Netflix Shows About Indians: What's Worth Watching?

So, you’ve heard people talking about those Indian shows on Netflix, but you’re not sure what the fuss is about? Netflix has really upped its game with Indian series, and they’re so much more than song-and-dance routines. From gritty crime stories to sweet rom-coms, there’s a whole world beyond Bollywood waiting for you to explore right on your screen.

One big reason Netflix’s Indian content grabs attention? These shows mix real-life issues with sharp storytelling, not just glossy fantasy. Ever wondered what it’s like inside a police investigation in Delhi? Curious about the clash between tradition and modern life in Mumbai? You’ll get a taste of it all—and it feels raw and relatable, even for people who aren’t from India.

The cool part is, you don’t have to know much about Indian culture to get hooked. Subtitles are there for a reason, and so many viewers outside India are already loving these stories. If you’re stuck scrolling and can’t decide what to try next, you might find your new favorite series comes from halfway across the globe.

• Why Indian Shows Are a Hit on Netflix
• Top Picks: Must-Watch Indian Series
• What's Different About Netflix's Indian Originals?
• True Stories, Real Issues
• Choosing the Right Indian Show for You

Why Indian Shows Are a Hit on Netflix

Streaming platforms have changed how the world watches TV, and Netflix India leads the pack when it comes to connecting global audiences with Indian stories. Netflix didn't just toss a few Indian titles into its library and call it a day. In 2023, India was Netflix’s fastest-growing market in Asia. The country added about 5 million new subscribers that year alone. That’s a huge deal for a platform that’s used to slow growth in mature markets.

One reason for this success? Indian shows on Netflix tap into topics and genres that classic TV and Bollywood movies often skip. People want something real—shows like “Delhi Crime” and “Sacred Games” take viewers on a wild ride through true crime, politics, and city chaos that’s actually based on real events. A lot of folks have said they watch Indian series because they feel raw and different, like they’re getting an inside look at the country’s ups and downs without any filter.

Netflix's Indian originals also put a spotlight on actors who were once overlooked. It’s not just the big Bollywood stars. There are brilliant newcomers and character actors who get a shot at good roles here.

Check out this snapshot of just how big Indian shows have gotten on Netflix in the last few years:

No surprise, more people outside India are also tuning in. In fact, around 30% of the viewership for some top Indian Netflix shows now comes from the U.S., UK, and other countries. Subtitles and easy dubbing make it possible for anyone to jump in—even if you don’t speak a word of Hindi.

If you’re the kind of person who gets bored of the same old formula on TV, Netflix’s Indian lineup brings something fresh to the table. And it’s not slowing down—the streamer is investing more every year in new Indian stories that push boundaries.

Top Picks: Must-Watch Indian Series

If you want to dive into the world of Netflix India, there are a few shows you really shouldn’t miss. These series aren’t just popular in India—they’ve picked up fans all over the globe. Here’s the inside scoop on a few that always come up in conversations, along with some numbers to show just how massive they really are.

• Sacred Games: This gritty crime thriller features Saif Ali Khan and Nawazuddin Siddiqui. It’s loaded with suspense, politics, and a dark look at Mumbai’s underbelly. Fun fact—this was Netflix’s first Indian original and took over timelines worldwide when it dropped in 2018.
• Delhi Crime: It’s based on a real investigation into the infamous 2012 Delhi gang-rape case. What stands out here is the attention to detail and the no-nonsense detective played by Shefali Shah. In 2020, it won the International Emmy for Best Drama Series—the first Indian show to do so.
• Kota Factory: Not your typical classroom drama, this one’s about teenagers navigating the brutal competitive world of engineering exam prep in the town of Kota. It’s filmed in black and white and nails the vibes of student life like nothing else.
• Little Things: Think modern romance, but relatable. This slice-of-life drama is about an everyday couple figuring out work, relationships, and adulting. It's a chill watch for when you just want something heartwarming.
• Jamtara – Sabka Number Ayega: Ever wondered how scam calls work behind the scenes? This crime drama digs into rural India’s phishing worlds, turning real headlines into nail-biting television.

If you like numbers, check this out:

Quick tip: Most of these shows also have English audio or subtitles, so you won’t miss out on any details even if Hindi isn’t your thing. Give them a shot and you’ll see why these stories are reshaping what’s possible in Indian entertainment on Netflix.

What's Different About Netflix's Indian Originals?

If you’re thinking Netflix’s Indian shows are just like old-school Bollywood movies, you’re in for a surprise. Netflix India has broken a lot of stereotypes with its original content. First off, these shows often tackle heavier topics—think corruption, crime, social pressures, and family drama—without the filters or censors you’d see in traditional TV.

Take Netflix India hit series like "Delhi Crime" or "Sacred Games". They dig deep into real-life events or dark corners of society. "Delhi Crime" is inspired by a true crime case and even won the 2020 International Emmy for Best Drama Series—the first Indian show to do that! "Sacred Games", on the other hand, made global headlines for its raw language, wild storytelling, and a cast loaded with talent like Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Saif Ali Khan.

Another standout? Netflix gives creators a lot more freedom, letting them show things that might get cut on regular Indian TV. You’ll notice bolder stories, more diverse topics, and even some controversial scenes—stuff that just wouldn’t fly on a traditional channel. "Leila" and "Taj Mahal 1989" are good examples. They lean into topics like politics, religion, and relationships without sugarcoating anything.

Here’s something practical: these originals don’t follow the usual long-drawn-out format of endless episodes. Most series have 6–10 episodes per season, making it way easier to binge-watch without getting tired or lost. And you’re not stuck with just one genre. You’ll find everything from black comedies to gritty drama.

You might be curious about numbers. Here’s a quick comparison of Netflix Indian originals’ reach in 2024:

If you want plotlines and characters that feel more realistic, and maybe insights into real problems people face in India, Netflix's Indian originals are the way to go. Plus, the subtitles are easy to follow, making the shows super accessible if you don’t speak Hindi or other Indian languages.

True Stories, Real Issues

Netflix’s Indian shows love digging into real-life challenges, and that’s honestly what sets many apart. They don’t just gloss over problems—some series go straight for the jugular, shedding light on big topics like crime, inequality, gender, and politics. Take “Delhi Crime” for example. This drama is based on the 2012 Delhi gang rape and the police investigation that followed. It’s gripping, tough, and even won the International Emmy Award for Best Drama Series in 2020. The accuracy and depth of its portrayal had people talking for weeks.

Another eye-opener is “Leila,” a dystopian drama inspired by Prayaag Akbar’s novel. It paints a harsh picture of caste, water scarcity, and government power. While fictional, its themes hit close to home for many viewers, sparking conversations about social divides in Indian society.

Social issues aren’t just for dramas, though. “Indian Matchmaking” might seem like reality TV fun, but it quietly explores deep-rooted cultural norms like arranged marriages, family expectations, and class divisions. That mix of raw honesty and entertainment keeps viewers glued to the screen.

Here’s a quick look at some of the most-talked-about Indian Netflix shows based on actual events and tough issues:

Looking for a show that’s more than just entertainment? Start with stories inspired by real events. Not only do they open your eyes to what folks in India deal with every day, but they also help you understand why these series are such a big deal in the Netflix India lineup. If you want to see the human side of headlines, there’s really nothing else like it on your watchlist.

Choosing the Right Indian Show for You

With Netflix putting so much effort into its Indian lineup, it can feel overwhelming to pick the series that's truly worth your time. Instead of jumping in blind, here’s how you can narrow things down and find exactly what fits your taste.

Start by thinking about what kind of mood you’re in. Indian crime dramas like Sacred Games and Delhi Crime get a ton of buzz. Delhi Crime even snagged an International Emmy in 2020. If you want something more feel-good, try Little Things or Kota Factory—both are great for lighter, real-life stories without the high-stakes drama.

Don’t ignore Netflix India originals. These aren’t just dubbed shows—these are big-budget projects made specifically for a streaming global audience, often featuring well-known Indian actors and directors. They tend to focus on urban life, social issues, or unique local flavors you wouldn’t catch in a typical Bollywood movie.

Need numbers to back up those picks? Check out this quick table showing how some of the top Indian Netflix shows stack up on international awards and viewer ratings:

If you’re not sure about jumping into something long, try watching the trailers or the first episode. Netflix’s “My List” feature is pretty handy here—just bookmark what looks interesting and see what sticks. If you like nonfiction, look out for Indian made documentaries on Netflix like Bad Boy Billionaires: India which dives into real business scandals.

• If crime and suspense call you, Delhi Crime or Sacred Games are both top starts.
• Want romance or comedy? Little Things and Mismatched keep things light.
• Craving something social and relatable? Kota Factory or Yeh Kaali Kaali Ankhein hit the mark for coming-of-age and quirky drama fans.
• Ready for real-life drama? Don’t skip the docuseries section under the India category.

The main thing? Don’t get stuck thinking you need to know Indian culture beforehand. Good stories break barriers, and with subtitles, you’re only a few clicks away from a different perspective that might just blow your mind.

Sienna Hawthorne

I am an entertainment journalist with a passion for Indian cinema. Writing allows me to dive deep into the diverse world of film, and I often explore the cultural nuances and storytelling aspects of Bollywood and regional films. My work involves interviewing filmmakers, attending screenings, and reviewing the narrative techniques that shape modern Indian cinema.