The Indian web series scene has exploded in recent years, offering a captivating blend of innovative storytelling and the star power of Bollywood. These web series cater to diverse tastes, from action thrillers to heartwarming comedies, all featuring some of India’s most recognizable faces. If you’re looking for a new show to devour and want to see your favorite Bollywood actors in a fresh light, look no further! Here’s our list of the Top 10 Web Series featuring Bollywood stars:
Top 10 Web Series featuring Bollywood stars
1. The Family Man (Amazon Prime Video):
This critically acclaimed series starring Manoj Bajpayee and Samantha Ruth Prabhu has become a phenomenon. It follows a seemingly ordinary man, Srikant Tiwari, juggling the pressures of a middle-class life with his high-stakes job as a National Investigation Agency (NIA) agent. The series masterfully blends action, suspense, and humor, offering a gripping exploration of family dynamics and the sacrifices made in the line of duty.
2. Sacred Games (Netflix):
This dark and gritty crime thriller, based on Vikram Chandra’s acclaimed novel, features a stellar cast including Saif Ali Khan and Nawazuddin Siddiqui. The story revolves around a troubled police officer, Sartaj Singh, who receives a cryptic message from a notorious gangster, Ganesh Gaitonde, presumed dead for years. The series delves into the underbelly of Mumbai, exploring themes of corruption, organized crime, and the complexities of human nature.
3. Mirzapur (Amazon Prime Video):
Get ready for a high-octane dose of action and drama with Mirzapur. Starring Pankaj Tripathi, Ali Fazal, and Vikrant Massey, the series is set in the lawless heartland of Uttar Pradesh, India. It follows the power struggles between rival mafia families and the ruthless pursuit of dominance. Warning: This series is not for the faint of heart, but it’s a captivating watch for those who enjoy a good gangster saga.
4. Delhi Crime (Netflix):
This gripping crime drama, based on the horrific 2012 Delhi gang rape case, is a must-watch for its sensitive portrayal of a real-life tragedy. Shefali Shah delivers a powerful performance as DCP Vartika Chaturvedi, the police officer leading the investigation. The series sheds light on the societal issues surrounding violence against women and the fight for justice.
5. Paatal Lok (Amazon Prime Video):
Jaideep Ahlawat shines as Hathiram Chaudhary, a down-on-his-luck cop, in this gritty and suspenseful crime thriller. When assigned to investigate the attempted assassination of a famous journalist, Hathiram finds himself uncovering a hidden world of crime and corruption that goes far deeper than he ever imagined. Paatal Lok is a thought-provoking series that will keep you guessing until the very end.
6. Scam 1992: The Harshad Mehta Story (SonyLIV):
This dramatization of the infamous Harshad Mehta securities scam that shook India in the early 1990s is a captivating watch. Pratik Gandhi delivers a phenomenal performance as the ambitious stockbroker who masterminded the financial fraud. The series offers a glimpse into the greed, ambition, and moral bankruptcy that fueled the scam, while also exploring the human cost of such financial crimes.
7. Aarya (Disney+ Hotstar):
Rani Mukerji steps into the world of web series with this powerful drama about a family caught in the crosshairs of the drug trade. Aarya is a fierce and protective mother forced to take charge of her family’s illegal business after a tragedy strikes. The series explores themes of loyalty, family, and the lengths people will go to protect those they love.
8. Geeli Pucchi (Netflix):
Looking for something lighter? Geeli Pucchi offers a delightful escape with its heartwarming coming-of-age story. This series chronicles the lives of four childhood friends navigating the complexities of teenage life in a small town in India. Filled with humor, nostalgia, and relatable characters, Geeli Pucchi is a perfect feel-good watch.
9. Maharani (SonyLIV):
History buffs will enjoy Maharani, a fictionalized account of the life of Rani Ahilyabai Holkar, who ruled the Maratha kingdom of Indore in the 18th century. This historical drama showcases the strength and resilience of a woman who defied societal norms and transformed her kingdom into a prosperous and just state. Humal Sood delivers a captivating performance as the titular queen.
10. Selection Day (Netflix):
Cricket is a national obsession in India, and Selection Day captures the passion and pressure surrounding the sport beautifully. Starring Mohammad Samad and Yash Dasgupta, the series follows two brothers from a small town who dream of playing cricket for India. Selection Day explores the sacrifices families make to support their children’s dreams, the intense pressure of competitive sports, and the complexities of sibling rivalry.
Beyond the Binge: Supporting Sustainable Practices
While we’ve been enjoying these captivating web series, it’s important to consider the environmental impact of our viewing habits. Streaming services consume a significant amount of energy. Here are a few ways you can make your binge-watching more sustainable:
- Influencers Promoting Sustainability: Actresses like Dia Mirza and Bhumi Pednekar are vocal advocates for environmental causes. Consider following them on social media for tips on reducing your digital footprint.
- Choose Eco-conscious Streaming Services: Some streaming services are taking steps to reduce their environmental impact. Look for platforms that invest in renewable energy sources or offer features like auto-shutoff to minimize energy consumption.
- Stream Responsibly: Avoid binge-watching at the highest resolution settings unless absolutely necessary. Lowering the resolution can significantly reduce energy consumption.
By making small changes, we can all do our part to ensure our entertainment choices don’t come at the expense of the environment.
So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and get ready to explore the captivating world of Indian web series featuring your favorite Bollywood stars! Remember, with a little effort, you can enjoy these shows while also supporting sustainable practices.