A new unexplored world

Indian thriller series Taskaree: The Smuggler’s Web premieres on January 14 on Netflix.

The show follows dedicated customs officer Arjun Meena (Emraan Hashmi), who is razor-sharp, calm and calculating.

He cracks down on airport smuggling with his team, making sure to check luxury goods hidden in plain sight to organised international syndicates.

As previously reported in GulfWeekly’s sister paper GDN, part of the series was shot in Bahrain, in collaboration with Bahrain-based producers Yousif Al Sahhaf, Mohamed Fareed and Vivian Pinto.

Short clips in the trailer showcase some of the kingdom’s iconic locations, including Bahrain Bay and Nurana.

Created by Neeraj Pandey, the seven episodes are expected to feature his signature blend of sharp storytelling, grounded humour, and globe-trotting tension with high-stakes thrills.

“Airports are familiar to all of us, yet what unfolds behind the scenes is rarely seen,” Neeraj said in an interview.

“The world of customs is not something that has been explored on screen, and that was part of the appeal in our endeavour to introduce our audiences to a new unexplored world which is quiet, disciplined, and high-pressure,” he added.

“With Taskaree, we bring together an ensemble that could reflect the complexity with depth and conviction,”

Bollywood superstar Emraan found his first experience working with the notable director ‘exciting’.

“Taskaree was exciting for me on many levels. It’s my first time working with Neeraj Pandey, and stepping into his world. Playing a customs officer is new territory for me, and Arjun Meena isn’t loud or flashy, he’s calm, observant and always thinking two steps ahead. I’m really looking forward to audiences seeing me in this new role,” the actor remarked.

Netflix India series head Tanya Bami is thrilled to kick off 2026 with the show.

“Filmed across four countries and multiple international airports, the show unpacks an intricate smuggler’s network in classic Neeraj Pandey style. It offers a fresh, immersive perspective that will be relatable for anyone who has ever taken a flight,” she added.