Binge-worthy Bollywood: Top 5 must-watch Indian series for South African fans
"Heeramandi" is a period drama created and directed by Sanjay Leela Bhansali.
Image: Instagram.
As streaming services continue to revolutionise the way viewers consume content, Indian shows are carving out a significant niche among South African audiences.
For many viewers, these series provide a flavoursome blend of entertainment, nostalgia and familiarity.
While South African viewers also savour local productions, the allure of Indian shows lies in their capacity to offer diverse entertainment options that speak to shared cultural backgrounds.
With this trend in mind, here are five must-watch Indian series currently captivating audiences on streaming platforms:
"Heeramandi"
(Netflix)
Directed by the acclaimed Sanjay Leela Bhansali, this period drama unfolds the tales of the tawaifs (female entertainers) in Heeramandi, a historical bazaar of Lahore.
Set against the backdrop of India's struggle for independence, the series explores the intertwining lives of these performers as British colonial power begins to threaten their existence.
With rich storytelling and stunning visuals, "Heeramandi" immerses viewers into a world of art, loss and resilience.
"Killer Soup"
(Netflix)
This eccentric dark comedy introduces viewers to the character Swathi Reddy, played by Konkona Sen Sharma, a hapless chef with dreams of culinary success who finds her life spiraling into chaos after a murder.
Fusing dark humour with supernatural elements, "Killer Soup" takes audiences on a riveting rollercoaster of twists, secrets and conspiracy, leaving them chuckling and guessing in equal measure.
"Delhi Crime"
(Disney +)
Based on the harrowing true events surrounding the 2012 gang rape and murder of Jyoti Singh, this series delves into the contentious issues of gender violence, inequality and the police investigation that ensued.
Directed by Richie Mehta, "Delhi Crime" is not just a crime drama; it also serves as a reflective commentary on societal norms and systemic injustices in India, making it a poignant viewing experience.
"Maamla Legal Hai"
(Netflix)
Penned by Kunal Aneja and Saurabh Khanna, this quirky legal drama, directed by Rahul Pandey, unfolds in the fictional Patparganj District Court.
Infusing humour into absurd real-life legal cases, the series boasts an ensemble cast led by Ravi Kishan.
It navigates through comedic yet poignant legal dilemmas, showcasing the eccentricities of the legal profession in India and inviting audiences to reflect on the interplay of farce and reality in law.
"The Family Man"
(Disney +)
This gripping action-drama revolves around Srikant Tiwari, a dedicated officer in India’s National Investigation Agency.
The narrative deftly balances high-stakes investigations into potential terrorist activities with the complexities of Srikant’s family life.
With its riveting plotline and outstanding performances, "The Family Man" presents an intricate portrayal of contemporary dualities in the fast-paced world of national security and personal relationships.
"The Family Man" cast.
Image: Instagram.
As the streaming landscape continues to evolve, South African viewers can look forward to an enriching blend of content that resonates far beyond entertainment.