Big Indian Web Series

What's the Big Indian Web Series?

In the last decade, India has witnessed a digital revolution in entertainment. With the advent of streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+ Hotstar, SonyLIV, and others, Indian web series have exploded in popularity. These platforms have given creators the freedom to explore bold themes, diverse narratives, and complex characters—something that mainstream Indian television often failed to do. Among these, a few web series have emerged as cultural phenomena, reshaping the country's content landscape.

While many shows have found success, a few stand out due to their impact, popularity, critical acclaim, and fan following.

1. Sacred Games (Netflix)

When *Sacred Games* premiered in 2018, it changed the Indian web series game forever. Directed by Anurag Kashyap and Vikramaditya Motwane, and starring Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Saif Ali Khan, the show was India’s first Netflix original and instantly made waves globally. the series fused crime, politics, mythology, and thriller elements into an engrossing narrative that spanned decades.

*Sacred Games* received critical acclaim for its gritty storytelling, strong performances, and cinematic production value. It wasn’t just another crime drama—it was a socio-political commentary on India itself. Its success put Indian content on the global OTT map, making it arguably the first “big” Indian web series.

2. Mirzapur (Amazon Prime Video)

If there’s one show that rivals *Sacred Games* in popularity and cultural impact, it’s *Mirzapur*. This action-packed series, set in the lawless heartland of Uttar Pradesh, became a phenomenon when it launched in 2018. With its raw language, brutal violence, and intense performances (especially by Pankaj Tripathi as Kaleen Bhaiya), *Mirzapur* developed a cult following.

Its mix of family drama, revenge plots, and political power play made it addictive for a wide audience. The show’s dialogues became memes, characters became legends, and its gritty portrayal of hinterland politics gave it an edge that resonated with Indian youth.

3. The Family Man (Amazon Prime Video)

Created by Raj & DK and starring Manoj Bajpayee, *The Family Man* took a different route. It blended action, espionage, and family drama into one compelling package. Bajpayee plays Srikant Tiwari, a middle-class man trying to balance his job as an undercover intelligence officer with his duties as a father and husband.

What made *The Family Man* special was its realism, wit, and emotion. It tackled serious issues like terrorism, national security, and moral ambiguity while keeping the tone accessible. Season 2 introduced the powerful character Raji (played by Samantha Ruth Prabhu), further boosting the show’s popularity. With international-quality storytelling and a distinctly Indian flavor, *The Family Man* cemented its place among the top Indian web series.

4. Scam 1992: The Harshad Mehta Story (SonyLIV)

Arguably the most critically acclaimed Indian web series, *Scam 1992* was a breakout success in 2020. Directed by Hansal Mehta and starring Pratik Gandhi, the series chronicled the rise and fall of stockbroker Harshad Mehta, who was involved in one of India’s biggest financial scams in the 1990s.

What made *Scam 1992* stand out was its writing, direction, and performances. The show didn’t rely on gimmicks or sensationalism—it used sharp storytelling and a gripping narrative to keep viewers hooked. The background score and cinematography added to the period authenticity. It not only brought a forgotten scandal back into public consciousness but also elevated SonyLIV as a major player in the streaming world.

5. Aspirants (TVF on YouTube and Amazon Prime Video)

In contrast to crime dramas and thrillers, *Aspirants* by TVF (The Viral Fever) became a massive hit for its heartwarming and realistic portrayal of UPSC aspirants in Delhi’s Old Rajinder Nagar. Released in 2021, the show focused on friendship, dreams, and the struggles of young Indians preparing for one of the toughest exams in the country.

The show was praised for its simplicity, emotional depth, and relatability. It struck a chord with students, parents, and anyone who’s chased a dream in India’s competitive environment. *Aspirants* proved that a big Indian web series doesn’t always need high stakes—it just needs a big heart.

What Makes a Web Series “Big” in India?

A web series becomes “big” when it checks a few key boxes:

Mass appeal: It resonates with a broad audience across geographies and age groups.

Cultural relevance: It sparks conversations, memes, and even political discourse.

Critical acclaim: It wins praise from critics and often garners awards.

Repeat value: Fans binge it, rewatch it, and eagerly await the next season.

Conclusion

So, what’s the big Indian web series? The answer isn’t singular. *Sacred Games* laid the foundation. *Mirzapur* became the rage. *The Family Man* offered balance. *Scam 1992* raised the bar. *Aspirants* touched hearts.

Each of these web series represents a different aspect of India's evolving digital storytelling. Together, they’ve redefined what Indian audiences expect from entertainment and shown the world that Indian content is ready to compete on a global scale.