Best Hindi Web Series Based On Novels

With the surge of web series in recent times, it’s no surprise that more and more novels are being adapted into web series and movies. This was quite common in Hollywood since a while, but it’s only recently that Hindi shows are also following the lead. Novels provide ready-made foundations for actors and directors to elevate to the next level with their craft. And, the message of the book reaches a wider audience through different forms of media. Today, we’ve compiled a list of the best Hindi web series based on novels.

Sacred Games (Netflix)

Sacred Games is perhaps one of the most watched Indian web series. It has its roots in Vikram Chanra’s novel of the same name. The series is directed with flair by none other than Anurag Kashyap. It is the story of a crime lord and his interactions with the inspector. Well received by critics and audiences alike, this series stars Nawazuddin Siddique, Radhika Apte, Saif Ali Khan, Kalki Koechlin and other prominent names in the industry.

State of Siege (Zee5)

State of Siege, based on the book ‘Black Tornado’ by Sandeep Unnithan is based on the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks. The series brings to the fore the untold stories of security guards and the like, demonstrating small acts of heroism that escape unnoticed. Full of politics, propaganda and violence are acts of humanity and kindness. The show delves into the intricacies of the horrific attempt and keeps you glued to your seats. The book, however, is also a must read!

Leila (Netflix)

The dystopian series Leila, based on the book Leila by Prayaag Akhtar, generated a lot of buzz when it released. Set in the near future taken over by a totalitarian regime, this novel follows Shalini who searches for her missing daughter, Leila. With Huma Qureshi essaying the lead role, our expectations from this series were high. And it did not let us down.

Samantar (Mxplayer)

Samantar is the unique story of Kumar Mahajan, originally penned down by Suhas Shirwalkar in his novel of the same name. In this, Kumar, frustrated with his wife, discovers an astrologer who says that he has read a similar palm a few years ago. As Kumar sets out to find his palm-twin, he discovers Sudarshan Chakrapani, whose life has mirrored his since the beginning. Sudarshan gives him a diary, on the condition that he will read just one page everyday to know his future. Elated, Kumar takes the diary. However, he is astounded to find that soon, another woman is about to enter his life. This gri[[ing, one-of-a-kind series is a super interesting watch.

A Suitable Boy (Netflix)

Originally released by BBC in English, the Hindi version of this wonderful series is also popular. Based on Vikram Seth’s celebrated novel of the same name, this series is about Lata and her life as she chooses her life partner from among three suitors. Set in postcolonial India of the 1950s, this story recreates a distinct social and cultural panorama for our generation. Fine actors like Tabu, Ishaan Khatter and Ram Kapoor are a part of the cast and have shone as usual, but the debutantes like Tanya Maniktala and Namit Das have worked wonders as well.

Stories by Rabindranath Tagore (Epic Channel)

Stories by Rabindranath Tagore is a series of adaptations of the Nobel laureate’s work onto the small screen. The first story, comprising the first three episodes of the series is Chokher Bali, the famous novel of the same name. Subsequent episodes entail Tagore’s other short stories and his novel, “The Broken Nest” as well. Directed by Anurag Basu with finesse and delicacy, the series brings to life the serene landscape of the 1900s Bengal. The series has been crafted with exquisite aesthetic delight. Plus, the characters and stories of Tagore lend their emotional appeal to it as well.

A Married Woman (Alt-Balaji)

This series, like its corresponding novel ‘A Married Woman’ by Manju Kapur, explores the theme of love beyond genders. Astha has been an ideal woman all her life, but she’s never been true to herself. When the artistic Peeplika enters her life, however, things take a turn. Set in the turbulent period of 1992 amidst the Babri Masjid demolition saga, this story explores the nuances of human relationships. This Ridhi Dogra starrer is as as much a meditation on sexuality as it is a story of self-discovery and self-acceptance.

Selection Day (Netflix)

Arvind Adiga’s novel is one of the best translations of wordsin books into scenes in a web series. Starring Nawazuddin Siddiqui in the lead role, this is the story of the Kumar family, living in poverty after moving to Mumbai from their village. The mother has forsaken the family and the father has focused his energies into training his two kids to become world famous cricket players. All efforts are concentrated to succeed on the “selection day,” where the kids will be chosen to play for the Indian Cricket Team.

Also Read: WHY READING IS AS IMPORTANT AS WRITING FOR AUTHORS?