By Rhea Sabherwal
The digital revolution has led to a lot of modifications in many industries – the entertainment industry being one of them. The introduction of OTT platforms (over-the-top media service which is offered directly to viewers to stream via the Internet), has led to an influx of new and engaging content. As one can imagine the consumption of these platforms has only been increasing since we all have been forced to become homebodies due to COVID-19. In this current scenario, even movies that were originally preparing for a theatrical release are being ‘premiered’ on OTT platforms. Keeping aside the movies, another reason why OTT platforms have grabbed so many eyeballs is because of the noteworthy original series that are being consistently released on such platforms. After asking over 100 people (across ages) about their preferences, taking into account critic reviews and keeping in mind personal inclinations – here’s a list of 13 Hindi OTT shows I’ve come up with which I would label as ‘must watch’.
1. Made in Heaven (56 votes)
Zoya Akhtar and Reema Kagti’s web series deals with all those issues that we witness in our society towards which, more often than not, we choose to turn a blind eye to. With the right amount of drama to hook you without it turning overly dramatized, Made in Heaven has been touted as of the finest Hindi originals and if you see it, you’ll know why.
Watch the trailer here.
Watch it on: Amazon Prime Video
2. The Family Man (50 votes)
Starring Manoj Bajpayee, as a man who is caught between a normal family life and the secret life of a spy is amazing (when is he not?). One of the very few series that manages to be light-hearted while being a thriller, The Family Man is a must watch because of the amazing acting performances and the compelling storytelling.
Watch the trailer here.
Watch it on: Amazon Prime Video
3. Sacred Games (46 votes)
This is India’s first Netflix Original series and is based on Vikram Chandra’s 2006 novel of the same name. With a stellar star cast, well-written script, and a fabulous screenplay – this show seemed like a winner ever since it was announced. The second season was said to drop the ball a little after an amazing first season – but it nonetheless remains one of the most popular Hindi series on OTT platforms.
Watch the trailer here.
Watch it on: Netflix
4. Mirzapur (46 votes)
This is a gangster drama which you will definitely love if you enjoy gripping, political series. The quirky characters and sheer grittiness of it keeps you hooked. While I’m a diehard Pankaj Tripathi fan, there are noteworthy performances by all the lead actors.
Watch the trailer here.
Watch it on: Amazon Prime Video
5. Four More Shots Please! (43 votes)
Following a similar premise to “Sex and the City,” this story is about four friends and their take on life. I think what works for this series is its refreshing take on challenges that possibly most girls face in this day and age.
Watch the trailer here.
Watch it on: Amazon Prime Video
6. Special OPS (36 votes)
Neeraj Pandey’s directorial debut got mixed reviews but still remains one of the extremely popular Hindi OTT series. This could be due to Kay Kay Menon’s phenomenal portrayal of Himmat Singh which keeps one engrossed even in parts which tend to seem a little loosely written.
Watch the trailer here.
Watch it on: Hotstar
7. Paatal Lok (35 votes)
If you’re a fan of crime thrillers, this is one show you can’t miss! It has a great storyline backed by some intelligent writing and memorable performances.
Watch the trailer here.
Watch it on: Amazon Prime Video
8. Breathe (33 votes)
While both the seasons of this series have received mixed reviews, I find it to be actually well made. Both the seasons follow the basic premise of looking at how far a parent will go for their child. The jury is still out on this one, so watch and decide for yourself whether it’s your cup of tea or not!
Watch the trailer here.
Watch it on: Amazon Prime Video
9. Little Things (32 votes)
This very genuine rom-com follows the life of a live-in couple. The ‘realness’ of the depiction of romance in today’s world is probably its biggest USP.
Watch the trailer here.
Watch it on: Netflix
10. Inside Edge (30 votes)
One of the very few compelling sport dramas, Inside Edge is an undeniably amazing show with the script as the clear king. It has no loose ends and the characters, all of which have multiple layers, have been very well portrayed by a great cast.
Watch the trailer here.
Watch it on: Amazon Prime Video
11. Panchayat (29 votes)
This slice of life show doesn’t have any overly dramatic moments but it still keeps you engaged due to its amazing dialogues, great writing and fantastic performances. It captures rural life for what it truly is, and that is its USP.
Watch the trailer here.
Watch it on: Amazon Prime Video
12. Asur (28 votes)
Asur makes for a captivating series spearheaded by great acting by the two main lead actors. The show creates this combination of spirituality and violence which leaves a lingering impact on your mind.
Watch the trailer here.
Watch it on: Voot
13. Criminal Justice (27 votes)
Criminal Justice starts off really slow but picks up the pace after couple of episodes and makes sure it’s good enough to justify the wait in the start. To me criminal justice is just another series where Pankaj Tripathi steals the show (and I don’t think its my bias speaking here).
Watch the trailer here.
Watch it on: Hotstar
While this is just a quick round up of some of my favourites there many more amazing shows that OTT platforms have to offer. Special mention to – Aarya, Hostages, Kota Factory and Delhi Crime– all of which have fared really well. So now that you have a list ready, stop reading and start watching!
To read the last piece by our favourite Bollywood addict, click here