Netflix’s Upcoming Indian Series “Family Business”: A Fresh Take on Corporate Power Struggles in Bollywood
As Netflix continues to expand its diverse slate of Indian original programming, the platform has recently announced Family Business, an ambitious new corporate drama set to premiere in 2026. This series has already sparked intense discussions among viewers and critics alike, particularly regarding its thematic similarities to acclaimed international shows such as Succession and Billions. However, the show’s creator and director, Hansal Mehta, has been quick to clarify that Family Business is a completely original narrative rooted in Indian culture, distancing itself from these global comparisons.
Debunking the “Succession” and “Billions” Parallels: A Director’s Perspective
In response to early reactions, Hansal Mehta emphasized that drawing parallels to international series like Succession and Billions is a superficial comparison that overlooks the unique elements of the Indian context. “Lazy comparisons,” he called them, highlighting that liking or admiring these shows doesn’t automatically mean every corporate or family saga is a copy or remake of those narratives. “It’s akin to dismissing every crime story as a Godfather clone, or every political thriller as House of Cards,” Mehta explained.
He further elaborated that while the corporate backdrop may suggest some surface-level similarities, Family Business is far from a copycat. “Our series is not inspired by or adapted from Succession. It is a wholly original creation, inspired by real Indian corporate battles, complex family dynamics, and cultural nuances that shape modern Indian business hierarchies,” he stated. This distinction is crucial, as it underscores the series’ commitment to authentically portraying the intricacies of Indian corporate families, rather than merely mimicking Western narratives.
What Makes “Family Business” a Distinctive Indian Series?
Family Business aims to carve out its own identity by delving into the complexities of Indian societal and economic realities. Unlike Western corporate dramas that often focus on cutthroat power plays within a corporate elite, this series emphasizes the emotional stakes, familial loyalties, and cultural expectations that underpin Indian business families.
Set against the vibrant, high-stakes world of Indian capitalism, the show explores how legacy, ambition, and betrayal intertwine within a powerful family empire. The narrative centers on a visionary billionaire who, after carefully selecting a successor, unexpectedly reclaims control, setting off a ruthless power struggle. The ensuing conflict features betrayal, fractured alliances, and secrets that threaten to unravel the family’s empire from within.
A Narrative Rooted in Indian Cultural Context
Mehta’s emphasis on cultural specificity is crucial. “Our series reflects the socio-cultural and emotional fabric of India,” he explained. “The characters, their motivations, and conflicts are deeply rooted in Indian traditions, values, and societal expectations, which make this series uniquely Indian and relatable to our audience.”
This focus on Indian family dynamics, societal hierarchies, and business ethics offers viewers a fresh perspective on corporate power struggles, distinct from the Western narratives that have dominated the genre. It also provides a platform for Indian stories to be told with authenticity and nuance, expanding the global understanding of Bollywood’s storytelling potential.
The Creative Team and Cast
Created by Hansal Mehta and Niren Bhatt, Family Business is produced by Abundantia Entertainment and True Story Films, known for their success in Indian streaming content. The series features an ensemble cast of some of Bollywood’s most talented actors, including:
- Anil Kapoor — a veteran actor renowned for his versatility and recent global recognition
- Vijay Varma — known for his intense performances and rising popularity in Bollywood
- Rhea Chakraborty
- Neha Dhupia
- Akash Khurana
- Anant Nag
- Raima Sen
- Madhoo Shah
- Kanwaljit Singh
The series’ star-studded cast and experienced creative team promise a compelling blend of acting talent and storytelling finesse, elevating the series’ appeal to both Indian and international audiences. Their performances are expected to bring to life the nuanced conflicts, complex characters, and emotional depth integral to the story.
Anticipation and Expectations for the Series
Since its announcement, Family Business has generated significant buzz within Bollywood and streaming communities. Its arrival in 2026 is highly anticipated, with many eager to see how it will redefine Indian corporate dramas on a global platform like Netflix.
The show is positioned not just as entertainment but also as a reflection of contemporary Indian society—highlighting themes of power, legacy, and family loyalty that resonate deeply within Bollywood’s storytelling tradition. It aims to showcase the rich tapestry of Indian culture while exploring universal themes of ambition and betrayal, making it accessible to viewers worldwide.
A New Chapter for Bollywood on Global Streaming Platforms
Netflix’s investment in Family Business underscores the platform’s commitment to promoting Bollywood’s storytelling prowess on a global stage. With India emerging as a major hub for original content, this series exemplifies how Bollywood can craft narratives that are both culturally authentic and universally engaging.
Moreover, the series’ focus on Indian corporate families provides a fresh narrative angle that many viewers find intriguing, especially in an era where power struggles and family dramas continue to captivate audiences worldwide. It’s an exciting development for Bollywood’s presence on streaming platforms, signaling a new era of innovative, culturally rooted storytelling.
Final Thoughts: A Series That Celebrates Indian Stories
As the countdown begins for Family Business’s debut, the series represents more than just another corporate drama—it’s a bold statement of India’s unique storytelling potential in the global entertainment landscape. By steering clear of superficial comparisons and emphasizing authentic Indian experiences, Hansal Mehta and his team are set to deliver a series that is both engaging and culturally enriching.
In a time when Bollywood continues to grow beyond borders, Family Business promises to be a landmark series that highlights the power of Indian stories to resonate worldwide. Fans of high-stakes drama, family sagas, and Bollywood’s vibrant storytelling traditions should keep a close watch for this upcoming series, which is poised to make a significant impact on streaming platforms and beyond.
