This one’s for the pop culture enthusiasts! There is a whole catalogue of Indian TV shows that have made it to the global stage, thanks to Netflix. What’s more, they’re not just any shows; they’re adaptations of bestselling books that have captured the hearts of readers worldwide. So, let’s grab a comfy spot on the couch, a big bowl of popcorn, and explore these fantastic shows based on books.
Book-to-screen adaptations:
Book: Sacred Games by Vikram Chandra
Genre: Crime, Thriller
Based on Vikram Chandra’s epic novel, this neo-noir crime thriller brings Mumbai’s underworld to life with all its dark secrets and complex characters.
Sartaj Singh, played by Saif Ali Khan, is a down-to-earth police officer who stumbles upon the mysterious world of crime lord Ganesh Gaitonde, portrayed by Nawazuddin Siddiqui. The show brilliantly captures the essence of the book, seamlessly blending past and present to reveal shocking secrets. With a touch of mysticism, it’s a unique and compelling story that’ll keep you hooked.
Also read Sacred Games (Part 2)
Book: Behind Bars in Byculla by Jigna Vora
Genre: True Crime, Drama
Scoop is a gripping miniseries inspired by real events and investigative journalist Jigna Vora’s book. The story follows journalist Jagruti Pathak who, while working on a lead, becomes the main accused in the murder of senior journalist Jaideb Sen. This character is based on journalist Jyotirmoy Dey, an Editor at MidDay, who was shot dead in 2011. In real life, Vora was charged for allegedly conspiring with gangster Chota Rajan for the murder but was finally acquitted in 2018.
This true adaptation brings to life the grim realities faced by inmates and the ruthless power play among prison authorities. It’s a raw and unfiltered look at the underbelly of the Indian criminal justice system.
Book: Trial by Fire by Neelam Krishnamoorthy and Shekhar Krishnamoorthy
Genre: Legal Drama, Tragedy
Trial By Fire is a harrowing tale of tragedy and the pursuit of justice, inspired by the book of the same name.
The series tracks the lives of the Uphaar Cinema fire tragedy victims and their families, and the legal battle that followed. The horrific accident, which took place on Friday, 13 June 1997, claimed the lives of 59 people.
The series brings to light the emotional turmoil of the victims’ families and their relentless fight for justice. If you’re a fan of heart-wrenching legal dramas based on real events, this one will leave you with a heavy heart and a sense of determination.
Book: Bard of Blood by Bilal Siddiqi
Genre: Legal Drama, Tragedy
This one’s for all the espionage and spy thriller lovers out there. Based on the book by Bilal Siddiqi, this show takes you on a thrilling ride through the world of secret agents, intelligence, and international espionage.
The series follows Kabir Anand, an ex-RAW agent who is called back into action to rescue his colleagues from Taliban captivity. It’s a gripping narrative that combines action, suspense, and a touch of patriotism. With edge-of-your-seat moments and a well-executed plot, this show is a rollercoaster ride from start to finish.
Book: The White Tiger by Aravind Adiga
Genre: Dark Comedy, Crime
Though not a series, this Netflix film, based on Aravind Adiga’s Man Booker Prize-winning novel of the same name, will take you on a whirlwind satirical ride. The story follows Balram Halwai, a poor Indian villager played brilliantly by Adarsh Gourav, who uses his wit and cunning to rise out of poverty.
Balram’s journey takes a dramatic turn when he is exposed to the corrupt and exploitative nature of India’s class system and the ruthless practices of the wealthy elite represented by a rich Delhi businessman and his wife, Pinky Madam, played by Rajkummar Rao and Priyanka Chopra. Fueled by his ambition and desire for a better life, Balram becomes entangled in a web of deceit, crime, and cunning as he navigates the complexities of modern India.
