If you’re a fan of Indian television shows, movies, or cricket, you’ve probably heard of Hotstar, India’s leading streaming service. But if you’re in the US, you might be frustrated by the regional restrictions that prevent you from accessing the full Hotstar library. The good news is that there’s a solution: using a VPN. In this blog, we’ll dive into how you can watch Indian Hotstar in the US with a VPN, and we’ll cover everything you need to know about VPNs, regional restrictions, legal implications, and more.
Disney+ vs. Disney+ Hotstar
Both are popular streaming services owned by The Walt Disney Company, but they serve different markets and offer distinct features. Disney+ was launched in November 2019 and primarily targets audiences in the US, Europe, and other Western countries. It boasts a vast library of content from Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic, providing a seamless and high-quality streaming experience with original series like “The Mandalorian” and “WandaVision.”
On the other hand, Disney+ Hotstar, which serves markets like India and Indonesia, combines Disney+ content with a rich array of local offerings. This includes Bollywood movies, regional TV shows, and live sports events, such as cricket matches. Disney+ Hotstar also offers a more affordable subscription model with both ad-supported and premium plans to cater to diverse audience segments. While Disney+ focuses on a broad international audience with its premium content, Disney+ Hotstar tailors its offerings to meet the local tastes and preferences of its regional users, making each service unique in its own right.
Can I Watch Indian Hotstar in the US with A VPN?
Sure! You can watch Indian Hotstar in the US with a VPN. By using a VPN client, you can mask your IP address and make it appear as though you are browsing from India. This allows you to bypass the regional restrictions imposed by Hotstar and access its full Indian library, including popular Bollywood movies, Indian TV shows, and live sports events like cricket matches. To do this, you’ll need to choose a reliable VPN service for Indian server connection, or else you might get caught because of using a terrible VPN to access geo-restricted content and violate Hotstar’s terms of service, leading to account suspension.
How to Watch Indian Hotstar in the US With A VPN?
To watch Indian Hotstar in the US using VPN, follow this step-by-step guide. This process will help you bypass regional restrictions and enjoy your favorite content seamlessly
Step 1: Choose a Reliable Indian VPN
To begin your journey to watch Indian Hotstar in the US, you need to select a VPN that is known for its ability to bypass geo-restrictions on streaming services. Some of the top recommendations include:
- ExpressVPN: Known for its speed and large number of server locations in India, ExpressVPN is a popular choice for streaming Hotstar shows and movies.
- Surfshark: Recommended because of budget-friendly price with unlimited device connections.
- BearVPN: Picked due to more new Indian servers that are less likely to be blacklisted by Disney+ Hotstar, both cheap and free options, and up to 10 device connections.
- NordVPN: Reputed for a strong focus on security and privacy, NordVPN also offers numerous servers optimized for streaming.
- CyberGhost: User-friendly and affordable, CyberGhost is another great option for accessing geo-restricted content in India from the US.
Key Features to Look For Indian Hotstar VPN
If you are not satisfied with those India VPN options above and want to select another VPN to watch Indian Hotstar in the US, you should consider the following key features for streaming:
- Speed: Streaming requires a fast connection to avoid buffering.
- Server Locations: More server locations mean more options for bypassing restrictions.
- Security: Look for strong encryption and a no-logs policy to protect your online privacy and escape from government censorship.
Step 2: Compare Prices and Sign Up for Hotstar VPN
Once you decide which VPN to use for watching Indian Hotstar in the US, mind your wallet! The best option is to go with the VPN provider’s money-back plan in case you don’t get what you want. And after that, choose the best deals offered.
- Visit the official website of your chosen VPN provider.
- Go to the Pricing tab and choose a subscription plan that suits your needs. But be careful of offers that recommend subscriptions for up to 3-4 years, as investing too much in the future of a VPN product is not a good idea considering that more and more global VPN providers are getting blocked.
- Sign up and complete the registration process by providing your email and payment information as you do for any other paid products.
Step 3: Download and Install the VPN App
Most Indian VPN will guide you to download their product immediately you signed up and subscribed. But be careful with those claiming to be free Hotstar VPN but ask for payment once you download it on your device.
- In the Official website of the VPN provider you choose, your device and operating system are often automatically recognized and get the download option directly. If not, you can manually download the VPN application compatible with your device, be it Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, or FireStick TV.
- Install the app following the on-screen instructions.
Step 4: Connect to an Indian Server
Now that the app is installed, you’re ready to connect to an Indian server to access Hotstar.
- Open the VPN app and log in with your credentials.
- From the server list, select a server located in India.
- Click “Connect” to establish a secure connection.
Step 5: Clear Browser Cache (if necessary)
Having connected to an Indian server, you may need to clear your browser cacheIf you encounter issues when watching Indian Hotstar in the US with a VPN.
- For Chrome: Go to Settings > Privacy and Security > Clear Browsing Data.
- For Firefox: Options > Privacy & Security > Cookies and Site Data > Clear Data.
Step 6: Access Indian Hotstar
Once your cache is cleared, you can now access Indian Hotstar without any hurdles.
- Open your web browser or Hotstar app.
- Navigate to the Hotstar website or launch the app.
- Log in or create an account if you don’t have one already.
Now that you’re connected through an Indian server, you should be able to access all available content on Indian Hotstar. Select your desired show or movie and enjoy streaming!
Troubleshooting Tips: Watch Indian Hotstar in the US
- If Hotstar is still blocked: Try connecting to another Indian server within your VPN app.
- For buffering issues: Ensure you are connected to a nearby server for better speeds, or check your internet connection stability. Some providers may have specialized tunnels for Hotstar streaming.
By following these steps, you can successfully watch Indian Hotstar in the US with a VPN, unlocking a world of entertainment right at your fingertips!
Is It Legal to Watch Indian Hotstar in the US with a VPN?
Using a VPN to access geo-restricted content falls into a gray area. While using a VPN itself is legal in most countries, accessing content that is not available in your region can violate the terms of service of the streaming platform. It’s crucial to be aware of these terms to avoid potential legal issues or account suspensions.
From an ethical standpoint, bypassing regional restrictions might be seen as undermining the licensing agreements that content creators rely on. These agreements help fund the production of the shows and movies we love. While the temptation to access more content is strong, it’s important to consider the broader impact on the industry.
Can I Watch Indian Hotstar in the US without a VPN?
Accessing Indian Hotstar in the US without a VPN is quite challenging because Indian Hotstar, now rebranded as Disney+ Hotstar, is no longer available as a standalone service in the US. As a result, users cannot directly access the full content library from within the country without using a VPN or alternative methods. Considering that some content from Hotstar is available through platforms like Hulu and ESPN+ as part of the Disney bundle, you can access limited content from Hotstar Without a VPN, but the selection is limited and does not represent the complete range of shows and movies found on the Indian version of Hotstar.
- Free Content Access: While it is technically possible to access some free content on Hotstar without a subscription, this is generally restricted and may still require a VPN to bypass geolocation barriers.
- Alternative Methods:
- StreamLocator: This service allows users to access Hotstar without needing to install a VPN on every device. It works by making it appear as though you are in India, but you may still need an Indian payment method and phone number for account setup.
- Disney+ Bundle: Subscribing to the Disney+ bundle may provide access to select Hotstar content, but again, this will not include everything available on the Indian platform.
In summary, while it is technically possible to watch some limited content from Hotstar in the US without a VPN, accessing the full library requires either a VPN or alternative solutions like StreamLocator. For those looking to enjoy the complete range of shows and movies that Indian Hotstar offers, using a VPN remains the most effective method.
Most Popular Indian Hotstar Content for US Audiences
Indian Hotstar offers a rich library of content that includes popular shows like “Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai,” movies like “Dil Bechara,” and live sports events such as IPL cricket matches. Now since you can access Hotstar from the US with a VPN, Here are some of the most-watched recommendations to watch in 2024.
- The Night Manager: A gripping adaptation of John le Carré’s novel, this series features a stellar cast including Anil Kapoor and Aditya Roy Kapur. Its thrilling plot and high production values have made it a hit among viewers.
- Kohrra: This crime drama series delves into the complexities of a murder investigation in Punjab. Its realistic storytelling and strong character development have resonated well with audiences, making it one of the most talked-about shows.
- Aashram Season 4: Continuing its success, this season explores deeper themes of spirituality and crime, attracting a loyal fanbase eager to see what happens next in the saga.
- Dahaad: Starring Sonakshi Sinha, this series follows a female cop investigating a series of mysterious deaths. Its unique perspective and strong performances have garnered significant attention.
- Bambai Meri Jaan: This crime drama set in the underbelly of Mumbai during the 1960s has captivated audiences with its engaging narrative and strong performances, particularly from its lead actors.
- Special Ops 1.5: The Himmat Story: A prequel to the original Special Ops, this series dives deeper into the backstory of Himmat Singh, played by Kay Kay Menon. It has been well-received for its intense storytelling and action sequences.
- Rudra: The Edge of Darkness Season 2：Following the success of its first season, this psychological thriller continues to engage viewers with its dark themes and compelling characters.
- Masoom: This family drama explores complex relationships and secrets within a family, resonating with audiences looking for emotional depth and relatable narratives.
- Kahaani Rubberband Ki: A unique blend of drama and comedy, this new series has caught the attention of viewers with its fresh take on everyday life situations.
These recent titles showcase the diverse content available on Indian Hotstar that appeals to US audiences in 2024. From gripping dramas to thrilling adaptations, there’s something for everyone looking to explore Indian storytelling through this platform. If you’re interested in these shows, you can easily watch Indian Hotstar in the US with a VPN!
Conclusion
In conclusion, while using a VPN to watch Indian Hotstar in the US is a popular workaround, it’s important to be aware of the legal and ethical considerations. VPNs can provide access to a broader range of content, but they also come with risks and potential consequences. By choosing a reliable VPN like BearVPN and being mindful of the terms of service, you can enjoy your favorite Indian shows and movies while staying informed and responsible.
