Lust Stories 2: 7 similar Indian anthology movies and shows to watch on OTT

The highly-anticipated sequel to the Netflix film, Lust Stories which was released on Netflix on June 29th has already become one of the most popular titles on the streamer. The anthology film Lust Stories 2 packs a collection of stories set in various corners of India that explore the many facets of the most basic urges. While sex positivity may be the order of the day, any conversation about getting between the sheets still evokes surprise, shock and even embarrassment in a sexually-repressed and conservative Indian society. Picture a granny dispensing nuggets of wisdom on the importance of sharing healthy carnal relations between couples during a matchmaking session in the presence of the entire family. Lust Stories 2 explores sexuality and desire from the female lens. So the show introduces us to women who are not afraid to claim their sexuality and are quintessentially unapologetic about their needs and desires. The anthology features an ensemble cast comprising Tamannaah Bhatia, Kajol, Vijay Varma, and Mrunal Thakur among others. So for today’s List hai toh hit hai, we have curated a list of similar Indian anthologies that you need to stream right now.

Unpaused

The first one on the list is the anthology mini-series Unpaused. The show includes tales that explore themes of hope, love, and companionship. Set amidst the global pandemic, it focuses on five stories about how COVID-19 affected various individuals across India and how they grappled with trying situations with inimitable drive and conviction. Raj & DK, Tannishtha Chatterjee, Nitya Mehra, Nikkhil Advani, and Avinash Arun serve as the directors of the parallel stories, and the series features an ensemble cast. Unpaused is available to stream on Prime Video, and a sequel titled Unpaused: Naya Safar was also released in 2022.

C/O Kaadhal

The Netflix original Tamil anthology film directed by Hemambar Jasti, ℅ Kaadhal is a remake of the Telugu anthology film C/o Kancharapalem. Starring Deepan N, Karthik Rathnam, Vetri, and Mumtaz Sorcar in prominent roles, the film takes a deep dive into an individual’s perception of love. These stories are told through the lens of four protagonists who’re tied together through a common thread. Giving away how their tumultuous and inspiring stories fold up would be a spoiler. But once you run through them, we can assure you that this one will be a rewarding watch.

Paava Kadhaigal

The Tamil anthology film Paava Kadhaigal is directed by renowned filmmakers Sudha Kongara, Gautham Vasudev Menon, Vetrimaaran. and Vignesh Shivan. The critically-acclaimed drama explores how honour and pride impact love and relationships. The film features four unique stories and a star-studded ensemble of Kalidas Jayaram, Sai Pallavi, Simran, Anjali, Shanthanu Bhagyaraj, Prakash Raj, and Kalki Koechlin among others. This anthology can be a difficult watch as it explores the challenges faced by some in their pursuit of love, and it also demonstrates that the pain that accompanies longing can be particularly excruciating. That said, it also makes for a bittersweet watch that keeps you hooked and hopeful for the characters on the screen.

Modern Love: Chennai

Set in the capital city of Tamil Nadu, Modern Love: Chennai is a spin-off to the hit American anthology series Modern Love. The series revolves around six captivating love stories that transcend age, class, and gender. The series is available to stream on Amazon Prime Video.

Lipstick under my Burkha

Directed by Alankrita Shrivastava, Lipstick under my Burkha is a 2016 Hindi black comedy that revolves around four women who silently rebel against the oppression they are forced to endure, in order to fulfil their desires. The film explores themes of self-discovery and sexuality, and it features Ratna Pathak, Konkona Sen Sharma, Aahana Kumra, and Plabita Borthakur in lead roles. This one resonates closely with Lust Stories as it also features fearless females who aren’t afraid to speak their hearts and are willing to take on anyone who attempts to challenge their choices.

Ajeeb Daastaans

The anthology 2021 Ajeeb Daastaans features four short stories focusing on how unexpected events in relationships can sometimes act as catalysts for chaos. The four short films are helmed by Shashank Khaitan, Raj Mehta, Neeraj Ghaywan, and Kayoze Irani, and star Fatima Sana Shaikh, Konkona Sen Sharma, Aditi Rao Hydari, Shefali Shah, and Nushrratt Bharuccha in prominent roles.

Ray

The Netflix original series, Ray, is adapted from a collection of stories written by the legendary auteur Satyajit Ray. Helmed by Sayantan Mukherjee, the series offers four stories directed by Srijit Mukherji, Vasan Bala, and Abhishek Chaubey. Bollywood stars Manoj Bajpayee, Kay Kay Menon, Ali Fazal, and Harshvardhan Kapoor essay pivotal roles in the series that offer a contemporary take on Ray’s classic stories. The series explores several genres ranging from political satires to psychological thrillers.

Well that's the List hai toh hit hai episode for today, until the next time it's your host Nikhil signing out.

Aaj kya dekhoge OTTplay se poocho

Written by Ryan Gomez