BBC’s 1950s India drama ‘A Suitable Boy’ will premiere worldwide on Netflix

Netflix has acquired the global streaming rights to A Suitable Boy.

Based on Vikram Seth’s modern classic, the BBC’s new six-part period drama has been adapted by Sanditon screenwriter Andrew Davies.

First published in 1993, A Suitable Boy tells the story of a young woman’s search for love and identity in India during the 1950s.

The mini-series begins in the UK next Sunday on BBC One.

It’s now been announced that international viewers will be able to watch the show exclusively on Netflix, everywhere apart from Canada, the United States and China.

Watch the trailer:

 

Netflix subscribers in the UK and Ireland will be able to watch it one year after its BBC premiere, although they can catch up on BBC iPlayer during that time.

Caroline Stone, Director of Independent Drama at BBC Studios commented: “The demand for quality British drama is higher than ever globally so we are thrilled to be partnering with Netflix on this wonderful series to bring audiences around the world Vikram Seth’s literary classic reimagined with such colour and vigour.”

Damian Keogh, Managing Director of Lookout Point, added: “We’re hugely excited to be partnering with Netflix to bring A Suitable Boy to international audiences, hot on the heels of its UK debut on BBC One.”

A Suitable Boy stars Bollywood actor Ishaan Khatter (Beyond the CloudsDhadak) and Indian film actress Tabu (Life of PiAndhadhun), alongside newcomer Tanya Maniktala.

The official synopsis reads: “A Suitable Boy is the story of Lata, a young woman coming of age in northern India in 1951. Lata’s mother Mrs Rupa Mehra is determined to find her a husband, but after her sister’s conventional arranged marriage Lata is not convinced she wants the same path through life.

“Torn between duty to her family and the excitement of romance, Lata embarks on an epic journey of love, desire and heartache as three very different suitors vie for her hand.

“Her choice will play out against the tumultuous political backdrop of India at a crossroads, looking towards its first independent general election and carving out its own destiny.”

A broadcaster in the US has not been confirmed yet.

Vikram Seth’s novel A Suitable Boy is available on Amazon.