1. Dekh Bhai Dekh (1993)

Dekh Bhai Dekh was one of the most loved shows of its time and the first Indian sitcom to appear on television. It introduced us to talented actors like Shekhar Suman, Urvashi Dholakia, Amar Upadhyay, and Vishal Singh. The show combined humor with relatable family situations, making it a favorite among viewers. Its memorable characters and witty dialogues still resonate with fans today.
2. Banegi Apni Baat (1993)

Banegi Apni Baat was a show that was truly ahead of its time. He gave us R. Introduced to notable talents like Madhavan, Surekha Sikri, and Irrfan Khan, who have since become industry darlings. His performance brought depth and charm to the series, which left a lasting impression on the audience.
3. Hip Hip Hurray (1998)

Hip Hip Hurray featured talented actors like Vishal Malhotra, Nilanjana Sharma, and Purab Kohli, making it a memorable coming-of-age show. Even today, it feels like a breath of fresh air, capturing the essence of youth and friendship. The series resonated with audiences for its relatable themes and engaging storytelling, leaving a lasting impression long after it ended.
4. Khana Khazana (1993)

This show was the first Indian cooking program many of us ever watched, marking the start of food reality television in our country. I can’t count how many times I watched Sanjeev Kapoor as a kid, eagerly craving the delicious dishes he prepared. His engaging style and easy-to-follow recipes inspired countless viewers to try cooking, making the show a beloved classic in Indian television history.
Did you know that Hansal Mehta directed this show? He’s the same talented filmmaker behind acclaimed projects like Scam 1992, Scoop, Aligarh, and Shahid. His work has consistently showcased his ability to tell compelling stories, and this show was an early example of his skill in creating engaging content for television.
5. Surabhi (1990)

You likely remember Surabhi, which filled us with awe as we learned fascinating facts about art and culture. It was truly an iconic show! And let’s not forget how much we adore Renuka Shahane for her charm and warmth as a host.
6. Saans (1998)

Saans stood out with its unique and progressive storyline, featuring remarkable performances by actors like Neena Gupta and Kanwaljit Singh. Neena Gupta starred in the show and wrote and directed it, making it even more memorable!
7. Tu Tu Main Main (1994)

Remember this iconic show? It brought slapstick comedy to life, making the mother and daughter-in-law trope famous. Starring Reema Lagoo and Supriya Pilgaonkar, it was directed by Sachin Pilgaonkar—Shriya Pilgaonkar’s parents! And guess what? The show is making a comeback!
8. Shaktimaan (1997)

Even if you didn’t watch it regularly, you remember Shaktimaan. It was a defining moment for the Indian superhero universe and a staple in most households.
9. Aahat (1995)

Aahat was from a time when horror went beyond just VFX. It truly made our skin crawl and terrified us as kids. Even today, I still get nightmares from those episodes!
10. Kasautii Zindagii Kay (2001)

Every 90s and 00s kid probably remembers watching this show, often with their moms. The original Anurag and Prerna were a couple we still root for even today!
Conclusion
These 10 Indian TV shows have stood the test of time, proving that great content never gets old. Whether it’s the iconic characters, memorable storylines, or the nostalgia they bring, these shows remain close to our hearts even after over 20 years. They are a reminder of the golden age of Indian television, where creativity and storytelling took center stage.
FAQs
Q1: Why do these old Indian TV shows still hold a special place in our hearts?
Ans: These shows have relatable characters, timeless storylines, and a sense of nostalgia. They evoke memories of simpler times, making them memorable for viewers of all ages.
Q2: Are any of these classic shows making a comeback?
Ans: Yes, some of these shows are returning. For example, “Tu Tu Main Main” is reportedly making a comeback, bringing with it the charm of its slapstick humor and beloved characters.
Q3: Who are some iconic actors who gained popularity through these shows?
Ans: Actors like Irrfan Khan, R. Madhavan, Neena Gupta, and Bhuvan Bam gained early fame through these shows and have since become household names in the entertainment industry.
Q4: Can I watch these shows online?
Ans: Many of these shows are available on streaming platforms like YouTube, SonyLIV, and Zee5, where you can relive the classic moments.
Q5: Why were these shows so popular in the 90s and early 2000s?
Ans: These shows resonated with the audience through authentic storytelling, relatable family dynamics, and strong performances. They were also a source of entertainment in an era before the internet and OTT platforms.
Q6: Which genres were most common in these classic Indian TV shows?
Ans: These shows spanned a variety of genres, including family dramas (Saans), comedies (Dekh Bhai Dekh), supernatural and horror (Aahat), and even superhero series (Shaktimaan). This diversity made them popular with different audiences.
Q7: How did these shows influence Indian television?
Ans: These classic shows laid the foundation for Indian TV storytelling, introducing relatable characters and family-centric plots and creating a format that influenced many following shows.
Q8: Were any of these shows groundbreaking for their time?
Ans: Yes, shows like Saans and Banegi Apni Baat were progressive, addressing complex topics like relationships, societal norms, and individual aspirations. They paved the way for more realistic and bold storytelling in Indian TV.
Q9: Why do many actors from these old TV shows become popular in films later?
Ans: Many actors like R. Madhavan and Irrfan Khan showcased their talent on TV before transitioning to films. Their TV performances helped them build strong fan bases, making them successful in Bollywood.
Q10: What makes these shows relevant even today?
Ans: The universal themes of love, friendship, family values, and personal struggles make these shows timeless. Their nostalgic appeal and simplicity resonate with audiences even decades later.