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Best Web Series to Watch in India in 2026

Aug 14, 2026

Esha Saxena

Remember when finding something to watch meant scrolling Netflix for 20 minutes before giving up and rewatching The Office? Now, with dozens of streaming platforms competing for your attention, decision fatigue has become part of the viewing experience.

This guide cuts through the endless scrolling. We’ve rounded up the best web series streaming in India across Netflix, Prime Video, Apple TV+, JioHotstar, Sony LIV, Zee5, and more. Every recommendation includes key details like IMDb ratings, seasons, episodes, and why it’s worth your time, so you can spend less time searching and more time watching.

Best Web Series at a Glance (Quick Picks)

Best Web Series on Netflix India

Netflix remains the premium streaming choice in India, with plans starting at Rs 149 per month for mobile-only access. As the world’s biggest paid subscription streaming platform, it combines acclaimed Indian originals with one of the deepest international content libraries available.

Best Overall: Sacred Games

Genre: Crime Thriller | IMDb: 8.5 | Seasons: 2 | Episodes: 16 | Language: Hindi | Runtime: 45-60 min per episode

Sacred Games follows Sartaj Singh, an honest but disillusioned Mumbai police officer, who receives a cryptic phone call from gangster Ganesh Gaitonde warning him that the city has 25 days before it faces destruction. The series interweaves two timelines, tracing Gaitonde’s rise through Mumbai’s criminal underworld while Sartaj races to prevent catastrophe.

Why watch: This was the series that made the world take Indian OTT seriously. Saif Ali Khan and Nawazuddin Siddiqui deliver career-defining performances, and the writing treats its audience with rare intelligence. Season 1 is among the finest television produced in India; Season 2, while divisive, is still worth the investment for the performances alone.

Best for: Viewers who appreciate layered crime narratives with political and philosophical depth.

Similar series: Paatal Lok, Mirzapur, Narcos.

Trivia: Sacred Games was Netflix’s first Indian original series and was nominated for an International Emmy Award.

Best for Students: Kota Factory

Genre: Drama | IMDb: 9.0 | Seasons: 3 | Episodes: 16 | Language: Hindi | Runtime: 30-40 min per episode

Kota Factory depicts life in India’s coaching hub through the eyes of Vaibhav, a 16-year-old who moves to Kota to prepare for IIT-JEE. The series is shot entirely in black and white, a creative choice that works because it strips away visual distraction and keeps the focus on the characters.

Why watch: Jitendra Kumar’s portrayal of Jeetu Bhaiyya has become iconic in Indian pop culture for a reason. The show captures the loneliness, camaraderie, and absurd pressure of competitive exam preparation with honesty rarely seen in Indian media. It never condescends to its young characters.

Best for: Students, parents, and anyone who remembers the stress of entrance exams.

Similar series: Aspirants, Laakhon Mein Ek, 12th Fail (film).

Best Thriller: Delhi Crime

Genre: Crime Drama | IMDb: 8.5 | Seasons: 2 | Episodes: 12 | Language: Hindi, English | Runtime: 45-50 min per episode

Based on the 2012 Delhi gang rape case, Delhi Crime follows DCP Vartika Chaturvedi and her team as they track down the accused in the days following the crime. Shefali Shah’s performance anchors one of the most difficult and important stories Indian television has told.

Why watch: Delhi Crime won the International Emmy Award for Best Drama Series, making it the first Indian show to receive this honor. It is an unflinching, procedural account that avoids sensationalism while never minimizing the gravity of what happened. Season 2 follows a different case involving killings of senior citizens and maintains the standard.

Best for: Viewers who appreciate true-crime procedurals with social weight.

Similar series: Criminal Justice, Paatal Lok, Mindhunter.

Kohrra

Genre: Crime Drama | IMDb: 8.2 | Seasons: 2 | Episodes: 12 | Language: Punjabi | Runtime: 45-55 min per episode

Set in Punjab, Kohrra follows two police officers investigating the murder of an NRI man just days before his wedding. What begins as a murder mystery evolves into an examination of masculinity, caste, and concealed truths within families and communities.

Why watch: Kohrra proves that some of India’s best stories are being told in regional languages. The Punjabi dialogue adds an authenticity that dubbed versions cannot replicate. Barun Sobti and Suvinder Vicky deliver raw, unglamorous performances. Season 2 (2026) continues the investigation format with a new case and the same depth.

Best for: Viewers tired of glossy, urban-centric crime dramas.

Similar series: Broadchurch, Mare of Easttown, Paatal Lok.

Also Worth Watching on Netflix India

Stranger Things | Sci-Fi Horror | IMDb 8.7 | 5 Seasons | English

The Duffer Brothers’ supernatural saga concluded its fifth and final season in late 2025 to record-breaking viewership. A cultural phenomenon that defined a generation of television.

Derry Girls | Comedy | IMDb 8.5 | 3 Seasons | English 

Five teenagers navigate the chaos of adolescence in 1990s Northern Ireland during the Troubles. The writing is ferociously funny, and the show treats its political backdrop with intelligence and heart rather than cheap drama. Three perfect seasons with a satisfying conclusion.

Black Mirror | Sci-Fi Anthology | IMDb 8.7 | 7 Seasons | English 

Each standalone episode examines a dark facet of modern technology. Not every episode hits, but the best ones (White Bear, San Junipero, USS Callister) are among the finest science fiction on any screen.

Mismatched | Romance Comedy | IMDb 7.2 | 3 Seasons | Hindi 

A lighter watch about two young people paired together by their families who could not be more different. Clean, entertaining, and popular with younger audiences.

Taskaree | Crime Thriller | IMDb 7.5 | 1 Season | Hindi 

A 2026 release following a smuggling network operating through India’s northern borders. Tight, well-paced, and benefits from strong supporting performances.

Wednesday | Comedy Horror | IMDb 8.1 | 2 Seasons | English 

Tim Burton’s reimagining of Wednesday Addams as a sharp, antisocial detective at a supernatural boarding school. Jenna Ortega’s deadpan delivery carries the entire show.

Money Heist (La Casa de Papel) | Heist Thriller | IMDb 8.2 | 5 Seasons | Spanish 

The Spanish heist thriller that became a global phenomenon. The first two seasons are exceptional; later seasons are enjoyable but less disciplined.

Squid Game | Thriller | IMDb 8.0 | 2 Seasons | Korean 

The most-watched series in Netflix history. A survival competition with searing commentary on economic inequality.

Dark | Sci-Fi Thriller | IMDb 8.8 | 3 Seasons | German 

A mind-bending time-travel mystery set across four timelines in a small German town. Demands attention and rewards it generously. Best watched with subtitles.

Best Web Series on Amazon Prime Video India

Prime Video offers great value at Rs 299 per month, bundled with Amazon shopping benefits, Prime Music, and Prime Reading. Its Indian original slate has grown into one of the most consistent in the market.

Best Overall: The Family Man

Genre: Action Thriller | IMDb: 8.7 | Seasons: 2 | Episodes: 19 | Language: Hindi | Runtime: 35-50 min per episode

Srikant Tiwari is a middle-class intelligence officer at TASC (Threat Analysis and Surveillance Cell) who struggles to balance his secret, high-stakes work with the demands of being an ordinary husband and father. Manoj Bajpayee plays him with warmth, comic timing, and quiet ferocity.

Why watch: The Family Man succeeds because it treats the domestic life as seriously as the espionage. Srikant is not a superhero. He is a man who forgets to buy groceries, lies to his wife about his job, and occasionally gets punched. Season 2 expanded the scope with a Tamil Nadu subplot featuring Samantha Ruth Prabhu in a career-redefining role. Season 3 has been long-awaited and is expected to arrive later in 2026.

Best for: Anyone who wants a thriller that also works as a family drama.

Similar series: Sacred Games, Special Ops, Homeland.

Best Comedy: Panchayat

Genre: Comedy Drama | IMDb: 8.9 | Seasons: 4 | Episodes: 40 | Language: Hindi | Runtime: 30-40 min per episode

Abhishek Tripathi, an engineering graduate with no better prospects, reluctantly takes up a job as panchayat secretary in the fictional village of Phulera in Uttar Pradesh. What follows is one of the most loved series in Indian OTT history.

Why watch: Panchayat succeeds through restraint. There are no dramatic twists, no villains, no forced conflicts. The comedy comes from observation, from the gap between Abhishek’s urban expectations and Phulera’s rhythms. By Season 4, Jitendra Kumar, Neena Gupta, and Raghubir Yadav have built characters so lived-in that watching an episode feels like visiting old friends. Panchayat Season 4 was the most-watched streaming original in India in the first half of 2025.

Best for: Comfort viewing. Suitable for the entire family.

Similar series: Gullak, Yeh Meri Family, TVF Pitchers.

Paatal Lok

Genre: Crime Thriller | IMDb: 8.0 | Seasons: 2 | Episodes: 17 | Language: Hindi | Runtime: 40-55 min per episode

A washed-up Delhi cop, Hathi Ram Chaudhary, gets the case of a lifetime when four suspects are arrested for the attempted assassination of a prominent journalist. As he digs deeper, the investigation exposes connections between the media, politics, organized crime, and caste hierarchies.

Why watch: Jaideep Ahlawat is extraordinary. He plays Hathi Ram with an exhaustion and stubbornness that feels entirely authentic. The show draws its name from Hindu mythology (Swarg Lok, Dharti Lok, Paatal Lok) and uses this framework to explore India’s stratified social world. Season 2 dropped in 2025 and continued the investigation format with new cases and the same unflinching tone.

Best for: Viewers who prefer their crime dramas with social commentary and moral complexity.

Similar series: Delhi Crime, Kohrra, True Detective.

Mirzapur

Genre: Crime Action | IMDb: 8.2 | Seasons: 3 | Episodes: 30 | Language: Hindi | Runtime: 40-60 min per episode

Set in the lawless city of Mirzapur in Uttar Pradesh, this series follows the Tripathi family’s iron grip on the region’s criminal empire and the young men who are drawn into its orbit. Pankaj Tripathi as Kaleen Bhaiyya has become one of Indian OTT’s most iconic characters.

Why watch: Mirzapur is maximalist. It is violent, loud, and unapologetic about its pulpy pleasures. Not every moment is subtle, but the performances (particularly Tripathi, Ali Fazal, and Divyenndu Sharma) elevate the material. The franchise is expanding into a theatrical film in 2026.

Best for: Fans of gangster sagas who do not mind graphic violence.

Similar series: Sacred Games, Gangs of Wasseypur (film), Narcos.

Aspirants

Genre: Drama | IMDb: 9.2 | Seasons: 3 | Episodes: 17 | Language: Hindi | Runtime: 30-45 min per episode

Three friends preparing for the UPSC civil services examination in Old Rajinder Nagar, Delhi. The series moves between their preparation days and the present, where success has brought its own complications.

Why watch: TVF has built a reputation for authentic portrayals of young India, and Aspirants is their finest work. The friendship between Abhilash, Guri, and SK is written with rare emotional intelligence. Season 3, released in 2026, follows Abhilash as a District Magistrate navigating the gap between idealism and bureaucratic reality.

Best for: UPSC aspirants, former aspirants, and anyone who values friendship-driven storytelling.

Similar series: Kota Factory, Laakhon Mein Ek, TVF Pitchers.

Also Worth Watching on Prime Video India

The Boys | Superhero Satire | IMDb 8.7 | 5 Seasons | English 

A brutal deconstruction of superhero culture where “supes” are corporate products and the real heroes are a band of ordinary humans fighting back. Season 5, the series finale, released in mid-2026 to massive viewership.

Reacher | Action Thriller | IMDb 8.1 | 3 Seasons | English 

Alan Ritchson plays Jack Reacher as Lee Child intended: a hulking, methodical ex-military investigator. Pure comfort television for action fans.

The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel | Comedy Drama | IMDb 8.7 | 5 Seasons | English 

A 1950s housewife discovers she has a talent for stand-up comedy. Rachel Brosnahan is magnetic, the writing is razor-sharp, and the production design is sumptuous.

Farzi | Crime Thriller | IMDb 8.0 | 1 Season | Hindi 

Shahid Kapoor as a struggling artist drawn into the world of counterfeiting, facing off against Vijay Sethupathi’s relentless cop. Stylish, fast-paced, and a hit with audiences. Season 2 is expected.

Sapne Vs Everyone | Drama | IMDb 9.2 | 2 Seasons | Hindi 

Two friends from humble backgrounds chase success in Mumbai through very different paths. TVF’s emotional storytelling at its best. Season 2 released in 2026.

Matka King | Crime Drama | IMDb 7.8 | 1 Season | Hindi 

Vijay Varma headlines a 2026 Prime Video original set in 1960s Mumbai, following a cotton trader who transforms the elite betting game into a massive underground empire.

Fleabag | Comedy Drama | IMDb 8.7 | 2 Seasons | English 

Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s two-season masterclass in breaking the fourth wall. Season 1 is sharp and raw; Season 2 is widely regarded as perfect television. The Hot Priest storyline became a cultural moment. Twenty-five episodes total, and not a wasted second among them.

A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms | Fantasy | IMDb 7.9 | 1 Season | English 

A prequel to Game of Thrones based on George R.R. Martin’s The Hedge Knight. Lighter in tone than its predecessor but rich in world-building.

Best Web Series on JioHotstar

Following the Reliance-Disney merger, JioHotstar has become India’s largest OTT platform by subscriber count, with an estimated 140 million users. It combines Disney+ content, Star India’s library, and a growing slate of JioHotstar Specials originals. For many Indian households, particularly those with Jio connections, JioHotstar serves as the default streaming platform.

Best Overall: Criminal Justice

Genre: Legal Drama | IMDb: 8.2 | Seasons: 3 | Episodes: 26 | Language: Hindi | Runtime: 40-50 min per episode

Adapted from the BBC series of the same name, Criminal Justice follows different criminal cases across seasons, each examining how the Indian legal system processes the accused. Pankaj Tripathi’s lawyer character, Madhav Mishra, has become a standout.

Why watch: Each season tells a self-contained story, making this easy to pick up at any point. The courtroom sequences are more grounded than most Indian legal dramas, and Tripathi brings a weary intelligence to a character who has seen the system fail too many times.

Best for: Legal drama enthusiasts. Each season works as a standalone.

Similar series: Delhi Crime, The Night Of, Broadchurch.

Special Ops

Genre: Espionage Thriller | IMDb: 8.3 | Seasons: 1 (+1 prequel) | Episodes: 8 | Language: Hindi | Runtime: 40-55 min per episode

Neeraj Pandey’s espionage thriller follows RAW officer Himmat Singh across 19 years and multiple countries as he tracks a mastermind behind several terrorist attacks on Indian soil. Kay Kay Menon delivers an intense, commanding performance.

Why watch: Special Ops has a cinematic ambition that sets it apart from most Indian web thrillers. It shoots across real international locations and treats its geopolitical context with seriousness. The prequel, Special Ops 1.5: The Himmat Story, fills in the backstory.

Best for: Fans of spy thrillers who want something with scale and authenticity.

Similar series: The Family Man, Homeland, The Spy.

Best New Series 2026: Pritam and Pedro

Genre: Comedy Crime Thriller | IMDb: TBC | Seasons: 1 | Episodes: 8 | Language: Hindi | Runtime: 35-45 min per episode

Rajkumar Hirani’s streaming debut. Pritam is a young, tech-savvy coding expert; Pedro is an old-school Goan police officer played by Arshad Warsi. After an unlikely encounter, the two team up to investigate a cybercrime case involving a minister’s family. Directed by Avinash Arun (Killa, Dahaad), with Vikrant Massey and Boman Irani in supporting roles.

Why watch: Hirani bringing his signature warmth, humor, and social messaging to long-form storytelling is an event. The series premiered on 3 July 2026 and immediately became JioHotstar’s most-watched series ever, trending across seven Indian languages. Arshad Warsi’s comic timing paired with a cybercrime plot gives the show a freshness that Hirani fans will appreciate. Vir Hirani makes his acting debut opposite Warsi.

Best for: Fans of Munna Bhai and 3 Idiots who want Hirani’s storytelling in a streaming format.

Similar series: Maamla Legal Hai, Panchayat, Special 26 (film).

Also Worth Watching on JioHotstar

Succession | Drama | IMDb 8.9 | 4 Seasons | English 

The Roy family battles for control of a global media and entertainment conglomerate. Four seasons of savage, precise writing about wealth, ego, and family dysfunction. Jesse Armstrong’s dialogue is a masterclass in power dynamics. One of the defining series of the 2020s.

Black Warrant | Crime Drama | IMDb 8.0 | 1 Season | Hindi 

Set inside Tihar Jail, this 2025 release follows a young officer navigating India’s most notorious prison. Raw, claustrophobic, and well-acted.

The Night Manager | Thriller | IMDb 7.1 | 2 Seasons | Hindi 

An Indian adaptation of the John le Carre novel (and BBC series), starring Anil Kapoor and Aditya Roy Kapur. Glossy, entertaining, though it lacks the subtlety of the original.

Resort | Drama | IMDb 7.4 | 1 Season | Tamil 

A 2026 JioHotstar original set in the high-pressure kitchen of a luxury resort. Strong performances and a contained, tense setting.

Best Web Series on Sony LIV

Sony LIV has built a reputation for producing some of the highest-rated original content on Indian OTT. Its library is smaller than Netflix or Prime Video, but the average quality is notably high. Plans start at approximately Rs 399 per month.

Best Overall: Scam 1992: The Harshad Mehta Story

Genre: Financial Thriller | IMDb: 9.3 | Seasons: 1 | Episodes: 10 | Language: Hindi | Runtime: 45-65 min per episode

Directed by Hansal Mehta, Scam 1992 tells the true story of stockbroker Harshad Mehta, who manipulated the Indian stock market in the early 1990s before the system caught up with him. Pratik Gandhi plays Harshad with a charisma and vulnerability that makes you root for a man you know is headed for ruin.

Why watch: At 9.3 on IMDb, Scam 1992 is the highest-rated Indian web series ever made, and the rating is earned. The writing transforms complex financial mechanics into gripping, accessible drama. Achint Thakkar’s score has become iconic. This is the single most essential Indian OTT viewing experience.

Best for: Everyone. Financial knowledge is not required. The show explains everything you need.

Similar series: The Big Short (film), Rocket Boys, Bad Banks.

Trivia: The show’s theme music became one of the most-used tracks on Indian Instagram reels within weeks of release.

Best Comedy: Gullak

Genre: Family Comedy | IMDb: 9.1 | Seasons: 4 | Episodes: 20 | Language: Hindi | Runtime: 25-35 min per episode

Gullak follows the Mishra family, a middle-class household navigating everyday financial pressures, sibling rivalries, and the small victories that define ordinary life. Narrated by a coin box (gullak), the show finds warmth and humor in the mundane.

Why watch: In a landscape dominated by thrillers and crime dramas, Gullak is a reminder that quiet stories can be just as powerful. The writing captures middle-class Indian family dynamics with an authenticity that will make you feel like you are watching your own household. Season 4, released in early 2026, maintains the standard.

Best for: Family viewing. Pairs well with chai and a lazy weekend.

Similar series: Panchayat, Yeh Meri Family, TVF Tripling.

Rocket Boys

Genre: Biographical Drama | IMDb: 8.7 | Seasons: 2 | Episodes: 16 | Language: Hindi | Runtime: 40-50 min per episode

The parallel stories of Homi Bhabha and Vikram Sarabhai, the architects of India’s nuclear and space programs. Jim Sarbh and Ishwak Singh bring intellect and warmth to two men whose vision shaped modern India.

Why watch: Rocket Boys treats scientific ambition with the gravity it deserves. The show is meticulously researched, the period detail is convincing, and the performances never descend into hero worship. Season 2 expands the story to include Abdul Kalam.

Best for: Science enthusiasts, history lovers, and anyone interested in India’s post-independence nation-building.

Similar series: Made in India: A Titan Story, Scam 1992, The Right Stuff.

Also Worth Watching on Sony LIV

Undekhi | Crime Thriller | IMDb 7.9 | 4 Seasons | Hindi 

A wedding celebration in the hills turns dark when a murder is witnessed. Multiple seasons have expanded the story into a complex web of power, cover-ups, and moral compromise.

Maharani | Political Drama | IMDb 8.1 | 3 Seasons | Hindi 

Huma Qureshi plays an uneducated housewife who is thrust into the Chief Minister’s chair by her ailing husband. The Bihar political setting is richly drawn.

Scam 2003: The Telgi Story | Financial Thriller | IMDb 7.8 | 1 Season | Hindi 

The companion piece to Scam 1992, following Abdul Karim Telgi’s counterfeit stamp paper racket. Not quite the same lightning, but strong performances and solid writing.

Best Web Series on Zee5

Zee5 has invested heavily in original content across Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Bengali, Marathi, and other Indian languages. Its crime and thriller originals have built a loyal following.

Best Overall: Sunflower

Genre: Dark Comedy Thriller | IMDb: 7.9 | Seasons: 2 | Episodes: 14 | Language: Hindi | Runtime: 25-30 min per episode

Set in the Sunflower housing society in Mumbai, this series follows an eccentric cast of residents who become suspects when a murder occurs in the building. Sunil Grover plays Sonu, an awkward, socially clumsy man who gets entangled in the investigation through sheer bad luck.

Why watch: Sunflower finds a tonal balance that most Indian comedies miss. It is funny without being slapstick, dark without being gratuitous. Sunil Grover, better known for his comedy specials, proves he can carry a nuanced dramatic role. The ensemble cast, including Ranvir Shorey, is uniformly excellent.

Best for: Fans of dark comedy and whodunits with Indian settings.

Similar series: Maamla Legal Hai, The White Lotus, Only Murders in the Building.

Rangbaaz

Genre: Crime Drama | IMDb: 8.2 | Seasons: 3 | Episodes: 22 | Language: Hindi | Runtime: 30-40 min per episode

Each season of Rangbaaz tells the story of a different real-life gangster from India’s hinterland. Saqib Saleem, Jimmy Shergill, and Vineet Kumar Singh have each headlined a season, bringing distinct personalities to their roles.

Why watch: Rangbaaz works because it treats its criminals as products of their environment rather than as caricatures. The small-town settings, regional dialects, and political undercurrents feel genuine.

Best for: Viewers who enjoy true-crime-inspired gangster stories with regional flavor.

Similar series: Mirzapur, Raktanchal, Gangs of Wasseypur (film).

Also Worth Watching on Zee5

Pitchers | Comedy Drama | IMDb 9.1 | 2 Seasons | Hindi 

Four friends quit their jobs to build a start-up. TVF’s sharp, relatable writing makes this essential viewing for anyone in the Indian tech ecosystem.

Brown | Neo-Noir Crime Thriller | IMDb 7.0 | 1 Season | Hindi 

Karisma Kapoor’s 2026 comeback as a disgraced cop investigating a case in Kolkata. Directed by Abhinay Deo.

Abhay | Crime Thriller | IMDb 8.0 | 3 Seasons | Hindi 

Kunal Kemmu as a police officer who dives into the minds of criminals. Procedural and intense.

Patriot | Spy Thriller | IMDb TBC | 1 Season | Malayalam 

A 2026 release starring Mammootty and Mohanlal in a spy thriller. Two legends of Indian cinema sharing the screen on OTT is an event in itself.

Best Web Series on Apple TV+

Apple TV+ is a smaller library compared to Netflix or Prime Video, but its hit rate is remarkably high. Nearly every original series on the platform has received critical acclaim. Subscriptions are available in India at Rs 99 per month, making it one of the most affordable premium platforms.

Best Overall: Severance

Genre: Sci-Fi Thriller | IMDb: 8.7 | Seasons: 2 | Episodes: 19 | Language: English | Runtime: 45-55 min per episode

At biotechnology corporation Lumon Industries, employees can surgically separate their work memories from their personal memories. Mark Scout, a grieving widower, has opted into the procedure. When his “innie” (work self) begins to question the arrangement, both halves of his life start unraveling.

Why watch: Severance is unlike anything else on television. The premise sounds like a thought experiment, but the execution transforms it into a deeply human story about identity, grief, and corporate control. Adam Scott’s dual performance is extraordinary. The production design, with its sterile, maze-like office corridors, creates an atmosphere of dread that lingers long after each episode. Season 2 raised the stakes without losing the show’s philosophical core.

Best for: Viewers who want something genuinely original and are willing to sit with ambiguity.

Similar series: Black Mirror, Westworld, Dark.

Best Spy Thriller: Slow Horses

Genre: Spy Thriller | IMDb: 8.3 | Seasons: 5 | Episodes: 30 | Language: English | Runtime: 40-50 min per episode

At MI5’s Slough House, a group of disgraced intelligence officers handles dead-end assignments under the leadership of Jackson Lamb, a slovenly, brilliant, and ruthless spy played by Gary Oldman. When real threats emerge, these “slow horses” prove they are far more capable than anyone gives them credit for.

Why watch: Gary Oldman delivers arguably the finest television performance of his career. Jackson Lamb is repulsive, sharp, and strangely magnetic. The writing, adapted from Mick Herron’s novels, moves at a pace that respects the audience’s intelligence. Each season adapts a different novel, so story arcs resolve satisfyingly. Slow Horses has earned a perfect 100% score on Rotten Tomatoes for multiple seasons.

Best for: Fans of John le Carre and intelligent espionage that prioritizes tradecraft over explosions.

Similar series: The Night Manager, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy (film), Berlin Station.

Best New Series 2026: Widow’s Bay

Genre: Comedy Horror | IMDb: 8.1 | Rotten Tomatoes: 98% | Seasons: 1 | Episodes: 7 | Language: English | Runtime: 36-42 min per episode

Tom Loftis is the skeptical mayor of Widow’s Bay, a small New England island town afflicted by a centuries-old curse that brings supernatural evils upon its residents. As bizarre and dangerous events escalate, Tom must protect his community while remaining stubbornly unconvinced that anything supernatural is actually happening.

Why watch: Widow’s Bay premiered on 29 April 2026 and immediately became one of the most acclaimed series of the year, earning 19 Emmy nominations including Outstanding Comedy Series. Created by Katie Dippold (Parks and Recreation) and directed by Hiro Murai (Atlanta), the show balances genuine horror and sharp comedy with a confidence that most genre hybrids never achieve. Matthew Rhys leads a stacked cast that includes Stephen Root, Kate O’Flynn, and Dale Dickey. Apple TV+ has already renewed it for a second season after it climbed to the number one spot on the platform’s viewership charts.

Best for: Fans of horror-comedy who appreciate strong ensemble casts and original storytelling.

Similar series: What We Do in the Shadows, The Haunting of Hill House, Wellington Paranormal.

Trivia: Variety called it a successful transplant of the horror-comedy hybrid from the big screen to television.

Silo

Genre: Sci-Fi | IMDb: 8.1 | Seasons: 2 | Episodes: 20 | Language: English | Runtime: 45-55 min per episode

Ten thousand people live in a giant underground silo, following strict rules they believe protect them from the toxic wasteland outside. When the silo’s sheriff dies under mysterious circumstances, engineer Juliette Nichols begins questioning everything.

Why watch: Rebecca Ferguson brings quiet intensity to a role that demands both physical toughness and emotional depth. The world-building is meticulous, each level of the silo reflecting a different social stratum. Adapted from Hugh Howey’s bestselling novels, Season 2 expanded the story’s scope significantly.

Best for: Fans of slow-burn dystopian fiction and series that reward patience.

Similar series: Snowpiercer, The 100, Severance.

Also Worth Watching on Apple TV+

Ted Lasso | Comedy | IMDb 8.8 | 3 Seasons | English 

An American football coach takes over a struggling English football club. The show’s warmth and decency made it a cultural touchstone. All three seasons are complete.

The Morning Show | Drama | IMDb 8.2 | 3 Seasons | English 

Jennifer Aniston and Reese Witherspoon navigate power, ambition, and accountability in the high-pressure world of broadcast journalism.

Shrinking | Comedy | IMDb 8.0 | 2 Seasons | English 

Jason Segel plays a therapist who starts telling his patients exactly what he thinks. Harrison Ford is a scene-stealer as his gruff colleague.

Pachinko | Historical Drama | IMDb 8.4 | 2 Seasons | Korean, Japanese, English 

A multigenerational saga based on Min Jin Lee’s bestselling novel, spanning Korea and Japan across the 20th century. Visually stunning and emotionally devastating.

Tehran | Spy Thriller | IMDb 7.6 | 2 Seasons | Hebrew, Farsi

A Mossad agent goes undercover in Tehran. Tense, well-crafted, and a strong companion to Slow Horses.

Smoke | Thriller | IMDb 7.8 | 1 Season | English 

A 2026 release starring Taron Egerton as an arson investigator in a slow-burn thriller created by Dennis Lehane (Shutter Island, Mystic River).

Presumed Innocent | Legal Thriller | IMDb 7.3 | 1 Season | English 

Jake Gyllenhaal as a prosecutor accused of murder. Based on the Scott Turow novel.

Best Web Series on Amazon MX Player

Amazon MX Player (formerly MX Player) is Amazon’s free, ad-supported streaming platform in India, sitting alongside Prime Video. It has invested in original content across Hindi and regional languages, and its 2026 slate includes over 150 titles.

Made in India: A Titan Story

Genre: Biographical Drama | IMDb: 8.0 | Seasons: 1 | Episodes: 6 | Language: Hindi, Tamil, Telugu | Runtime: 40-50 min per episode

Based on the book Titan: Inside India’s Most Successful Consumer Brand by Vinay Kamath, this series chronicles how Xerxes Desai built Titan watches into a world-class Indian brand during the pre-liberalization era, under the mentorship of JRD Tata. Jim Sarbh as Xerxes Desai and Naseeruddin Shah as JRD Tata deliver measured, thoughtful performances.

Why watch: The show captures a period of Indian business history that is rarely dramatized. Released in June 2026, it became one of the year’s most talked-about Indian originals and is streaming entirely free with ads. The six-episode format keeps it tight and focused.

Best for: Entrepreneurs, business enthusiasts, and anyone interested in Indian industrial history.

Similar series: Scam 1992, Rocket Boys, The Big Bull (film).

Best Web Series on Lionsgate Play

Lionsgate Play operates primarily as a Hollywood-focused platform in India, with a growing slate of Indian originals and a library of acclaimed international series. It is available through direct subscription and is bundled into JioHotstar, Airtel Xstream, and Amazon Prime Video Channels.

Recommended on Lionsgate Play

Paris Has Fallen | Action Thriller | IMDb 6.8 | 1 Season | English 

An action thriller set in the French capital, part of the Fallen franchise. Solid popcorn entertainment.

Minx | Comedy Drama | IMDb 7.6 | 2 Seasons | English 

Set in 1970s Los Angeles, a feminist magazine editor teams up with a low-rent publisher to launch the first women’s erotic magazine. Sharp writing and strong performances from Ophelia Lovibond and Jake Johnson.

Jugaadistan | Comedy Drama | IMDb 6.5 | 1 Season | Hindi 

Sumeet Vyas and Arjun Mathur star in a Lionsgate India original about college campus politics and relationships. Entertaining if uneven.

Feels Like Home | Comedy | IMDb 7.0 | 2 Seasons | Hindi

A coming-of-age story about four young men sharing a flat. Light, fun, and relatable for younger audiences.

Hidden Gems You Probably Missed

These are the series that rarely appear on mainstream listicles but have earned devoted followings and high ratings from those who found them.

Laakhon Mein Ek | Drama | Prime Video | IMDb 8.6 | 2 Seasons | Hindi 

Season 1 follows an IIT aspirant sent to Kota; Season 2 shifts to a public health worker in rural Madhya Pradesh. Both are raw, unsentimental, and deeply affecting.

Yeh Meri Family | Comedy Drama | Prime Video (moved to Netflix) | IMDb 9.0 | 2 Seasons | Hindi 

Set in the 1990s, this series captures the nostalgia of a middle-class Indian childhood with such precision that it regularly reduces grown adults to tears. The cassette players, Doordarshan, and family dynamics are all pitch-perfect.

Maamla Legal Hai | Legal Comedy | Netflix | IMDb 7.5 | 1 Season | Hindi 

A courtroom comedy that won the Filmfare OTT Award for Best Comedy Series. Light, witty, and a refreshing break from the thriller-heavy Indian OTT diet.

The Jengaburu Curse | Eco-Thriller | Sony LIV | IMDb 7.2 | 1 Season | Hindi 

A rare Indian take on the environmental thriller, set in the mining regions of Odisha. Slow in places but rewarding for patient viewers.

The Railway Men | Historical Drama | Netflix | IMDb 8.3 | 1 Season | Hindi 

Based on the Bhopal gas tragedy of 1984, following ordinary railway workers who became first responders. Won the Filmfare OTT Award for Best Drama Series.

Bandish Bandits | Music Drama | Prime Video | IMDb 8.4 | 2 Seasons | Hindi 

A classical musician and a pop star collaborate and clash. Season 2 won the IFFI Silver Peacock for Best Web Series. The music is outstanding.

Best Indian Web Series of All Time

These are the series that defined Indian OTT and remain essential viewing regardless of when they were released.

1. Scam 1992: The Harshad Mehta Story (Sony LIV) | IMDb 9.3
2. Aspirants (Prime Video) | IMDb 9.2
3. Gullak (Sony LIV) | IMDb 9.1
4. Kota Factory (Netflix) | IMDb 9.0
5. Yeh Meri Family (Netflix) | IMDb 9.0
6. Panchayat (Prime Video) | IMDb 8.9
7. The Family Man (Prime Video) | IMDb 8.7
8. Rocket Boys (Sony LIV) | IMDb 8.7
9. Sacred Games (Netflix) | IMDb 8.5
10. Delhi Crime (Netflix) | IMDb 8.5

Best International Web Series Streaming in India

Not all the best shows on Indian OTT are Indian. Here are international series available across platforms that Indian viewers should not overlook.

Breaking Bad | Netflix | IMDb 9.5 | Crime Drama 

The transformation of Walter White from chemistry teacher to drug kingpin. Widely considered the greatest television drama ever made.

Chernobyl | JioHotstar | IMDb 9.4 | Historical Drama 

Five episodes covering the 1986 nuclear disaster and its aftermath. Terrifying, heartbreaking, and superbly acted.

Band of Brothers | JioHotstar | IMDb 9.4 | War Drama 

Ten episodes following Easy Company through World War II in Europe. Produced by Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks.

The Wire | JioHotstar | IMDb 9.3 | Crime Drama 

Five seasons examining Baltimore’s institutions, from the drug trade to the police, the schools, the docks, and the media. Many critics regard it as the greatest television series ever produced.

Better Call Saul | Netflix | IMDb 9.0 | Crime Drama 

The prequel to Breaking Bad that arguably surpasses the original in character depth. Bob Odenkirk and Rhea Seehorn deliver all-time great performances.

The Sopranos | JioHotstar | IMDb 9.2 | Crime Drama 

The series that started the golden age of television. Tony Soprano remains the most complex protagonist in TV history.

Game of Thrones | JioHotstar | IMDb 9.2 | Fantasy 

Eight seasons of political intrigue, war, and dragons. The early seasons are among the finest fantasy fiction ever adapted for screen.

The Bear | JioHotstar | IMDb 8.6 | Drama 

A fine-dining chef returns to run his family’s sandwich shop in Chicago. The intensity, performances, and food photography are extraordinary.

Best Web Series by Genre

Crime and Thriller

Sacred Games (Netflix), The Family Man (Prime Video), Paatal Lok (Prime Video), Delhi Crime (Netflix), Kohrra (Netflix), Mirzapur (Prime Video), Undekhi (Sony LIV), Breaking Bad (Netflix), Slow Horses (Apple TV+), Narcos (Netflix), Ozark (Netflix), Mindhunter (Netflix), Broadchurch (JioHotstar), The Night Manager (JioHotstar), Farzi (Prime Video), Asur (JioHotstar) 

Comedy

Panchayat (Prime Video), Gullak (Sony LIV), Pitchers (Zee5), Ted Lasso (Apple TV+), Maamla Legal Hai (Netflix), Fleabag (Prime Video), The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel (Prime Video), Shrinking (Apple TV+), Sunflower (Zee5), Widow’s Bay (Apple TV+), The Office (Netflix), Abbott Elementary (JioHotstar), Derry Girls (Netflix), Only Murders in the Building (JioHotstar), Schitt’s Creek (Netflix) 

Drama

Scam 1992 (Sony LIV), Aspirants (Prime Video), Kota Factory (Netflix), Rocket Boys (Sony LIV), Bandish Bandits (Prime Video), Made in India: A Titan Story (Amazon MX Player), Pachinko (Apple TV+), Succession (JioHotstar), The Bear (JioHotstar), Shōgun (JioHotstar), This Is Us (JioHotstar), Better Call Saul (Netflix), The Crown (Netflix) 

Sci-Fi and Fantasy

Severance (Apple TV+), Silo (Apple TV+), Dark (Netflix), Stranger Things (Netflix), Black Mirror (Netflix), Game of Thrones (JioHotstar), 3 Body Problem (Netflix), The Last of Us (JioHotstar), Foundation (Apple TV+), The Sandman (Netflix), Andor (JioHotstar), The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power (Prime Video) 

Horror

Widow’s Bay (Apple TV+), Stranger Things (Netflix), Ghoul (Netflix), The Haunting of Hill House (Netflix), It: Welcome to Derry (JioHotstar), Midnight Mass (Netflix), From (Prime Video), Marianne (Netflix), The Fall of the House of Usher (Netflix), The Walking Dead (JioHotstar) 

Romance

Mismatched (Netflix), Bandish Bandits (Prime Video), Little Things (Netflix), Fleabag (Prime Video), Normal People (JioHotstar), obody Wants This (Netflix), Bridgerton (Netflix), One Day (Netflix), Emily in Paris (Netflix), Love Life (Lionsgate Play) 

Family

Panchayat (Prime Video), Gullak (Sony LIV), Yeh Meri Family (Netflix), TVF Tripling (Zee5), Feels Like Home (Lionsgate Play), Young Sheldon (Netflix), Modern Family (JioHotstar), Anne with an E (Netflix), Atypical (Netflix), Heartstopper (Netflix) 

Documentary

The Hunt for Veerappan (Netflix), Wild Wild Punjab (Netflix), Bad Boy Billionaires (Netflix), Our Planet (Netflix), Turning Point (Netflix), Formula 1: Drive to Survive (Netflix), Beckham (Netflix), Chef’s Table (Netflix), The Social Dilemma (Netflix) 

Which OTT Platform Has the Best Library?

*Prime membership includes shopping, music, and reading benefits.

The verdict: No single platform covers everything. For most Indian households in 2026, the strongest two-platform combinations are:

• The binge-watcher: Netflix + Prime Video
• The cricket family: JioHotstar + Prime Video
• The quality seeker: Apple TV+ + Sony LIV
• The budget viewer: Zee5 (annual plan) + JioHotstar (free via Jio)

How We Chose These Recommendations

This guide was built using the following criteria:

• IMDb ratings form the baseline. Every series recommended here carries a rating of 7.0 or above, with the majority above 8.0.
• Awards and recognition include International Emmy Awards, Filmfare OTT Awards, IFFI Silver Peacock, and Primetime Emmy nominations.
• Audience reception was assessed through community discussions on Reddit (r/IndianOTT, r/bollywood), Quora, and OTT-specific forums.
• Critical reviews from publications such as Film Companion, Variety, The Hollywood Reporter India, and The Indian Express were considered.
• Rewatch value was factored in. Series that viewers return to (Panchayat, Gullak, Scam 1992) carry additional weight.
• Production quality encompasses writing, direction, performances, cinematography, and sound design.
• Cultural impact was measured by the degree to which a series entered mainstream conversation, created memorable characters, or shifted perceptions of Indian OTT.
• Current availability was verified. Every series listed here is streaming on the indicated platform as of now.

Practical Ways to Save on Your OTT Subscriptions

Subscribing to multiple OTT platforms can add up quickly. Here are the most effective ways to reduce your streaming costs:

Annual plans over monthly. Every platform offers significant discounts on annual subscriptions. Netflix’s annual plan works out cheaper per month than the monthly billing cycle, and the savings are even more pronounced on Prime Video (Rs 1,499/year vs Rs 299/month).

Telecom bundles. Jio, Airtel, and Vi prepaid and postpaid plans frequently include OTT subscriptions at no extra cost. Airtel Xstream Play Premium bundles Sony LIV, Zee5, Lionsgate Play, and more into a single subscription. Jio users get JioHotstar access included with many plans.

Credit card and bank offers. Before paying for an OTT subscription, check if your credit card includes streaming benefits. Many cards from banks like Axis, HDFC, AU, IDFC FIRST, and ICICI offer free subscriptions, cashback, or discounts on platforms such as Amazon Prime Video, Sony LIV, Zee5, and Times Prime. Just keep in mind that the offers vary by card and spending criteria. 

UPI offers. Platforms like PhonePe and Paytm occasionally run cashback offers on OTT subscription payments.

Student discounts. Some platforms offer reduced pricing for students with valid educational credentials.

GrabOn coupon pages. Before subscribing or renewing, check the relevant GrabOn page for active coupon codes and offers:

• Netflix offers
• Amazon Prime offers
• JioHotstar offers
• Sony LIV offers
• Zee5 offers

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the number one web series in India right now?

There isn’t a single official ranking, but Scam 1992: The Harshad Mehta Story continues to be widely regarded as India’s best web series, holding an IMDb rating of 9.3. Among newer releases, Made in India: A Titan Story, Pritam and Pedro, and Aspirants Season 3 have been among the most talked-about Indian OTT titles in 2026. 

Which OTT platform is best for web series in India?

The best platform depends on your preferences. Netflix offers the widest mix of Indian originals and international hits, while Prime Video excels in Hindi originals such as Panchayat, The Family Man, and Mirzapur. Apple TV+ has a smaller but exceptionally high-quality catalog, Sony LIV is known for critically acclaimed dramas like Scam 1992 and Gullak, and JioHotstar combines popular series with live sports and HBO content. 

Can I watch web series for free in India?

Yes. Amazon MX Player offers a large library of ad-supported shows without requiring a subscription. You can also watch select web series for free on YouTube, especially from creators like TVF. Some telecom plans from providers such as Jio and Airtel also bundle OTT subscriptions, giving eligible users access at no additional cost. 

What is the best Indian web series for beginners?

If you’re new to Indian web series, start with Panchayat for its warmth and relatable storytelling or Scam 1992 for a gripping real-life drama. If you enjoy thrillers, The Family Man is another excellent entry point thanks to its blend of action, humor, and emotional depth. 

Which web series has the best ending?

Among Indian series, Scam 1992 and Delhi Crime Season 1 are widely praised for delivering satisfying conclusions. Internationally, Breaking Bad, Fleabag, and Better Call Saul are frequently cited among television’s strongest finales for their emotional payoff and storytelling. 

What are the best web series to watch with family?

Panchayat, Gullak, Yeh Meri Family, and Kota Factory are excellent family-friendly choices. While these shows are suitable for most viewers, parents may still want to check age ratings, especially for younger children. 

Is Apple TV+ available in India?

Yes. Apple TV+ is available in India for ₹99 per month. New subscribers are typically eligible for a 7-day free trial, and eligible Apple device purchases may also include an extended complimentary subscription. The service works on Apple devices, smart TVs, streaming devices, gaming consoles, and major web browsers. 

What is the cheapest OTT platform in India?

Among premium streaming services, Apple TV+ (₹99/month) is one of the most affordable monthly subscriptions. ZEE5 and Sony LIV also offer competitively priced annual plans that reduce the effective monthly cost. If you’re looking to avoid subscription fees altogether, Amazon MX Player remains one of the best free, ad-supported streaming platforms in India.