New Indian series blending thriller and drama, Taskaree: The Hell of Smuggling, is set to premiere on Netflix on January 14, 2026. Created by Neeraj Pandey and directed by Raghav Jairath, this original production ventures into a rarely explored realm on television: that of airport customs and international smuggling enforcement. Led by Emraan Hashmi, the series continues the trend of contemporary Indian dramas focused on institutions and national security.
The story follows Arjun Meena, a seasoned detective leading a special unit operating in the most sensitive areas of international airports. Methodical and disciplined, he embodies an authority built on anticipation and strict protocol, in a environment where one misstep can have serious repercussions. When the Indian government issues a rare directive to curb rising illicit trafficking, his team becomes the first line of defense against a worldwide threat.
The investigation leads agents to a criminal network centered around Bada Choudhary, a key figure in international smuggling. Formidable strategist, this mafia boss leverages global logistical gaps and the complexities of air traffic to his advantage. As the operation unfolds, customs officials face mounting political pressure, intense human stakes, and a well-organized opponent capable of predicting their moves—turning every checkpoint into a tense psychological battle.
Produced by Friday Storytellers, Neeraj Pandey’s company, Taskaree: Hell of Smuggling was shot across four countries and on multiple international airport platforms. This global scope complements a storytelling approach that delves into the logistical mechanics of worldwide trafficking, along with the tactics for concealment and the security procedures involved. Having previously explored military and intelligence agencies, Neeraj Pandey continues here to examine the workings of the Indian state as it grapples with diffuse and transnational threats, according to details provided by Netflix.
The series takes a procedural approach, blending investigations, on-the-ground operations, and escalating stakes. Emraan Hashmi's performance is characterized by restraint and keen observation, steering clear of traditional heroic archetypes. Overall, it targets an adult audience that appreciates gritty thrillers and institutional dramas, reminiscent of recent Indian productions focused on organized crime and the psychological strain faced by law enforcement.
Taskaree: Hell on the Trail
Series | 2026
Season 1 available on Netflix from January 14, 2026
Thriller, drama | Number of episodes not announced
Created by Neeraj Pandey | Starring Emraan Hashmi, Sharad Kelkar, Amruta Khanvilkar, Nandish Singh Sandhu, Anurag Sinha, Zoya Afroz
Original title: Taskaree
Country: India
With Taskaree: The Hell of Smuggling, Netflix offers a dive into a discreet yet crucial world — familiar to travelers, yet largely unseen. By focusing on human struggles, institutional challenges, and the international scope of smuggling, the series adds a fresh perspective to Indian thrillers, shedding light on the backstage of air traffic control.
To explore further, check out our curated list of Netflix’s new releases for January, our comprehensive guide to latest streaming releases across all platforms, and today’s top pick in what to watch in streaming today.
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