List of Indian-Based Web Series That UK People Love to Watch

Over the past few years, Indian web series have carved a significant place in the global streaming landscape, with the UK being a major part of this expanding audience. With platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+ Hotstar making Indian content readily accessible, viewers are exploring stories rich in cultural and thematic depth. According to a report by Media Insights Group, there was a 40% increase in the consumption of Indian content in the UK between 2020 and 2024. This surge reflects a growing appetite for diverse storytelling that offers both entertainment and new perspectives.

Top Indian Web Series Loved by UK Viewers

1. Sacred Games

Sacred Games set a new benchmark for Indian web series with its release in 2018. Adapted from Vikram Chandra's novel and featuring actors Saif Ali Khan and Nawazuddin Siddiqui, the series intertwines crime, politics, and existential themes. According to Global Streaming Trends 2022, the show garnered over 100 million views worldwide in its first year, with the UK making up a significant portion of this audience. The intense narrative, coupled with high production quality and intricate character arcs, makes Sacred Games comparable to popular Western thrillers.

Key Data:

• IMDb rating: 8.6/10
• Viewership: 100+ million global views (Source: Streaming Analytics Report 2022)

2. Mirzapur

With its raw portrayal of crime and power struggles in the town of Mirzapur, this series has captured audiences far beyond India. According to a 2022 survey by International Streaming Metrics, Mirzapur was one of the top three non-English language series watched by UK viewers. Starring Pankaj Tripathi, Ali Fazal, and Divyendu Sharma, the show dives deep into family feuds and political power plays, reminiscent of Peaky Blinders. This connection has piqued the interest of UK audiences who appreciate high-stakes dramas.

Key Data:

• Ranked among top three non-English series in the UK (International Streaming Metrics 2022)
• IMDb rating: 8.5/10

3. Delhi Crime

As the first Indian series to win an International Emmy Award for Best Drama Series in 2020, Delhi Crime broke new ground. This true-crime drama is based on the 2012 Delhi gang-rape case and follows DCP Vartika Chaturvedi (played by Shefali Shah) as she navigates the investigation. Following its Emmy win, viewership in the UK increased by 70%, as per Viewership Trends 2021. The series has been lauded for its empathetic storytelling and powerful performances, striking a chord with audiences who appreciate socially conscious narratives.

Key Data:

• Emmy Award Winner for Best Drama (2020)
• UK viewership spike of 70% post-Emmy (Viewership Trends 2021)
• IMDb rating: 8.5/10

4. Paatal Lok

Premiering in 2020, Paatal Lok is a gritty series that delves into societal issues, corruption, and caste dynamics through the perspective of a troubled police officer. The show, produced by Anushka Sharma, has been highly rated (8.0/10 on IMDb) and attracted a loyal following in the UK, especially among viewers interested in psychological and thematic depth. According to OTT Insights Report 2022, UK audiences who are fans of Mindhunter or True Detective found Paatal Lok equally engaging.

Key Data:

• IMDb rating: 8.0/10
• Strong following among UK viewers interested in crime dramas (OTT Insights Report 2022)

5. Made in Heaven

This 2019 series shines a spotlight on modern relationships, societal norms, and the lives of two wedding planners navigating the highs and lows of contemporary India. Made in Heaven has a 90% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and has resonated with UK viewers due to its universal themes of ambition, love, and societal expectations. The series addresses topics like LGBTQ+ rights and gender equality, which align with progressive UK audiences seeking diverse storytelling.

Key Data:

• Rotten Tomatoes rating: 90%
• IMDb rating: 8.3/10
• Recognized for addressing social issues relevant to global audiences

Why Indian Web Series Appeal to UK Audiences

Indian web series offer a unique mix of storytelling that balances local cultural nuances with universal themes, which is highly appealing to UK viewers. According to Global Viewership Insights 2023, 65% of UK audiences expressed a preference for shows that provide a glimpse into different cultures while delivering relatable narratives. High production values, talented casts, and innovative scripts further elevate these series, making them competitive on a global scale.

Key Reasons for Appeal:

• Diverse Storytelling: Indian series often integrate elements of family, tradition, and modern societal issues.
• High Production Quality: Significant investments in Indian content have led to visually compelling and well-acted shows.
• Universal Themes: Love, ambition, justice, and moral dilemmas are themes that resonate with UK audiences.

Hidden Gems to Explore

Beyond mainstream hits, hidden gems like Bazari Mafia offer UK audiences a chance to discover more niche content. This series, which highlights the impact of illegal sand mining in Rajasthan, sheds light on environmental and socio-economic issues rarely discussed in mainstream media. For viewers interested in documentaries or real-life inspired dramas, Bazari Mafia provides an eye-opening experience that goes beyond typical entertainment.

Why It’s Worth Watching:

• Provides insight into real-world issues that have global implications.
• Engages audiences with its gritty, true-to-life storytelling.

The Future of Indian Content in the UK

According to a 2024 forecast by Media Forecasts Ltd., Indian content viewership in the UK is projected to grow by 30% annually over the next five years. This growth reflects a broader trend of cultural exchange facilitated by streaming platforms. Shows that blend traditional storytelling with contemporary themes will likely continue to attract UK audiences looking for rich, multi-layered content.

Future Trends to Watch:

• More investments in Indian original series.
• Continued expansion of genres, including sci-fi and period dramas, to cater to a wider audience.

Conclusion

Indian web series offer UK viewers a rich tapestry of stories filled with cultural depth, complex characters, and universal themes. From popular series like Sacred Games and Mirzapur to impactful dramas like Delhi Crime and Made in Heaven, there’s something for every viewer. For those seeking lesser-known yet powerful content, Bazari Mafia exemplifies the unique storytelling that Indian series can offer. Exploring these shows can broaden one’s viewing horizon and offer a fresh perspective on stories beyond traditional Western entertainment.

FAQs

1. Why are Indian web series popular in the UK?
They bring unique stories with Indian culture mixed with relatable themes like love and family, which UK viewers enjoy.

2. How can UK viewers watch Indian web series?
Platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+ Hotstar make Indian web series easily available in the UK.

3. What makes Indian series different?
They offer cultural richness with universal themes and high-quality production and acting.

4. Will Indian series keep growing in the UK?
Yes, with more genres and investments, Indian series will likely keep expanding in the UK.