Highlights
- Mirzapur has featured in IMDb’s annual top 10 popular shows list nine times since its 2018 premiere.
- Pankaj Tripathi believes the crime drama’s authentic Indian setting and relatable human conflicts have helped it connect with audiences worldwide.
- The actor says the show’s success is a collective achievement, while Mirzapur Season 4 remains in development.
Mirzapur has established itself as one of India’s most enduring streaming franchises, appearing in IMDb’s annual top 10 popular shows list nine times since its debut in 2018.
Pankaj Tripathi, who plays the formidable Kaleen Bhaiyya in the Prime Video crime drama, believes the show’s lasting appeal comes from its authentic portrayal of Indian life and characters whose ambitions, relationships, and struggles resonate with viewers beyond the country.
Pankaj Tripathi explains Mirzapur’s global appeal
Speaking to Mid-Day, Tripathi reflected on how a story rooted in a specific Indian setting has found audiences across different regions.
“These are characters and conflicts that emerge from a recognisable Indian setting, yet their ambitions, relationships, and struggles connect with audiences across geographies. When a story rooted in a specific place travels across the country and finds viewers around the world, it shows that authenticity has no borders,” the actor said.
Created by Puneet Krishna and Karan Anshuman, Mirzapur follows gang wars, criminal rivalries, and battles for power in Uttar Pradesh. Its gritty setting, morally complex characters, and volatile relationships have helped distinguish it in India's streaming landscape.
Tripathi’s comments highlight how a story grounded in a particular culture can still explore themes that resonate with international audiences.
Mirzapur reaches a major IMDb milestone
According to IMDb’s report, 10 Years of Streaming in India, Mirzapur has appeared in the platform’s annual top 10 popular shows list nine times since its 2018 premiere.
The series topped the yearly ranking once, in 2024. Its repeated appearances across the decade underline its staying power in an increasingly competitive streaming market.
The franchise has also expanded beyond the series. Mirzapur: The Movie reportedly earned more than ₹225 crore at the Indian box office earlier this year, further demonstrating the property’s commercial reach across formats.
Tripathi, however, was quick to point out that the recognition belongs to the entire team behind the show, not just its cast.
“A character becomes iconic because of the collective effort behind it. This recognition belongs to the entire cast, writers, directors, and every member of the team,” he said.
Mirzapur Season 4 update
The fourth season of Mirzapur is in development, with director Gurmmeet Singh confirming that work on the scripts is underway.
Shweta Tripathi, who plays Golu Gupta, has also expressed interest in returning to the character and exploring how her experiences continue to shape her.
According to a previous Mid-Day report published on October 18, 2026, the production timeline is expected to be finalized by early 2027. An official release date has not yet been announced.
With its repeated appearances on IMDb’s popular shows list and a franchise that continues to expand, Mirzapur remains a significant title in India's streaming landscape.
