Netflix is kicking off 2026 with an adrenaline-fueled crime drama that promises to keep audiences hooked from the first episode. Titled Taskaree: The Smuggler’s Web, the series will premiere worldwide on January 14, 2026, exclusively on Netflix.
Helmed by Friday Storytellers, the show is the creation of celebrated filmmaker Neeraj Pandey, with Raghav Jairath serving as director. Known for his gripping narratives and meticulous attention to realism, Pandey returns to Netflix for his fourth collaboration, venturing into a rarely explored arena — the shadowy world of airport customs and smuggling operations.
Set against the backdrop of some of India’s busiest airports, Taskaree transports viewers into a tense environment where every suitcase could conceal contraband and every passenger might be connected to an elaborate criminal network. At the heart of this high-pressure ecosystem is Superintendent Arjun Meena, portrayed by Emraan Hashmi. Meena is a calm yet sharp-witted officer who leads a specialized team in dismantling intricate smuggling syndicates.
This project marks the first collaboration between Neeraj Pandey and Emraan Hashmi — a pairing that has already generated excitement among fans and industry insiders. The series offers Hashmi a refreshing departure from his earlier high-octane roles, allowing him to embody a more restrained, strategic character.
Speaking about the concept, Pandey shared, “Airports are familiar spaces to most of us, yet they harbor layers of activity that remain unseen. The customs department operates under immense pressure, often unnoticed by the public. With Taskaree, I wanted to pull back the curtain on this hidden world, while keeping the drama visually grand and emotionally authentic.”
Pandey also praised Netflix’s backing, saying, “Netflix supports stories that are deeply rooted in local realities while resonating on a global scale. Their creative environment felt like home.”
For Hashmi, the series brings several firsts. “Taskaree intrigued me from the beginning. Apart from stepping into the shoes of a customs officer — something I’ve never done before — I was thrilled to work alongside Srijit for the first time. Playing a character who is both understated and formidable was a rewarding experience,” he explained.
Netflix India’s Series Head, Tanya Bami, emphasized the show’s originality: “Taskaree delivers a unique mix of tone, wit, and unexpected turns. Shot across four international destinations, including multiple airports, it captures the complexity of the smuggling underworld in Neeraj Pandey’s signature style.”
The ensemble cast also includes Sharad Kelkar, Amruta Khanvilkar, Nandish Singh Sandhu, Anurag Sinha, and Zoya Afroz, each bringing intensity and depth to the narrative. With its authentic detailing, gripping plot, and stellar performances, Taskaree is set to be one of 2026’s most talked-about thrillers.
