India’s entertainment industry has been producing a plethora of psychological thriller web series that captivate audiences with their intricate plots and suspenseful narratives. For enthusiasts of the genre, these series offer a deep dive into the complexities of the human psyche, often intertwined with cultural nuances unique to the Indian subcontinent. Below is a curated list of must-watch psychological thriller web series from India that promise to keep you on the edge of your seat.
1. Asur: Welcome to Your Dark Side
Set against the mystical backdrop of Varanasi, Asur delves into the world of forensic science intertwined with ancient Indian mythology. The series follows forensic experts Nikhil Nair and Dhananjay Rajpoot as they hunt down a brutal serial killer who believes himself to be the reincarnation of the asura Kali. The narrative masterfully blends crime investigation with mythological elements, offering a fresh perspective on the age-old battle between good and evil. With stellar performances by Arshad Warsi and Barun Sobti, Asur is a gripping tale that challenges conventional storytelling.
Where to Watch:Â JioCinema
2. Breathe
Breathe explores the lengths to which a father would go to save his child’s life. The story centers on Danny Mascarenhas, portrayed by R. Madhavan, whose son is in dire need of a lung transplant. Facing insurmountable odds, Danny embarks on a morally ambiguous path, leading to a cat-and-mouse game with determined cop Kabir Sawant, played by Amit Sadh. The series delves deep into themes of morality, desperation, and the human will to survive, making viewers question the thin line between right and wrong.
Where to Watch:Â Amazon Prime Video
3. Sacred Games
Based on Vikram Chandra’s novel, Sacred Games is a complex narrative that intertwines the lives of a jaded Mumbai police officer, Sartaj Singh, and a notorious crime lord, Ganesh Gaitonde. The series delves into Mumbai’s underbelly, exploring themes of corruption, crime, and the existential quests of its characters. With its intricate plot and profound character studies, Sacred Games has set a benchmark for Indian web series on the global stage.
Where to Watch:Â Netflix
4. Delhi Crime
Delhi Crime is a hard-hitting series that dramatizes the investigation following the horrific 2012 Delhi gang-rape case. The narrative focuses on Deputy Commissioner of Police Vartika Chaturvedi, portrayed by Shefali Shah, as she leads the search for the culprits. The series offers a raw and unfiltered look into the challenges faced by law enforcement in India, highlighting systemic issues while paying tribute to the relentless spirit of the police force.
Where to Watch:Â Netflix
5. Paatal Lok
Produced by Anushka Sharma, Paatal Lok is a gritty crime thriller that delves into the darker aspects of society. The story follows a disillusioned cop, Hathiram Chaudhary, who is assigned to investigate a high-profile case that leads him into the depths of the criminal underworld. The series is lauded for its realistic portrayal of societal issues, complex characters, and a narrative that keeps viewers hooked till the end.
Where to Watch:Â Amazon Prime Video
6. Mirzapur
Set in the lawless town of Mirzapur, this series chronicles the rise of two brothers who get entangled in the world of drugs, guns, and lawlessness. The series is known for its intense action sequences, complex character arcs, and a storyline filled with twists and turns. With standout performances by Pankaj Tripathi, Ali Fazal, and Divyendu Sharma, Mirzapur has garnered a massive fan following.
Where to Watch:Â Amazon Prime Video
7. Black Warrant
Black Warrant is a gripping crime drama set within the confines of Tihar Jail, one of India’s most notorious prisons. The series follows rookie officer Sunil Kumar Gupta, portrayed by Zahan Kapoor, as he navigates the complex web of corruption, inmate politics, and moral dilemmas. Based on real-life experiences, the narrative offers an unfiltered look into the challenges of prison administration and the thin line between right and wrong. The series has been praised for its authentic portrayal and compelling performances.
Where to Watch:Â Netflix
8. Mithya
Mithya is a psychological thriller that explores the tumultuous relationship between a Hindi literature professor, Juhi Adhikari, and her student, Rhea Rajguru. Accusations of plagiarism escalate into a series of events that blur the lines between reality and illusion. Starring Huma Qureshi and Avantika Dassani, the series delves into themes of obsession, deceit, and the subjective nature of truth.
Where to Watch:Â ZEE5
9. Damaged
Damaged stands out as one of India’s first web series centered around a female serial killer. The story revolves around Lovina Berdie, portrayed by Amruta Khanvilkar, whose charm and allure mask her sinister motives. As the police close in, the series delves into her psyche, exploring what drives someone to commit such heinous acts. The narrative is both chilling and captivating, offering a fresh perspective on crime thrillers.
Where to Watch:Â Hungama Play
10. Abhay
Abhay follows the journey of Abhay Pratap Singh, a sharp investigating officer with the mind of a criminal. Each episode presents a new case, inspired by real-life crimes, showcasing Abhay’s ability to delve into the criminal psyche. Kunal Khemu’s portrayal of the titular character brings depth to
