The massive uptick in unique shows on Over-The-Top platforms has forced India’s beloved TV serials to take a backseat. There is constant conversation on redundant plotlines and repetitive tracks when it comes to daily sitcoms and soap operas. But their appeal isn’t entirely lost—a considerable number of Indians have a soft spot for such content. There is comfort in flipping through channels while vying for the thrill of a dramatic soap opera, and our television industry has many-a-marvel to offer. Let’s take a look at the top ten options.
Taarak Mehta ka Ooltah Chashma
Streaming on SAB TV, Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashma is undoubtedly one of the most famous shows to be telecasted on Indian small screen. And its 14-year run time is proof. While Daya’s (Disha Vakani) eccentricities are surely being missed, loveable residents of the fictional Gokuldham Society continue to hold tremendous appeal among people, and can surely tickle their funny bone every once in a while.
Iss Pyaar Ko Kya Naam Doon
The unmissable story of a cold-hearted tycoon and a happy-go-lucky girl, Iss Pyaar Ko Kya Naam Doon is back on Star Bharat. This 2011 serial holds special relevance for Gen-Z, as most of them have grown up trying to catch a glimpse of Barun Sobti and Sanaya Irani’s electric bond as Arnav and Khushi. From an engaging plotline to heart-warming moments and interesting equations between characters, this show is packed with goodness. Alternatively, Iss Pyaar Ko Kya Naam Doon is present on Disney+ Hotstar for one to binge-watch.
Wagle Ki Duniya
Streaming on SAB TV, Wagle Ki Duniya is based on characters created by famous cartoonist RK Laxman, and a remake of Shah Rukh Khan’s 1988 show of the same name. It is a refreshing sitcom featuring the very talented Sumeet Raghavan as Rajesh Wagle, a courier company manager caught between the everyday shenanigans of his middle-class family that spans three generations. From scriptwriting to comic timing to vividly portraying issues familiar to the middle-income diaspora, the show surely stands out on its own, and will hopefully continue to dominate Indian screens with its sheer quality of content.
Bade Ache Lagte Hai 2
A sequel to Ram Kapoor and Sakshi Tanwar’s much-acclaimed show, Bade Ache Lagte Hai 2 has been grabbing eyeballs for its dramatic and romantic storyline on Sony TV. Nakkul Mehta and Disha Parmar have perfect chemistry as Ram and Priya, two polar opposites who come together as a compromise but later fall in love. The show has elements from both its previous season and Star Plus serial, Pyaar Ka Dard Hai Meetha Meetha Pyaara Pyaara, which boasts of the same lead pair. So far, the show has sustained its coherent plot, peppered with cute banter and romantic moments between protagonists.
Anupama
A household name, Anupama is one of the best shows Star Plus has ever made. Rupali Ganguly, who is recognisable as Monisha from Sarabhai VS Sarabhai, plays a middle-aged woman who tries to constantly go against societal expectations, to fulfil her dreams. Hers is an inspiring story for many mothers looking for courage to step out of their homes and give wings to their unfulfilled passions.
Ye Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai
Thirteen years and three generation later, Star Plus’ Ye Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai stresses on the idea of keeping one’s marriage and family above everything else. Despite its overstretched and sometimes dated plot, the show is a favourite among many, and sports the handsome Harshad Chopra as its lead male protagonist. Moreover, with its perfect aesthetic backdrop and stellar cast, the show promises to transport you into a world of family, love, conflict and emotional reconciliation—all wrapped under a grand celebration of every festivity possible.
Kaun Banega Crorepati
A hit since its inception in 2000 on Star Plus, the latest season of Kaun Banega Crorepati will go on-air around mid-August on Sony TV. Helmed by Amitabh Bachchan aka Big B, Kaun Banega Crorepati has been disseminating knowledge while entertaining and (quite literally) enriching generations of Indians. Be ready with your current affairs notes and trivia books before the next season hits screens as it is going to be a ‘mind’ blowing affair for sure.
Udaariyan
With its authentic Punjabi background and sinister villain stuck between ambition and obsession, Udaariyan has all the markings of a typical ‘masala’ show. Streaming on Colors TV, Udaariyan follows the story of Jasmine, a village belle with dreams of flying abroad. After she ditches her boyfriend Fateh on the altar, he ends up marrying her nicer, more docile sister Tejo. Out of jealousy, Jasmin starts plotting against the couple and chaos ensues. The plot feels heavy at times, but a talented cast gives a fresh outlook to the stereotypical female vamp angle.
Mere Sai, Shraddha aur Saburi
Now showing on Sony TV, this serial encapsulates the life of famed 19th century religious saint, Sai Baba from Shirdi, Maharashtra. Full of devotion and stories from his life, Mere Sai, Shraddha aur Saburi is a feel-good show about Sai Baba’s kindness, generosity and selflessness. Tushar Dalvi as Sai is the perfect mixture of composure and thoughtfulness in a show that is less of an appreciation of Sai, and more of a historical drama that introduces you to people and their faiths back in the day.
Naagin
A Colors TV flagship project of sorts, Naagin has its own fanbase despite the memes and jokes made at its expense. Six seasons later, it is one of those shows you can watch if you are in no mood to devote your intellect to deciphering a plot. Filled with snakes, lizards, spiders, and every possible reptile, this supernatural fiction show is a hit among Indian audiences, and regularly features Bollywood celebrities who mix up with the cast as part of film promotions.
(Edited by Zoya Bhatti)