Dhurandhar becomes world's most-watched non-English film of 2026: Netflix CEO

A landmark moment for Indian cinema

Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos has confirmed that the Indian film Dhurandhar has become the most-watched non-English film globally in 2026. The announcement came during a virtual press interaction, where Sarandos described the film's performance as "big" — a word that barely captures the scale of this achievement.

For years, non-English films from South Korea, Spain, and France have dominated global streaming charts. Now, an Indian production has taken the top spot, signalling a shift in audience preferences worldwide. The development is being celebrated across the Indian film fraternity, though official viewership numbers have not been disclosed by Netflix yet.

What makes 'Dhurandhar' a global hit

While specific plot details remain under wraps, industry insiders suggest the film blends high-octane action with a deeply rooted Indian narrative — a combination that has resonated with viewers across continents. The movie's release on Netflix earlier this year gave it instant access to a massive subscriber base, but its sustained popularity indicates word-of-mouth traction beyond initial curiosity.

Sarandos, known for his data-driven approach, pointed to the film's performance as proof that compelling stories transcend language barriers. "The numbers speak for themselves," he said, without revealing exact figures. Netflix has historically kept viewership data close to its chest, releasing only curated lists and top-10 charts.

Impact on the Indian streaming ecosystem

The success of Dhurandhar is expected to boost confidence among Indian filmmakers and producers, who have increasingly turned to OTT platforms to reach global audiences. With theatrical releases still recovering in some markets, streaming has become a viable — and often lucrative — avenue for big-budget storytelling.

This milestone also puts Indian cinema in the same conversation as global heavyweights like Squid Game and Money Heist, which previously held similar records. The ripple effect could lead to more collaborations between Indian talent and international studios, as well as higher production values for regional films.

What's next for 'Dhurandhar'

Neither the cast nor the director has been officially confirmed in public statements, though speculation is rife on social media. Fans are already demanding a sequel, and trade analysts believe the film's success will fast-track development of a franchise. Netflix has not commented on sequel plans.

For now, the focus remains on the film's unprecedented run. As the year progresses, it will be interesting to see if Dhurandhar maintains its lead or if another non-English title dethrones it. Either way, the record is set — and Indian cinema has firmly staked its claim on the global stage.