Netflix’s $2 Billion Bet on India Sparks Creative Boom, Says Co-CEO Ted Sarandos

Mumbai, May 3: Netflix’s investments in India have delivered over $2 billion in economic impact since the COVID-19 pandemic, according to Ted Sarandos, the company’s Co-CEO. Speaking at the inaugural World Audio Visual and Entertainment Summit (WAVES) in Mumbai, Sarandos highlighted how streaming has transformed storytelling and creative opportunities across the country.

“In post-COVID India, our investments have generated more than $2 billion worth of economic activity. That includes job creation, skill development, and support for local infrastructure,” Sarandos said during a conversation with actor Saif Ali Khan. He noted that Netflix has filmed in over 100 cities across 23 Indian states, collaborating with more than 25,000 cast and crew members.

Discussing the future of storytelling, Sarandos admitted it’s hard to predict exact trends but emphasized that the desire to connect with audiences remains a constant driving force. Saif Ali Khan, known for his role in the Netflix series Sacred Games, shared that streaming platforms have freed creators from outdated cinematic formats and allowed stories to reach a global audience.

“Earlier, we had rigid constraints. Now, diverse stories get told and seen worldwide,” Saif said. He emphasized how platforms like Netflix have empowered Indian filmmakers to explore themes rooted in local culture. “When someone abroad asks about my films, I talk about Omkaara or Parineeta. There’s real pride in sharing our stories with the world.”

Sarandos added that streaming doesn’t threaten traditional cinema but can coexist with it. “Cinemas still matter. Streaming and theatres can both grow — the market is large enough.”

Both speakers hailed WAVES as a crucial initiative that promotes collaboration between global and Indian content creators. Sarandos called the summit a “fantastic platform” to fuel new creative momentum.