Ranking the Best OTT Platforms in India

Choosing an OTT platform these days, with options such as Netflix, Prime, Hotstar, JioCinema, and others, can be overwhelming. It’s overwhelming and confusing, and somehow, you still end up watching the same comfort show again.

‍

Therefore, we have created a guide to the best OTT platforms available in India. No jargon, no complicated charts, just the stuff that actually matters when you're looking for your next favourite show. 

‍

We’re keeping it simple with just 5 key things to look at:

‍

• Content Library: Do they have the good stuff? New movies, juicy web series, regional gems, and guilty pleasures?
  
  
• User Experience: Is the app easy to use, or do you need a PhD to find the pause button?
  
  
• Streaming Quality: Does it stream smoothly or turn into a slideshow during the best scenes?
  
  
• Affordability: Is it reasonably priced or secretly burning a hole in your pocket?
  
  
• Language & Regional Options: From Tamil to Telugu to Bengali—does it speak your language?

Best OTT platforms in India 

‍

Amazon Prime Video

‍

Founder: Jeff Bezos / Amazon Inc.
Paid Subscribers (India estimate): Over 3 crore (30 million)
Subscription Cost: ₹299/month or ₹1,499/year (includes Amazon Prime benefits)

‍

Though an international platform, Amazon Prime Video has made a strong impact with high-quality Indian content that truly resonates. 

‍

It offers a vast catalogue featuring Bollywood hits, South Indian blockbusters, and critically acclaimed originals like Panchayat and Made in Heaven—shows blending authentic Indian storytelling with exceptional production values.

‍

The app is generally easy to use, though the search function can feel clunky at times. Streaming quality is consistent, with many titles available in HD and select 4K. 

‍

With an affordable subscription bundled with Amazon’s shopping benefits, Prime Video offers fantastic value for both entertainment and everyday convenience.

Netflix

‍

Founders: Reed Hastings & Marc Randolph
Paid Subscribers (India estimate): Around 1.2 crore (12 million)
Subscription Cost: ₹149 to ₹649/month (mobile to premium plans)

‍

Netflix has established itself as the leading global streaming platform, and its popularity is undeniable. While it’s not specifically tailored for Indian viewers, Netflix offers unmatched international variety. 

‍

From gripping Korean dramas and intense Mexican thrillers to award-winning American series, British period dramas, and edgy European cinema, the global content palette is vast.

‍

It also boasts a deep library across formats: high-quality documentaries, cult-favourite anime, unscripted reality shows, stand-up comedy specials, and experimental cinema. 

‍

Though its original Indian slate is smaller compared to local giants, Netflix remains the go-to for viewers seeking international exposure, premium storytelling, and a sleek, personalised user experience. Streaming is smooth and supports up to 4K and Dolby Atmos on premium plans.

‍

JioHotstar

‍

Founders: Originally Hotstar by Star India; merged with JioCinema by Reliance Industries
Paid Subscribers (estimate): Over 5 crore (50 million)
Subscription Cost: Starts at 149/ quarter.
₹299/quarter or ₹899/year for Premium; free tier available with ads.

‍

JioHotstar is India’s streaming powerhouse, born from the merger of JioCinema and Disney+ Hotstar into one mega-platform.

‍

It offers an immense and diverse library—from Disney and HBO blockbusters to the hottest IPL cricket matches and a rich slate of Indian originals in multiple languages.

‍

The app recently unified its experience, improving navigation, but still has room to grow. Streaming quality is strong, with support for 4K and Dolby Atmos on select content. 

‍

Pricing is competitive with ad-supported options. JioHotstar is an excellent choice for individuals seeking Bollywood, Hollywood, live sports, regional cinema, and family shows in one convenient location.

‍

SonyLIV

‍

Founder: Sony Pictures Networks India
Paid Subscribers (estimate): Around 2 crore (20 million)
Subscription Cost: starts at ₹699/year

‍

SonyLIV stands out for its gripping Indian thrillers, popular reality shows, and live sports coverage, including the UEFA Champions League and WWE. Its interface is simple but could benefit from better content recommendations.

‍

The platform quietly hosts several original series, such as Scam 1992, which is based on Indian businessman Harshad Mehta and has garnered critical acclaim, despite often being overlooked. 

‍

Streaming quality is reliable with stable HD, and pricing is mid-range. SonyLIV is perfect for viewers who love adrenaline-pumping action, sports, and compelling drama.

‍

Zee5

‍

Founder: Essel Group
Paid Subscribers (estimate): Over 6 crore (60 million)
Subscription Cost: starts at ₹120/month

‍

Zee5 boasts a massive library of TV shows, movies, and originals in over 12 Indian languages. With a deep focus on regional storytelling, it celebrates India’s rich cultural diversity through daily soaps, mythological dramas, and contemporary narratives.

‍

While the UI is clean, it feels a bit dated. Streaming quality is reliable with support for most devices. Zee5’s affordable plans make it a great pick for fans of immersive regional content and soap operas rooted in local traditions.

‍

‍

We also want to highlight some interesting regional players, who may not have the scale of Netflix and Prime, but are producing high-quality content rooted in the Indian mainland.

They are telling our stories in our languages.

Regional OTT Platforms Worth Exploring

‍

aha (Telugu & Tamil)

‍

aha delivers Telugu and Tamil content with homegrown originals, comedy, and regional drama. It’s built for the Southern viewer, with a tone and voice that’s distinctly local.

‍

Sun NXT (South Indian Languages)

‍

From live TV to classic films, Sun NXT serves Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, and Malayalam speakers with an impressive archive from the Sun Network’s channels.

‍

Hoichoi (Bengali)

‍

A favourite in Bengal and among Bengali speakers abroad, Hoichoi focuses on thrillers, literary adaptations, and originals, all with English subtitles for crossover appeal.

‍

ManoramaMax (Malayalam)

‍

Combining entertainment and news, ManoramaMax gives Malayalam viewers a blend of films, serials, and current affairs—perfect for Kerala’s discerning audience.

‍

Planet Marathi (Marathi)

‍

This niche platform brings bold, creative Marathi content to the forefront with indie films, series, and exclusive theatre productions.

‍

Chaupal (Punjabi, Haryanvi, Bhojpuri)

‍

A multilingual regional OTT that’s growing fast, Chaupal taps into under-represented stories from North India, offering culturally rooted shows and movies.

‍

Bottom Line

‍

With numerous OTT platforms competing for your attention, selecting the one that best suits your needs, whether it's exclusive original content, regional content, affordability, or streaming quality, is crucial. 

‍

India’s OTT landscape is more diverse and exciting than ever, with both global giants and regional players offering something unique. 

‍

So, whether you’re in the mood for a gripping thriller, a heartfelt drama in your mother tongue, or the latest blockbuster, there’s an OTT platform ready to be your perfect watch companion. Happy streaming!

‍