India, a land of diverse cultures and traditions, has a rich history of storytelling. This love for narratives is evident in the country’s television landscape, where TV shows have become integral to daily life. Over the years, Indian television has evolved, offering a wide array of content that caters to different tastes.

Here’s a Look at the Most Watched TV Shows in India

1. Anupamaa

Introduction

Anupamaa is a popular Indian television drama series that debuted on July 13, 2020. It airs on Star Plus and has quickly become one of the most-watched shows on Indian TV. The series, produced by Rajan Shahi under the banner of Shahi Productions Pvt. Ltd., revolves around Anupamaa, a devoted housewife who reclaims her identity and self-worth after years of self-sacrifice for her family.

TV Channel

The show airs on Star Plus, one of India’s leading entertainment channels. Known for its diverse range of high-quality programming, Star Plus has provided a platform for Anupamaa to reach a wide audience.

Start and Viewership

Since its launch, Anupamaa has garnered impressive viewership numbers. It made a strong debut with high ratings and has consistently maintained a top position in the TRP charts, reflecting its widespread popularity among viewers.

Important Characters

• Anupamaa Shah (played by Rupali Ganguly): The central character of the show, Anupamaa is a loving wife and mother who evolves into a confident, independent woman.
• Vanraj Shah (played by Sudhanshu Pandey): Anupamaa’s husband, whose complex relationship with her drives much of the show’s drama.
• Pakhi Shah (played by Muskan Bamne): Anupamaa and Vanraj’s daughter, who plays a significant role in the family dynamics.
• Kavya Shah (played by Madalsa Sharma): Vanraj’s love interest, adding to the show’s dramatic tension.

Director and Producer

Anupamaa is directed by Romesh Kalra and produced by Rajan Shahi. Shahi’s production house, Shahi Productions Pvt. Ltd., is renowned for its successful TV shows, and Anupamaa is a testament to their ability to create engaging and relatable content.

2. Kundali Bhagya

Introduction

Kundali Bhagya is a popular Indian television drama that premiered on July 12, 2017. A spin-off of the successful series Kumkum Bhagya, it airs on Zee TV and continues the story of the Luthra family, focusing on the lives of two sisters and their interactions with the family.

TV Channel

The show is broadcast on Zee TV, a major Hindi-language entertainment channel known for its diverse programming and extensive reach, which has contributed to the show’s widespread popularity.

Start and Viewership

Since its debut, Kundali Bhagya has enjoyed strong viewership numbers. It quickly became a hit, consistently achieving high ratings and a prominent position in the TRP charts due to its engaging storyline and well-developed characters.

Important Characters

• Preeta Arora (played by Shraddha Arya): A central character known for her kind-hearted nature, who becomes deeply involved with the Luthra family.
• Karan Luthra (played by Dheeraj Dhoopar): The male lead, a successful businessman with a strong personality, whose relationship with Preeta is central to the plot.
• Shrishti Arora (played by Anjum Fakih): Preeta’s younger sister, whose lively and spirited nature adds depth to the storyline.
• Rishabh Luthra (played by Abhishek Kapur): Karan’s elder brother, a significant figure in the family whose actions influence the plot.

Director and Producer

The show is directed by Sameer Kulkarni and produced by Ekta Kapoor under Balaji Telefilms. Ekta Kapoor is a prominent figure in Indian television, and her involvement has been pivotal in the show’s success.

3. Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah

Introduction

Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah is a popular Indian sitcom that premiered on July 28, 2008. Set in the fictional Gokuldham Society, the show presents the daily lives and humorous incidents of its residents, each representing different regions and cultures of India. The series, known for its light-hearted comedy and social messages, has become a staple of Indian television.

TV Channel

The show airs on Sony SAB, a Hindi-language entertainment channel known for its diverse and family-friendly programming. Sony SAB has been instrumental in reaching a wide audience, contributing to the show’s enduring success.

Start and Viewership

Since its launch, Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah has achieved remarkable viewership numbers. It has consistently been among the top-rated shows, enjoying widespread popularity across age groups due to its relatable humor and engaging storytelling.

Important Characters

• Jethalal Champaklal Gada (played by Dilip Joshi): The central character, Jethalal is a businessman known for his humorous interactions with his family and neighbors.
• Daya Jethalal Gada (played by Disha Vakani): Jethalal’s wife, known for her cheerful disposition and unique style, adds a distinctive charm to the show.
• Taarak Mehta (played by Shailesh Lodha): The narrator of the show and Jethalal’s best friend, Taarak provides a humorous perspective on the events in Gokuldham Society.
• Popatlal Pandey (played by Ghanshyam Nayak): A single journalist with a humorous quest for marriage, Popatlal’s character brings an additional layer of comedy.

Director and Producer

The show is directed by Malav Rajda and produced by Asit Kumarr Modi under the banner of Neela Tele Films. Asit Kumarr Modi’s creative vision has been pivotal in shaping the show’s success, making it one of the longest-running and most beloved sitcoms on Indian television.

4. Bigg Boss

Introduction

Bigg Boss is a renowned Indian reality television show that premiered on October 3, 2006. Based on the international Big Brother format, the show features celebrities and commoners living together in a house under constant surveillance. The contestants are cut off from the outside world and compete in various tasks, with evictions happening weekly based on housemates’ votes and audience participation. The show’s format combines drama, entertainment, and strategy, making it a significant part of Indian reality TV.

TV Channel

The show airs on Colors TV, a major Hindi-language entertainment channel known for its diverse range of programming. Colors TV has played a crucial role in broadcasting Bigg Boss, helping it reach a broad audience across India.

Start and Viewership

Since its debut, Bigg Boss has consistently attracted high viewership numbers. Each season generates significant buzz and maintains strong ratings, thanks to its engaging format and the drama that unfolds within the house. The show’s popularity has made it one of the leading reality TV shows in India.

Important Characters

While Bigg Boss features a rotating cast of contestants each season, the key figures in the show typically include:

• Host: The host of Bigg Boss plays a crucial role in guiding the show, interacting with contestants, and presenting weekly evictions. Notable hosts have included Salman Khan, who has been associated with the show for several seasons and is known for his charismatic and engaging style.
• Contestants: Each season features a mix of celebrities and common people who bring their unique personalities and stories into the house. The dynamics between contestants, their strategies, and interactions drive the show’s drama and entertainment.

Director and Producer

Bigg Boss is produced by Endemol Shine India and directed by various directors across different seasons. The show is adapted from the international Big Brother format, with the Indian version being tailored to suit local tastes and cultural nuances.

5. Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai

Introduction

Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai is a highly popular Indian television drama that premiered on January 12, 2009. Created by Rajan Shahi, the show initially focused on the love story of Naitik and Akshara and has since evolved to encompass multiple generations of the Goenka and Maheshwari families. Known for its engaging family drama and portrayal of traditional values, the show has become a significant part of Indian TV history.

TV Channel

The series airs on Star Plus, a leading Hindi-language entertainment channel known for its diverse and high-quality programming. Star Plus has been instrumental in broadcasting Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai, contributing to its widespread appeal and success.

Start and Viewership

Since its launch, Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai has achieved impressive viewership numbers. The show has maintained high ratings throughout its run, thanks to its strong storytelling, relatable characters, and the emotional depth of its narrative.

Important Characters

• Akshara Singhania (played by Hina Khan): Initially the female lead, Akshara is known for her dedication to family values and her evolving role over the years.
• Naitik Singhania (played by Karan Mehra): The male lead, Naitik’s character is central to the early plot, highlighting his love and support for Akshara and his role as a husband and father.
• Naira Goenka (played by Shivangi Joshi): The daughter of Naitik and Akshara, Naira becomes a key character as the show progresses, focusing on her own journey and relationships.
• Kartik Goenka (played by Mohsin Khan): Naira’s love interest and later husband, Kartik’s character brings new dimensions to the show’s evolving storyline.

Director and Producer

Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai is directed by various directors over its run, including Rajan Shahi, who is also the producer. Rajan Shahi’s production house, Shahi Productions Pvt. Ltd., is renowned for its successful television shows, and his vision has been instrumental in shaping the show’s long-term success.

6. Indian Idol

Introduction

Indian Idol is a highly popular singing reality television show that first premiered on October 1, 2004. Modeled after the international Idol format, the show provides a platform for aspiring singers across India to showcase their talent. Contestants compete in various rounds to impress the judges and win the coveted title, with the show becoming a significant event in the Indian entertainment industry.

TV Channel

The show airs on Sony Entertainment Television (SET), a major Hindi-language channel known for its diverse programming. Sony TV has been crucial in broadcasting Indian Idol, contributing to its extensive reach and popularity.

Start and Viewership

Since its debut, Indian Idol has achieved remarkable viewership figures. It has consistently been one of the top-rated reality shows in India, attracting large audiences due to its engaging format, talented contestants, and the excitement of the competition.

Important Characters

• Contestants: Each season features a diverse group of contestants from various regions of India, each bringing their unique singing styles and backgrounds. The contestants are the central figures, with their performances and journeys forming the core of the show.
• Judges: The panel of judges plays a crucial role in evaluating performances and guiding contestants. Notable judges in various seasons have included renowned singers like Sonu Nigam, Anu Malik, and Neha Kakkar, among others.
• Host: The host of Indian Idol engages with the contestants and audience, adding to the show’s entertainment value. Prominent hosts have included Aman Verma, Hussain Kuwajerwala, and Maniesh Paul.

Director and Producer

Indian Idol is produced by Fremantle India, with various directors overseeing different seasons. Fremantle India is known for adapting successful international formats for the Indian audience, and their expertise has been integral to the show’s success.

7. Naagin

Introduction

Naagin is a popular Indian supernatural drama series that premiered on November 1, 2015. The show, created by Ekta Kapoor, explores the mythical world of shape-shifting serpents seeking revenge and justice. Combining elements of fantasy, romance, and drama, Naagin has captivated audiences with its unique storyline and visual appeal.

TV Channel

The series airs on Colors TV, a leading Hindi-language entertainment channel known for its diverse and engaging programming. Colors TV has been instrumental in bringing Naagin to a wide audience, contributing to its significant popularity.

Start and Viewership

Since its launch, Naagin has achieved impressive viewership figures, becoming one of the most-watched supernatural dramas on Indian television. The show’s blend of fantasy and drama, along with its compelling narrative, has consistently maintained high ratings and viewer interest.

Important Characters

• Shivanya (played by Mouni Roy): The central character in the first season, Shivanya is a shape-shifting serpent seeking revenge for her family’s murder.
• Shivangi (played by Mouni Roy in the second season): A key character in the second season, Shivangi continues the legacy of seeking vengeance while navigating her own personal challenges.
• Naagrani (Rudra) (played by Anita Hassanandani): Introduced in later seasons, Rudra is a prominent character with a significant role in the supernatural elements of the story.
• Various Male Leads: Each season features male leads who play important roles in the romantic and dramatic arcs of the show, including characters such as Ritik (played by Arjun Bijlani) and Rocky (played by Karanvir Bohra).

Director and Producer

Naagin is produced by Ekta Kapoor under her production house, Balaji Telefilms. The series is directed by various directors over its seasons, including Santram Varma and Chandni Choudhury. Ekta Kapoor’s creative vision and production expertise have been crucial to the show’s success and its ability to engage viewers with its unique blend of fantasy and drama.

8. The Kapil Sharma Show

Introduction

The Kapil Sharma Show is a highly popular Indian comedy talk show that premiered on April 23, 2016. Hosted by the renowned comedian Kapil Sharma, the show combines stand-up comedy, skits, and celebrity interviews, providing a platform for humor and entertainment. Known for its lively and engaging format, the show has become a staple of weekend television for audiences across India.

TV Channel

The show airs on Sony Entertainment Television (SET), a major Hindi-language channel known for its diverse programming. Sony TV has been instrumental in broadcasting The Kapil Sharma Show, contributing to its extensive reach and popularity.

Start and Viewership

Since its debut, The Kapil Sharma Show has enjoyed impressive viewership numbers. The show consistently achieves high ratings, driven by its entertaining content, relatable humor, and the charismatic presence of Kapil Sharma. Its success is reflected in its strong performance on the TRP charts and its widespread appeal.

Important Characters

• Kapil Sharma: The host and central figure of the show, Kapil Sharma is known for his sharp wit, humor, and ability to engage both guests and the audience.
• Bharti Singh: A prominent comedian and performer on the show, Bharti Singh is known for her comic timing and entertaining skits.
• Kiku Sharda: Another key comedian, Kiku Sharda is known for his diverse characters and humorous contributions to the show.
• Chandan Prabhakar: A comedian and actor, Chandan Prabhakar plays various roles and participates in the show’s comedic segments.
• Sumona Chakravarti: An actress and comedian, Sumona Chakravarti is known for her roles in skits and interactions with guests.

Director and Producer

The Kapil Sharma Show is produced by Kapil Sharma under his banner, K9 Productions, in association with Sony Entertainment Television. The show is directed by various directors, including Vipul D Shah and other seasoned professionals. Kapil Sharma’s vision and production expertise have been crucial to the show’s success, ensuring a blend of humor, celebrity interviews, and engaging content.