Bollywood actor Emraan Hashmi is gearing up for the release of his upcoming crime thriller series, Taskaree: The Smuggler's Web, and is actively promoting the show with a unique and engaging approach. The series is set to premiere on Netflix on January 14, 2026, and anticipation is building for this high-stakes drama.
Taskaree: The Smuggler's Web is created by Neeraj Pandey, known for his acclaimed thrillers such as A Wednesday!, Special 26, and MS Dhoni: The Untold Story. This marks Pandey's first collaboration with Emraan Hashmi, promising a fresh and intense narrative. The series delves into the murky world of smuggling syndicates, power plays, and moral dilemmas, offering viewers an authentic and layered storyline with spirited characters.
Hashmi stars as Superintendent Arjun Meena, a sharp and observant customs officer determined to dismantle a dangerous smuggling network. The show follows Meena and his elite team as they combat a surge in high-value contraband trafficking, working to uncover the syndicate's operations and the extent of its influence. The series unfolds against the backdrop of busy airports and international trade routes, pulling viewers into the tense, fast-moving world of international contraband. The narrative spans across notorious smuggling hotspots, including Al-Dera, Addis Ababa, Milan, and Bangkok.
In a recent media event, Hashmi playfully addressed his past image as a "serial kisser" while promoting Taskaree, showcasing his versatility and evolution as an actor. He emphasized his focus on taking on diverse roles that challenge his previous typecasting. Hashmi confessed that he was immediately captivated by the premise of Taskaree, binge-reading the scripts and being drawn to its fresh take on customs operations. He noted that the series explores a territory rarely seen on screen, offering viewers a thrilling and novel experience.
The series also stars Sharad Kelkar as Bada Chaudhary, the crime boss leading the powerful smuggling syndicate, along with Amruta Khanvilkar, Nandish Singh Sandhu, Anurag Sinha, and Zoya Afroz in key roles. Khanvilkar plays a "badass Mumbai girl" working in customs, marking her debut in action roles, which required intense physical preparation.
Neeraj Pandey expressed his excitement about collaborating with Emraan Hashmi and Netflix, aiming to deliver a distinct crime thriller rooted in authenticity. He humorously commented on making a "family show" with Hashmi, acknowledging the actor's past roles.
Taskaree: The Smuggler's Web promises a blend of sharp strategy, quiet intensity, and a battle against a powerful global syndicate, offering viewers a unique glimpse into the unseen world of airport customs and international smuggling.
