Bollywood superstar Saif Ali Khan is set to headline the upcoming investigative drama Kartavya, produced by Shah Rukh Khan’s Red Chillies Entertainment. The film was unveiled at Netflix India’s Next on Netflix 2026 slate event, where it was announced alongside another Saif-led project, Hum Hindustani, signaling a major OTT year for the actor.
Netflix India captioned the first-look post: “Dharm aur karm ke yuddh mein, kya kartavya jeet payega? Watch Kartavya, coming soon, only on Netflix.” The teaser images portray Saif as police officer Pawan Malik, caught in high-stakes situations, gripping his gun beneath flashing lights, and confronting threats that endanger both law and family.
In Kartavya, Malik faces a moral and ethical crossroads, forced to navigate between his duty as a cop and the safety of his loved ones. The narrative promises tense investigative sequences, gritty crime scenarios, and intense family drama, blending procedural suspense with emotional stakes.
The supporting cast includes Rasika Dugal as Malik’s wife, Sanjay Mishra in a pivotal role, and journalist Saurabh Dwivedi, lending authenticity to the investigative layers of the story. Pulkit, director of the critically noted thriller Bhakshak, helms the series, bringing a taut, grounded style to the crime drama.
Netflix India’s teaser hints at a raw, heartland-inspired crime narrative, showcasing shadowy cityscapes, tense confrontations, and Pawan Malik’s relentless pursuit of justice. Fans have already expressed excitement over Saif returning to morally complex roles, especially within a streaming platform that allows for darker, nuanced storytelling.
With Kartavya, Netflix India aims to strengthen its 2026 lineup of intense, character-driven Indian thrillers, merging star power with socially rooted narratives. The series is expected to resonate with audiences seeking gripping crime dramas alongside emotional depth and moral dilemmas.