Indian filmmaker Anurag Kashyap has recently taken aim at Netflix’s co-CEO, Ted Sarandos, labeling him as “the definition of dumb” in response to comments made about the popular series “Sacred Games.” The show, which premiered in 2018, is Netflix’s first Indian original series and has garnered a significant following both in India and internationally.
Kashyap, who co-directed “Sacred Games” alongside Vikramaditya Motwane, expressed his frustration with Sarandos and Netflix’s early strategy in India. The filmmaker criticized the streaming giant’s approach to content creation and distribution in the country, highlighting what he perceives as shortcomings in understanding the Indian audience and market.
“Sacred Games,” a neo-noir thriller based on Vikram Chandra’s novel of the same name, has been praised for its gripping storyline, complex characters, and exploration of socio-political themes. The series has been lauded for its bold and unapologetic portrayal of contemporary Indian society, drawing both critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base.
Netflix’s foray into original Indian content with “Sacred Games” marked a significant milestone in the streaming service’s global expansion. The success of the series has paved the way for other Indian productions on Netflix and has contributed to the platform’s growing presence in the Indian entertainment industry.
Sarandos’ comments regarding “Sacred Games” and Netflix’s approach to content creation in India have sparked a debate within the industry and among fans of the show. Some have defended Netflix’s efforts to diversify its content offerings and engage with diverse audiences, while others echo Kashyap’s sentiments about the need for a deeper understanding of the Indian market.
As the streaming landscape continues to evolve, the clash between artistic integrity, cultural relevance, and commercial viability remains a central theme in discussions surrounding the global entertainment industry. The tension between creative vision and business strategy underscores the complexities of producing and distributing content in a rapidly changing media landscape.
In the midst of these debates, Anurag Kashyap’s outspoken criticism of Ted Sarandos and Netflix’s approach to Indian content creation serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges and opportunities facing filmmakers, streaming platforms, and audiences in an increasingly interconnected world.
References:
– Variety. (2025). Anurag Kashyap Slams Netflix’s Ted Sarandos as ‘Definition of Dumb’ Over ‘Sacred Games’ Comments. Retrieved from https://variety.com/2025/tv/news/anurag-kashyap-ted-sarandos-sacred-games-comments-netflix-1236422408/
