Indian television has evolved significantly over the years, with certain shows setting new standards for storytelling and audience engagement. These iconic series introduced innovative formats and genres that have left a lasting impact on the industry. From mythological epics and family dramas to crime thrillers and reality shows, they have shaped Indian pop culture. On World Television Day, we celebrate five groundbreaking TV shows that revolutionized Indian television, making it the diverse and dynamic medium we experience today.

Ramanand Sagar’s Ramayan – Mythology

Airing between 1987 and 1988 on DD National, Ramanand Sagar’s Ramayan became a cultural and global phenomenon. Based on Valmiki’s Ramayan and Tulsidas’ Ramcharitmanas, the epic mythological series narrated by Ashok Kumar captivated a staggering 82% viewership in India, with over 650 million global viewers as reported by various sources. Directed by Ramanand Sagar and featuring music by Ravindra Jain, Ramayan not only became the world’s most-watched television series but also cemented its place as a unifying force across audiences till date. Its influence is unparalleled, with its repeat telecasts across 20 channels in 17 countries further testifying to its enduring legacy. The show is currently streaming on Shemaroo TV.

Tarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah – Comedy

Premiering in 2008, Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah revolutionized Indian television by blending humor with social commentary. A creation of Asit Kumar Modi under Neela Telefilms, this SAB TV favorite is set in Mumbai’s Gokuldham Society, famously dubbed “Mini India.” The show thrives on its diverse cast, representing various Indian cultures, and its lead character, Jethalal Gada, whose antics bring endless laughs. Beyond comedy, it addresses everyday issues and fosters community values. Its family-friendly content and relatable storytelling have made it a timeless hit, redefining long-running TV success.

Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi – Drama

Premiering in 2000, Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi reshaped Indian television by pioneering the family soap opera genre. Co-produced by Ekta Kapoor and Shobha Kapoor under Balaji Telefilms, the show followed Tulsi Virani, played by Smriti Irani, an ideal daughter-in-law navigating complex family dynamics. Garnering record-breaking TRPs, it became Star Plus’s flagship show and dominated prime-time TV for six years, peaking at a 22.4 TRP in May 2001. It launched Ekta Kapoor into stardom and paved the way for other iconic serials, creating a blueprint for emotional storytelling that resonated with millions across India. The show is currently streaming on Hotstar

C.I.D – Crime/thriller

Debuting in 1998, CID redefined Indian television with its gripping police procedural format. Created by B.P. Singh and produced under Fireworks Production, the show became a cultural phenomenon, led by iconic characters like ACP Pradyuman (Shivaji Satam) and Sr. Inspectors Abhijeet (Aditya Srivastava) and Daya (Dayanand Shetty). CID captivated audiences with its unique storytelling and thrilling investigations. Running for over 20 years, it broke records, airing more than 1,500 episodes and amassing a dedicated fanbase. A cult classic, CID inspired numerous spin-offs, making crime-solving an integral part of Indian television’s entertainment narrative. The show is currently streaming on SonyLiv.

Bigg Boss – Reality Show

Since its debut in 2006, Bigg Boss has transformed Indian television by introducing the reality TV genre at an unprecedented scale. Based on the Dutch Big Brother format, the show, now airing its 18th season, features contestants living together in isolation, navigating alliances, conflicts, and weekly evictions decided by public votes. With a rotating roster of iconic hosts, including Salman Khan since Season 4, Bigg Boss has redefined audience engagement and entertainment. It has amassed a massive following, airing 1,864 episodes to date, while becoming a cultural phenomenon and a platform for celebrity comebacks and emerging talent. The show is currently streaming on JioCinema and ColorsTV