Television has been a beloved part of Indian households for decades. Since its introduction on the 15th of September 1959, it has been a source of joy, laughter, and drama for generations. From the early days of a few national channels to the current age of streaming platforms, Indian television has come a long way.
To pay tribute to the shows that have become a cherished part of our lives, we’re here to take a trip down memory lane and compile a list of the 25 best Indian television shows of all time. These shows have not just entertained us but also touched our hearts in countless ways.
List of 25 Best Indian Television Shows
List of 25 Best Indian Television Shows
In this section, we have compiled all the hit television shows with their details. So, dig down to find out why these best TV shows became hit shows in India.
1. Mahabharat
Genre: Epic, Drama, Mythology
Runtime: (1988 to 1990)
Direction: Ravi Chopra
The list cannot start without the television version of Mahabharat which had 94 episodes. Yes! The magnificent production from the house of BR Chopra was an esteemed project in the 80s that created memories. The iconic scenes and primitive visual graphics made us stick to our TV sets.
2. Ramayan
Genre: Epic, Drama, Mythology
Runtime: (1987 to 1988)
Direction: Moti Sagar
Another mythological epic transformed into a remarkable television show, Ramayan is obviously the second addition to this list. This epic has been televised multiple times but the charm was upheld by the first version. It had one season and 78 episodes. This show was so epic that the popular demand brought it thrice on TV after its end.
3. Malgudi Days
Genre: Fiction, Short story, Drama
Runtime: (1986 to 2006)
Direction: Shankar Nag (Seasons 1 to 3) and Kavitha Lankesh (Season 4)
Malgudi Days is the perfect depiction what R. K. Narayan wanted us to see in his book. The fictional world perfectly displayed the emotions of human beings. The simple yet profound tales narrated by the episodes is the outcome of excellent storytelling and direction. It had stories about family, life, school, cricket, and holidays from the eyes of a smack kid named Swami.
4. Sarabhai Vs. Sarabhai
Genre: Sitcom, Comedy
Runtime: (2004 to 2006)
Direction: Deven Bhojani
‘Sarabhai vs Sarabhai’ is a popular Indian sitcom that aired from 2004 to 2006. The show revolves around the upper-class Sarabhai family living in Mumbai. The series humorously explores the generation gap and contrasting personalities within the family. Maya Sarabhai is the matriarch of the family, who was the perfect example of sophistication and always clashing with her middle-class daughter-in-law, Monisha. The sitcom cleverly combines wit, satire, and family dynamics, making it a favorite among viewers.
5. Kaun Banega Crorepati
Genre: Game show
Runtime: (2000 onwards)
Direction: Arun Sheshkumar
‘Kaun Banega Crorepati’ is inspired by the all-time American favorite ‘Who Wants to be a Millionaire?’ You will be surprised to know that Amitabh Bachchan was suffering from downtime in terms of politics and fandom. His political career was not working well. His films did not work out well at the box office. It was this show that reestablished this superstar on his throne again. It started on 3rd June 2000 and is in its 15th season now.
6. Dekh Bhai Dekh
Genre: Sitcom
Runtime: (1993 to 1994)
Direction: Aanand Mahendroo
Another marvellous sitcom, Dekh Bhai Dekh is one of the best Indian television shows of all time. The Indian audience could not keep itself due to its comic delivery, hilarious events, and relatable circumstances of a joint family depicted in this serial. People got glued to their TVs when the Diwan family was on air. Unfortunately, it had only one season with 65 episodes.
7. Office Office
Genre: Satire, Sitcom
Runtime: (2000 – )
Direction: Rajiv Mehra
Office Office is a contemporary satire that depicts the inefficiency of the government offices back then. It is one of the most-watched Indian TV shows of all time. The comic timing, parody and satire of this production are unmatchable. The cast is studded with great actors and has been a favorite for the Indians to date. This serial perfectly described how corruption has invaded the Sarkari offices.
8. CID
Genre: Drama, Crime, Thriller, Suspense, Action, Fiction
Runtime: (1998 – )
Direction: B. P. Singh
As the name suggests, the serial CID is all about solving crime. It is one of the longest-running classic Indian serials. It has completed more than 1500 episodes since 21 January 1998. This show is still surprising the Indian audience with its unusual crime stories and investigations. This serial manages to keep the audience stuck to their seats with its gripping stories. All the cases are led and solved by ACP Pradyuman and his team.
9. Alif Laila
Genre: Drama, Adventure, Fiction, Action
Runtime: (1993 – 1997)
Direction: Anand Sagar, Prem Sagar
Alif Laila, one of the most favorite Indian TV shows, was based on the stories of Arabian Nights. The show masterfully weaves together captivating stories from One Thousand and One Nights. These tales, full of magic, fantasy, and moral lessons, bring to life characters like Aladdin, Ali Baba, and Sinbad the Sailor. The production, with its grand sets and colorful costumes, transported viewers into a world of enchantment. ‘Alif Laila’ remains cherished for its storytelling brilliance, cultural richness, and the timeless appeal of its mythical tales.
10. Shaktimaan
Genre: Fiction, Action, Superhero
Runtime: (1997 – 2005)
Direction: Dinker Jani
‘Shaktimaan,’ an iconic Indian superhero television series that aired in the late ’90s, revolves around Pandit Gangadhar Vidyadhar Mayadhar Omkarnath Shastri, who transforms into the superhero Shaktimaan. Played by Mukesh Khanna, Shaktimaan is the first Indian superhero. He fights against evil forces led by Kilvish. The show not only entertained but also instilled moral values among viewers. Shaktimaan’s superpowers, morals, and the catchphrase ‘Sorry Shaktimaan’ became part of pop culture. The series achieved immense popularity, making Shaktimaan a symbol of justice and inspiring a generation of fans. It remains a nostalgic favorite, remembered for its unique blend of entertainment and moral teachings.
List of 15 Best Indian TV shows (Honorary Mentions)
Apart from these ten all-time favorite Indian TV shows, there are many gems that need to be mentioned. Here is a list of these marvelous creations along with their runtime, direction, and genre.
11. Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi
12. Meri Awaz Suno
13. Indian Idol
14. Hum Log
15. Byomkesh Bakshi
16. Shri Krishna
17. Chandrakanta
18. Taarak Meha Ka Ooltah Chashmah
19. Surabhi
20. Chanakya
21. Khichdi
22. Hum Paanch
23. Tu Tu Main Main
24. Pradhanmantri
25. Shanti
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Wrapping up
Well, this list might be a debatable topic due to the inclusion of selective TV serials considered as the best in Indian television. There are hundreds of gems that were not mentioned on this list. These 25 best TV shows of all time are based upon storyline, popularity, and uniqueness. Find your favorite genre and start watching these marvellous TV serials and shows to understand the glory of Indian Television.
Best Indian Television Shows of All Time-FAQs
Which are the best Indian TV shows of all time?
Mahabharat and Ramayan were the most watched television show in India of all time. Apart from these epic mythological shows, the top ones are:
- Malgudi Days
- Sarabhai Vs. Sarabhai
- Kaun Banega Crorepati
- Dekh Bhai Dekh
- Office Office
- CID
- Alif Laila
- Shaktimaan
Which is the best TV show in India in terms of TRP?
The highest TRP rating goes to Naagin in 2021 with a score of approximately 24.3.
Which show has the TRP at present?
Anupamaa holds the highest TRP at present in the Indian television serial segment.
What are the trending TV serials in India?
The trending TV shows in India are:
- CID
- Anupamaa
- Bigg Boss
- Naagin
- Indian Idol
- Kumkum Bhagya
- India’s Got Talent
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