A Nostalgic Look at India’s Most Loved TV Shows: From Ramayan to Sarabhai vs Sarabhai

In today’s age of binge-watching and endless content, it’s easy to overlook the magic of an era when television was a shared experience — one episode a week, one living room, and a family gathered together. Long before streaming platforms took over, these Indian TV classics created a deep and lasting impact, not just on screens but in our homes and hearts.

Ramayan by Ramanand Sagar was more than a show — it was an event. Entire families paused their routines to watch it, treating it with the reverence of a religious ritual. Rooted in tradition and simplicity, it turned its cast into national icons and marked the beginning of appointment television in India.

Following close was Mahabharat, directed by B.R. Chopra and penned by Dr. Rahi Masoom Raza. It wove together emotion, ethics, and epic drama with powerful storytelling and unforgettable dialogue, setting a new standard for mythological series.

Malgudi Days, adapted from R.K. Narayan’s beloved stories, stood apart with its quiet charm. Set in a fictional South Indian town, it captured the simplicity of small-town life with honesty and warmth — no sensationalism, just moments that resonated.

For those seeking humor, Dekh Bhai Dekh offered light-hearted fun through the lives of the Diwan family. Its wit, relatable characters, and slice-of-life comedy made it a household favourite without ever needing to shout.

Meanwhile, Byomkesh Bakshi introduced viewers to a different kind of hero — a thinking man’s detective. Rajit Kapur’s calm and intelligent portrayal made the show a landmark in Indian mystery television, praised for its subtlety and cerebral storytelling.

With biting satire, Office Office tackled the everyday frustrations of dealing with red tape. Pankaj Kapur’s Mussaddilal became the face of the common man battling bureaucracy, delivering laughter and truth in equal measure.

Sarabhai vs Sarabhai brought a fresh wave of urbane comedy. It was refined yet relatable, with unforgettable characters like the high-society Maya and the endearingly middle-class Monisha. Its timeless humour still lives on in memes and re-runs.

Finally, there was Kaun Banega Crorepati — not a drama, but a game-changer. With Amitabh Bachchan as host, the quiz show redefined prime-time viewing. More than money, it offered hope, aspiration, and the thrill of possibility to ordinary Indians.

These shows were more than just content. They were rituals, memories, and emotions — watched not alone, but together. In a time of instant gratification, they remind us of the joy of anticipation, and the magic of storytelling that stays with us forever.