Taskaree: The Smuggler’s Web – Season 1 (2026) is a Hindi-language crime thriller created by Neeraj Pandey for Netflix. The series dives into the hidden world of international smuggling networks operating through one of India’s busiest airports, combining investigative drama with high-stakes action.
The story follows Superintendent Arjun Meena, played by Emraan Hashmi, who leads a specialized Indian Customs team determined to crack down on a powerful gold smuggling syndicate. Set primarily at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, the series portrays the constant cat-and-mouse battle between law enforcement officers and organized crime operators who exploit international travel routes.
Season 1 consists of seven episodes, each unfolding layers of corruption, betrayal, and strategic deception. The narrative explores not only the external threat posed by smugglers but also internal challenges within the system, where politics and pressure often complicate justice. The antagonist, portrayed by Sharad Kelkar, adds intensity to the story, creating a strong face-off dynamic with Hashmi’s principled officer.
What sets the show apart is its grounded treatment of customs operations, an area rarely explored in Indian web series. Instead of focusing solely on shootouts and spectacle, Taskaree builds tension through intelligence work, undercover missions, and strategic raids. The atmosphere remains tense throughout, with each episode escalating the conflict and deepening the stakes.
Upon release in January 2026, the series generated significant buzz for its realistic tone and strong performances. While some viewers found the pacing deliberate, many appreciated its attempt to spotlight a lesser-seen branch of law enforcement and its morally layered storytelling.
Overall, Taskaree: The Smuggler’s Web Season 1 stands as a gripping addition to India’s growing slate of crime thrillers on streaming platforms, blending procedural depth with suspense-driven drama.
