In a landmark year for Telugu web series, 2023 witnessed a surge in the popularity of suspenseful thrillers. These series have captivated audiences with innovative narratives and stellar performances. Among the standout releases, Dhootha, Vadhuvu, and others have grasped the audience’s attention. We have curated a list of the best Telugu thriller series of the year.
1. Dhootha
Dhootha is a suspenseful thriller that was released on December 1, 2023. It took Telugu audiences on a roller coaster ride of suspense and intrigue. The narrative is extremely powerful and impactful. The series is helmed by a stellar ensemble cast, including Naga Chaitanya, Parvathy Thiruvothu, Priya Bhavani Shankar, Prachi Desai, and Tharun Bhascker.
It revolves around Sagar, a journalist who stumbles upon newspapers predicting tragic events. As he digs deeper, he finds himself accused of murder, leading to a race against time to clear his name. Dhootha masterfully navigates through perilous twists, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats.
2. Vadhuvu
Vadhuvu, is directed by Krishna Poluru and available on Disney+ Hotstar. It marks Avika Gor’s second collaboration with the streaming giant after Mansion 24. The series follows a young woman on the brink of marriage as she enters a house shrouded in secrets and mysteries.
The Telugu series has an impressive ensemble cast featuring Ali Reza, Nandu, Roopa Laxmi, and Mounika. Vadhuvu sets the stage for a gripping narrative. Drawing from his experience in television, director Krishna Poluru also managed to shoot the series in record time, adding to its allure.
3. Mansion 24
Mansion 24, a horror thriller series, premiered on Disney+ Hotstar on October 17, 2023. Written by Mayukh Adithya and directed by Ohmkar. The series follows investigative journalist Amrutha in search of her missing father, accused of stealing a valuable artefact. Amrutha’s quest leads her to an ominous mansion, believed to be the last known location of her father. The series unfolds a chilling tale of mystery and suspense, with Varalaxmi Sarathkumar delivering a compelling performance. Mansion 24 also stars Avika Gor as Swapna.
4. Dayaa
Released on August 4, 2023, Dayaa is a crime thriller series written and directed by Pavan Sadineni. J. D. Chakravarthy takes on the titular role of a driver whose life takes an unexpected turn when he discovers a dead body in his freezer van. The series, widely praised for its strong storyline, explores the after-effects of this discovery, pushing the central character and his best friend into increasingly demanding situations.
5. Puli Meka
Puli Meka, a crime thriller series helmed by Chakravarthy Reddy, unfolds against the backdrop of Hyderabad. The series follows a female cop leading a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to solve a series of brutal cop murders. Collaborating with a forensic expert, they uncover shocking revelations as they race against time to apprehend the elusive killer. The series, fueled by a commitment to justice, takes viewers on a challenging journey through the underbelly of crime in Hyderabad.
In summary, 2023 has been a groundbreaking year for Telugu web series. With the above-mentioned series standing out as the best thriller series. These gripping narratives, coupled with stellar performances, have not only entertained but also elevated the standard of storytelling in the Telugu OTT space. As audiences eagerly anticipate what 2024 has in store, these series have set a high bar for the industry’s future endeavors.
