Netflix CEO calls Dhurandhar biggest non-English film globally this year

Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos has singled out the Indian film Dhurandhar as the platform's biggest non-English film globally this year. The admission came during a recent interaction, where Sarandos acknowledged the movie's staggering viewership numbers across markets. While specific figures were not disclosed, the statement places the film ahead of other international titles on the streaming service in 2026.

A Landmark Moment for Indian Cinema

Sarandos's remark is a significant validation for the Indian film industry, which has long sought mainstream recognition on global streaming charts. Dhurandhar, a Hindi-language feature, has reportedly outperformed several high-profile international releases on Netflix this year. The film's success is being attributed to its strong storytelling and universal themes that resonate with audiences beyond India's borders.

The co-CEO's comment came in response to a question about the platform's performance in international markets. He highlighted Dhurandhar as a standout example of how non-English content can achieve massive reach. The film's run on the streaming giant has been closely watched by industry analysts, who see it as a bellwether for Indian content's global appetite.

Netflix's Growing Bet on India

This development reinforces Netflix's aggressive push into the Indian market, where it has invested heavily in original films and series across multiple languages. The company has consistently expanded its slate of Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and other regional productions, betting on their crossover appeal. Dhurandhar—a project that blends action and drama—appears to have struck a chord with a wide demographic, from metro cities to smaller towns.

Industry insiders suggest that the film's success could prompt Netflix to greenlight more high-concept Indian projects with global ambitions. The streaming service has already announced several upcoming Indian originals, but Dhurandhar's performance may alter the calculus for what gets prioritized. For now, the film's team and its lead actors have not issued a public statement, but celebrations are expected within the industry.

Global Streaming Trends Favor Local Stories

The rise of Dhurandhar is part of a broader trend where non-English content is dominating global streaming charts. From Korean and Spanish to Indian productions, audiences are increasingly embracing subtitled and dubbed content. Netflix's own data has shown that international titles account for a significant chunk of viewing hours on its platform. Sarandos's mention of Dhurandhar at an international forum underscores how far Indian cinema has come from being a niche category to a mainstream powerhouse.

However, the film's success is not just a win for Netflix. It also reflects the evolving tastes of Indian viewers, who are flocking to streaming platforms for content that feels both familiar and fresh. The movie's plot, which reportedly revolves around a high-stakes heist, has been praised for its slick execution and gripping narrative. Critics have noted that the film's pacing and performances elevate it above typical masala entertainers.

What This Means for the Industry

The recognition from Netflix's top executive is likely to have ripple effects across Bollywood and regional film industries. Producers may now push for more stories that blend local sensibilities with universal appeal, knowing that platforms like Netflix can amplify them to a global audience. It also signals that Indian talent—actors, directors, and technicians—can compete on the world stage without compromising their cultural roots.

For viewers, the success of Dhurandhar means more such films are on the horizon. Netflix has already lined up a diverse slate of Indian titles for the coming year, and the bar has been raised. The film's journey from a domestic release to a global phenomenon is a testament to the power of streaming in democratizing content access.

As the year progresses, all eyes will be on Netflix's year-end reports to see if Dhurandhar maintains its pole position. The streaming giant is expected to release its global top-10 lists for 2026 in December, and the film's final ranking will be a talking point for months. For now, the Indian film industry can bask in a rare moment of global spotlight.