World Television Day: 5 Iconic TV Shows That Shaped Indian Television.

Indian television has undergone a dramatic transformation over the years, with certain shows leaving an indelible mark on the industry and its viewers. These shows redefined storytelling, explored diverse genres, and set new standards for audience engagement. As we celebrate World Television Day, let’s look back at five groundbreaking TV shows that have played a pivotal role in shaping Indian television into the dynamic medium it is today.

1. Ramayan – A Mythological Epic that United the Nation

Aired on DD National from 1987 to 1988, Ramayan directed by Ramanand Sagar became a cultural phenomenon. Based on the ancient texts of Valmiki’s Ramayan and Tulsidas’ Ramcharitmanas, the mythological series captured the hearts of millions. Narrated by Ashok Kumar, Ramayan garnered a staggering 82% viewership in India and reached over 650 million viewers worldwide. It is widely regarded as the world’s most-watched TV series, leaving a lasting impact on Indian pop culture. The show’s portrayal of Lord Ram’s journey became a unifying force, transcending regional and cultural barriers. Its legacy continues with repeat telecasts on more than 20 channels across 17 countries and streaming on Shemaroo TV.

2. Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah – A Comedy That Redefined Family Entertainment

Since its debut in 2008, Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah has been a trailblazer in blending humor with social commentary. Set in Mumbai’s Gokuldham Society, the show brings together a diverse cast representing various Indian cultures, with Jethalal Gada (played by Dilip Joshi) becoming an iconic character for his hilarious antics. Created by Asit Kumar Modi, the series has remained a timeless favorite due to its family-friendly content, relatable storytelling, and focus on community values. As a result, Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah has been able to run successfully for over a decade, maintaining its status as one of the longest-running Indian sitcoms.

3. Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi – The Family Soap Opera That Redefined Drama

Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi became a game-changer for Indian television when it premiered in 2000. Co-produced by Ekta Kapoor’s Balaji Telefilms, the show centered around Tulsi Virani (Smriti Irani), an ideal daughter-in-law navigating the complexities of family life. The show’s emotional storytelling, dramatic twists, and strong character arcs made it a household name, and it quickly became the flagship show of Star Plus. It dominated Indian prime-time TV for over six years, achieving a record-breaking TRP of 22.4 in 2001. This iconic serial not only made Ekta Kapoor a household name but also set the stage for the era of family soaps, influencing many subsequent drama series. The show is now available for streaming on Hotstar.

4. CID – A Crime Thriller that Set the Standard for Police Procedurals

When CID premiered in 1998, it changed the face of crime thrillers on Indian television. Created by B.P. Singh, this gripping police procedural aired for over two decades, becoming one of the longest-running shows in Indian television history. The show’s iconic characters like ACP Pradyuman (Shivaji Satam), Daya (Dayanand Shetty), and Abhijeet (Aditya Srivastava) became household names, and their investigations kept viewers on the edge of their seats. With over 1,500 episodes, CID became a cult classic and influenced the rise of many crime-based shows. It is currently streaming on SonyLiv, continuing to captivate audiences with its gripping mysteries and timeless appeal.

5. Bigg Boss – The Reality Show That Redefined Viewer Engagement

Since its debut in 2006, Bigg Boss has redefined reality television in India. Based on the Dutch format of Big Brother, the show brings together a group of celebrities and commoners who live under constant surveillance, navigating alliances, conflicts, and drama. The show’s immense popularity is credited to its dynamic hosts, including Salman Khan, and its ability to keep viewers hooked through its unpredictable content. With its engaging format and viewer-voting mechanism, Bigg Boss has managed to amass a massive fanbase and remains one of the most-watched reality TV shows in India. Its ongoing success is a testament to its cultural influence, as it has aired over 1,800 episodes. Bigg Boss is available for streaming on JioCinema and Colors TV.

These iconic TV shows have not only shaped Indian television but also played a vital role in the cultural fabric of the nation. From mythological epics to family dramas, thrilling crime series to engaging reality shows, these programs have brought about significant changes in the way television content is consumed and enjoyed. As we celebrate World Television Day, we honor the legacy of these shows and the impact they’ve had on Indian entertainment, making television a diverse and dynamic medium.