Suspense lovers, you’re in for a treat. Whether you’re a fan of psychological thrillers, crime investigations, or espionage dramas, Indian OTT platforms like JioCinema and JioHotstar offer a growing list of nail-biting web series that will keep you hooked from start to finish.
From intense crime stories to high-stakes international missions, here’s a detailed guide to the best suspense web series available right now—perfect for your next binge-watch weekend.
Best Suspense Web Series on JioCinema
JioCinema has been stepping up its content game, and when it comes to thrillers, the platform doesn’t disappoint. Here’s a look at the top suspense shows available exclusively on JioCinema.
1. Asur (Season 1 & 2)
Genre: Psychological Thriller, Mythological Crime
Starring: Arshad Warsi, Barun Sobti
Where to Watch: JioCinema
Plot:
Set in the holy city of Varanasi, Asur is a spine-chilling thriller where mythology meets modern forensic science. A former CBI officer returns to help solve a case involving a serial killer who believes he’s the next Kalki—the destroyer of evil.
Why Watch It?
- Mixes Indian mythology with crime
- Smart dialogues and deep philosophical questions
- Brilliant acting by Arshad Warsi
- Gripping and layered storytelling
✅ If you’re new to Indian thrillers, start with Asur. It’s one of the most binge-worthy shows in recent years.
2. The Night Manager (Part 1 & 2)
Genre: Spy Thriller, Drama
Starring: Anil Kapoor, Aditya Roy Kapur, Sobhita Dhulipala
Where to Watch: Disney+ Hotstar
Plot:
Based on the bestselling novel by John le Carré, this Indian adaptation follows a hotel night manager who is recruited by intelligence agents to infiltrate the inner circle of a dangerous arms dealer.
Why Watch It?
- International-level production and story
- Stellar performances
- Stylish visuals and gripping plot twists
- Excellent remake of the original British series
💡 Best suited for fans of spy shows like The Family Man or Jack Ryan.
3. Rafuchakkar
Genre: Heist, Crime Comedy
Starring: Maniesh Paul
Where to Watch: JioCinema
Plot:
A high-profile con artist uses multiple identities to scam powerful people across India. But as he gets caught in a web of lies, law enforcement agencies close in—raising the stakes with each episode.
Why Watch It?
- Fun yet suspenseful
- Unique concept not commonly seen in Indian OTT
- Maniesh Paul’s surprising performance
4. Inspector Avinash
Genre: Crime, Action Drama
Starring: Randeep Hooda
Where to Watch: JioCinema
Plot:
Inspired by true events from 1997 in Uttar Pradesh, the series follows Inspector Avinash Mishra as he forms a special task force to take down the state’s most dangerous gangsters.
Why Watch It?
- Based on real-life incidents
- High-octane action
- Strong storytelling and powerful dialogues
🏆 A must-watch for fans of realistic crime dramas.
Top Suspense Web Series on JioHotstar
JioHotstar is already home to some of the most popular Indian web series. Its lineup of thrillers includes courtroom dramas, espionage sagas, and morally complex crime stories.
5. Criminal Justice (All Seasons)
Genre: Crime, Legal Drama
Starring: Pankaj Tripathi, Vikrant Massey, Kirti Kulhari
Where to Watch: JioHotstar
Plot:
Each season focuses on a different legal case. Defendants are often ordinary people caught in extraordinary situations. Lawyer Madhav Mishra, played by Pankaj Tripathi, brings a mix of wit and wisdom to each courtroom battle.
Why Watch It?
- Each season is a standalone story
- Exceptional acting by Tripathi
- Emotional depth meets intense legal drama
- Based on the British series of the same name
6. Special Ops
Genre: Spy Thriller
Starring: Kay Kay Menon
Where to Watch: JioHotstar
Plot:
RAW officer Himmat Singh uncovers a pattern in terrorist attacks over the years and connects them to a single mastermind. The show follows his team as they chase down the hidden villain.
Why Watch It?
- Globally-set thriller
- Engaging storylines
- Power-packed performances
- Stunning cinematography
💥 A solid pick for fans of intelligent, slow-burn thrillers.
7. Hostages (Season 1 & 2)
Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery
Starring: Tisca Chopra, Ronit Roy
Where to Watch: JioHotstar
Plot:
A doctor’s family is taken hostage, and she’s told to kill a VIP patient to save her loved ones. As the story unfolds, dark secrets come to light.
Why Watch It?
- Each episode ends on a cliffhanger
- Emotional and moral dilemmas
- High tension from start to finish
8. Aarya (Season 1–3)
Genre: Crime Thriller, Family Drama
Starring: Sushmita Sen
Where to Watch: JioHotstar
Plot:
A housewife is forced into the world of crime after her husband is mysteriously killed. She must protect her family while dealing with dangerous gangsters and corrupt cops.
Why Watch It?
- Powerful performance by Sushmita Sen
- Focuses on a strong female lead
- Emotion meets suspense
9. Grahan
Genre: Period Mystery Drama
Starring: Zoya Hussain, Pavan Malhotra
Where to Watch: JioHotstar
Plot:
While investigating the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, a young IPS officer finds out her father may have been involved. The story shifts between two timelines, blending history and mystery.
Why Watch It?
- Emotionally gripping and socially relevant
- Brilliant narrative structure
- Strong performances
🌟 One of the most underrated gems on Hotstar.
10. The Freelancer
Genre: Action, Spy Thriller
Starring: Mohit Raina, Anupam Kher
Where to Watch: JioHotstar
Plot:
A former military agent takes on a secret rescue mission in a war-torn region. As he digs deeper, he uncovers dangerous truths that put everyone at risk.
Why Watch It?
- Intense, action-packed storytelling
- Global-scale mission
- Mohit Raina in a serious, well-executed role
Platform Availability Summary
| Web Series | Genre | Available On |
|---|---|---|
| Asur | Mythological Crime | JioCinema |
| Rafuchakkar | Heist, Comedy-Thriller | JioCinema |
| Inspector Avinash | Crime, Action Drama | JioCinema |
| The Night Manager | Spy Thriller | Jio Hotstar |
| Criminal Justice | Legal, Crime | Jio Hotstar |
| Special Ops | Spy, Action | Jio Hotstar |
| Hostages | Crime, Drama | Jio Hotstar |
| Aarya | Crime, Family Drama | Jio Hotstar |
| Grahan | Period Drama, Mystery | Jio Hotstar |
| The Freelancer | Spy, Rescue Mission | Jio Hotstar |
Final Recommendations
Still not sure where to start? Here’s a quick guide:
- Like mythology meets mystery? → Watch Asur
- Prefer legal thrillers? → Start with Criminal Justice
- Want international espionage? → Go for The Night Manager or Special Ops
- Enjoy female-led narratives? → Binge Aarya
- Looking for something based on true events? → Watch Inspector Avinash or Grahan
