The Top 10 Most Popular Indian Web Series of All Time as per IMDb (August 7)

Top 10 Most Popular Indian web series of All Time 

Indian web series has gained immense popularity in recent years, captivating audiences with their diverse themes, compelling narratives, and high production values. These series have successfully carved a niche for themselves in the digital entertainment landscape, attracting viewers from all walks of life. 

One such notable Indian web series is “Sacred Games.” Set in the sprawling city of Mumbai, the series weaves together a gripping tale of crime, politics, and religion. It follows the intertwined lives of a jaded police officer, Sartaj Singh, and a ruthless gangster, Ganesh Gaitonde, whose paths cross when the latter contacts Sartaj with a cryptic warning. 

The TV show garnered widespread acclaim for its complex storyline, outstanding performances, and authentic portrayal of the grittier aspects of Mumbai. By skillfully blending elements of suspense, social commentary, and intense drama, “Sacred Games” captivated an international audience.

The success of “Sacred Games” paved the way for other popular Indian web series like “Mirzapur,” “The Family Man,” and “Paatal Lok,” each with its own unique flavor and dedicated fanbase. 

Here is the list of the Top 10 Most Popular Indian web Series of All Time: 

10. Paata Lok (2020) 

“Paatal Lok” is an intense Indian crime thriller web series that delves into the dark underbelly of society. The story revolves around Hathiram Chaudhary, a disillusioned police officer assigned to investigate a high-profile case. Set in the city of Delhi, the plot explores the stark contrast between the three worlds: Swarg Lok (heaven), Dharti Lok (earth), and Paatal Lok (hell). 

As Hathiram delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a complex web of corruption, political manipulation, and social hierarchies. The narrative exposes the rotting foundations of power, where influential figures exploit the marginalized and downtrodden. 

The series confronts pressing issues such as casteism, sexism, and religious tensions, highlighting the stark disparities that exist in society. Through its gritty storytelling and compelling character arcs, “Paatal Lok” exposes the harsh realities of crime, power dynamics, and the blurred lines between good and evil. 

9. Panchayat (2020) 

“Panchayat” is an Indian web television series released in 2020. The plot revolves around the life of Abhishek Tripathi (played by Jitendra Kumar), a young engineering graduate who reluctantly takes up a job as a secretary in the Panchayat (village council) of a rural village called Phulera in Uttar Pradesh. 

As Abhishek starts his new role, he faces various challenges and encounters the quirks and idiosyncrasies of rural life. The series humorously depicts the bureaucratic inefficiencies, unconventional problem-solving methods, and daily struggles of the village community. Abhishek’s interactions with the villagers, including the Pradhan (village head), Brij Bhushan Dubey (played by Raghuvir Yadav), and his eccentric assistant Vikas (played by Chandan Roy), result in amusing situations and instructive life lessons.

Through its lighthearted storytelling, “Panchayat” explores themes of rural development, the urban-rural divide, and the importance of community. The series showcases the transformation of Abhishek as he learns to navigate the challenges of village life and discovers the beauty and simplicity hidden within it. 

8. Kota Factory (2019) 

“Kota Factory” is a popular Indian web series released in 2019. The show revolves around the life of a young student named Vaibhav, who moves to Kota, a renowned city in India known for its competitive coaching industry. Vaibhav aspires to crack the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) entrance exam. 

The plot follows Vaibhav’s struggles as he navigates through rigorous coaching classes, cutthroat competition, and immense academic pressure. He joins Prodigy, a coaching institute, and forms a bond with his roommates Meena, Uday, and Shivangi. Together, they support each other through the challenges of the education system. 

Throughout the series, Vaibhav faces several obstacles, including self-doubt and the constant fear of failure. He seeks guidance from his mentor, Jeetu Bhaiya, who imparts wisdom beyond academics. 

“Kota Factory” explores themes of friendship, determination, and the toll of the education system on students. It portrays the harsh realities of the competitive coaching culture and offers a glimpse into the lives of these young aspirants as they strive to achieve their dreams in the high-pressure environment of Kota. 

7. Aspirants 

“Aspirants” is a web series that follows the lives of three friends, Abhilash, Guri, and SK, who are preparing for the highly competitive Civil Services Examination in India. Set against the backdrop of the small town of Old Rajinder Nagar in Delhi, the plot delves into the challenges and aspirations of these young individuals. 

The goal of becoming an IAS officer drives Abhilash, who is determined and focused. Guri, the witty and carefree friend, adds a touch of humor to their otherwise intense preparation journey. SK, the practical and resourceful member of the group, balances the trio with his pragmatic approach.

The story unfolds through its ups and downs, capturing the emotional rollercoaster of the exam preparation process. It explores the pressure, sacrifices, and self-discovery each character undergoes while chasing their dreams. Along the way, they encounter various hurdles, including financial constraints, personal setbacks, and the constant battle with self-doubt. 

6. Criminal Justice 

“Criminal Justice” is a gripping crime drama that takes viewers on a thrilling journey through the complex world of the criminal justice system. The story follows Aditya, a young college student who finds himself accused of a heinous crime after a night of partying with a mysterious woman, Sanaya. The plot unravels as Aditya wakes up to find Sanaya brutally murdered and himself covered in blood, with no memory of the events that transpired. 

As Aditya becomes the prime suspect, the narrative delves into the intricacies of the Indian legal system, highlighting its flaws, corruption, and the struggles faced by those ensnared within its clutches. The series explores Aditya’s desperate attempts to prove his innocence, as he faces a web of evidence and encounters a range of complex characters, including his lawyer, Madhav, who becomes his only hope in navigating the murky waters of the judicial system. 

This gritty and suspenseful tale not only challenges the notion of justice but also explores themes of identity, morality, and the human capacity for both good and evil. “Criminal Justice” keeps audiences on the edge of their seats as they witness the unfolding drama and contemplate the question: What happens when the law fails to serve justice? 

5. Breathe (2018) 

Robin Cavendish, a young and adventurous Englishman, and his wife Diana. In the 1950s, Robin is struck with polio, leaving him paralyzed from the neck down and dependent on a respirator to breathe. Determined to live a fulfilling life, Robin and Diana refuse to accept the limitations imposed by his condition. 

With the support of friends and family, they pioneer new medical technologies and advocate for better treatment for disabled individuals. They challenge societal norms and create a more inclusive world for people with disabilities. Their unwavering spirit and love for each other inspire those around them and prove that life is worth living, even in the face of extreme adversity. 

“Breathe” is a heartwarming story of love, resilience, and the power of the human spirit to overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges. 

4. The Family Man (2019) 

“The Family Man” is a thrilling Indian web series that revolves around Srikant Tiwari, a middle-class man leading a dual life as a National Investigation Agency (NIA) officer and a loving family man. The plot follows Srikant as he balances his dangerous and high-stakes job while dealing with the challenges of family life. 

Srikant’s life takes an unexpected turn when he is tasked with preventing a terrorist attack that could potentially endanger millions of lives. As he delves deeper into his mission, he encounters various complex characters, including terrorists, government officials, and fellow agents, all of whom test his resilience and principles. 

3. Scam 1992: The Harshad Mehta Story (2020) 

“Scam 1992: The Harshad Mehta Story” is an Indian web series released in 2020, based on the real-life events surrounding the infamous stock market scam that took place in India during the 1990s. The series follows the rise and fall of Harshad Mehta, a stockbroker who manipulated the Indian stock market and became one of the most prominent figures in the financial world. 

The plot revolves around Harshad Mehta’s journey from a small-time broker to a powerful player in the stock market. It explores his innovative techniques, such as the “Pump and Dump” scheme, and his ability to manipulate stock prices. Officer Sucheta Dalal, in charge of the authorities, begins looking into Mehta’s activities as he amasses a great deal of wealth and fame.

The series delves into the intricacies of the financial world, the dynamics of power, and the cat-and-mouse game between Mehta and the law enforcement agencies. It portrays the impact of Mehta’s actions on the economy and the lives of those involved. Through its gripping storytelling and authentic portrayal of events, “Scam 1992” provides a detailed account of the scandal and its far-reaching consequences, capturing the essence of the era and the financial upheaval that ensued. 

2. Mirzapur (2018) 

“Mirzapur” is one of the highly anticipated web series in India. The story sets in the fictional town of Mirzapur in Uttar Pradesh. The series revolves around the power struggles, crime, and violence that unfold among the mafia families vying for control over the illegal drug trade. 

The plot primarily focuses on two central characters, Guddu Pandit (played by Ali Fazal) and Bablu Pandit (played by Vikrant Massey), who get drawn into the world of crime after an incident. They find themselves caught between the warring factions led by Akhandanand Tripathi, also known as Kaleen Bhaiya (played by Pankaj Tripathi), and his rival, Rati Shankar Shukla (played by Shubrajyoti Bharat). The brothers must navigate the dangerous and treacherous landscape of Mirzapur, facing betrayal, violence, and power dynamics that threaten their lives and the lives of their loved ones.

As the series progresses, the plot explores themes of loyalty, family, and the thirst for power. It showcases the dark and gritty side of the town, highlighting the nexus between politics, crime, and law enforcement. With its intense storytelling, strong performances, and a mix of action, drama, and suspense, “Mirzapur” captivated audiences and garnered a dedicated fanbase. 

1. Sacred Games (2018) 

“Sacred Games” is a popular Indian web television series released in 2018, based on the critically acclaimed novel of the same name by Vikram Chandra. The series, set in Mumbai, weaves together the stories of two main characters: Sartaj Singh, a troubled police officer, and Ganesh Gaitonde, a notorious gangster. 

The plot follows Sartaj Singh, who receives an anonymous tip that leads him to Ganesh Gaitonde, a wanted criminal. Gaitonde, sensing his own impending death, reveals a larger conspiracy to Sartaj involving the imminent destruction of Mumbai within 25 days. As Sartaj races against time to uncover the truth, the series takes the audience on a thrilling and suspenseful journey through Mumbai’s underworld, politics, and corruption. 

The narrative delves into the complex layers of power dynamics, religion, and personal struggles as Sartaj becomes entangled in a dangerous game that could have far-reaching consequences. 

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