne, making for a highly dramatic and action-packed series.
Documentaries and Reality Shows:
For those interested in real-life stories and documentaries, these series are ideal:
- “Lal Kaptaan” (Netflix)
A historical drama series that takes viewers back to the era of the Marathas, blending fiction with historical facts. - “The Last Dance” (Netflix)
While not Indian, this documentary series about Michael Jordan’s Chicago Bulls dynasty has been widely appreciated for its storytelling and insight into sports. - “Indian Matchmaking” (Netflix)
A reality show that follows a matchmaker as she sets up clients with potential spouses. It’s both entertaining and eye-opening, offering a glimpse into the traditional matchmaking system in India.
The Indian web series landscape is vast and varied, catering to every kind of viewer. Whether you’re into comedy, thrillers, romance, or something else, there’s something for everyone. As a beginner, start with the genres you’re most drawn to, and gradually explore other types of shows to find your favorites. Happy binge-watching!
