Indian TV shows have lost their charm with shape-shifting naagins and saas-bahu regressive dramas. But, there have been some really good shows and characters that made sure they rely on good storytelling, acting, and plot. Here are 14 TV shows that we wish could have lasted a bit longer, and we could have enjoyed watching them a little longer on the small screen.
1. Mahi Way
Unlike many regressive TV shows, this comedy-drama focused on body positivity and the harmful effects of body shaming much before it was a norm.
2. Star Bestsellers
Many of us remember this show because of its unique format. The show featured a separate story in each episode. Various writers and actors like Imtiaz Ali, Irrfan Khan, Tisca Chopra, Tigmanshu Dhulia, Anurag Kashyap, etc. worked on different episodes and gave us something to cheer for.
3. Love Story
Anurag Basu’s romantic drama – Love Story- was one of the most popular shows of its time. The show was unique as it wasn’t like the usual love story. Many of us still remember the iconic song, Teri Yaadein Woh Baatein.
4. Ek Packet Umeed
With well-defined characters and a captivating story, this women-centric show touched so many hearts and souls!
5. Choona Hai Aasmaan
In the midst of the rise of extremely regressive shows, Choona Hai Aasmaan was a breath of fresh air with its well-defined characters and a steady storyline.
6. Sumit Sambhal Lega
With an IMDB rating of 9.2, Sumit Sambhal Lega is one of our favorite sitcoms that ended too soon. With Namit Das, Manasi Parekh, Bharti Achrekar, and Satish Kaushik, this show was full of laughter! A seemingly reckless young man – Sumit, runs away from conflict & responsibilities, while his family keeps circling around.
7. Powder
Starring Pankaj Tripathi and Manish Choudhary in the lead roles, the show was based on the narcotics trade in Mumbai. The show is available on Netflix.
8. Everest
A.R. Rahman marked his debut as a TV music composer with this progressive and inspiring show. The show was entirely shot in Nepal and revolved around a young girl, who embarked on a difficult journey to fulfill her father’s wishes!
9. Siddhant
Do you know this legal drama was nominated for an Emmy? This legal drama turned out to be one of the most well-scripted shows on Indian television.
10. Rishta.com
Showcasing different kinds of modern-day relationships without judgments, this progressive show starred Shruti Seth and Kavi Shastri. The show is currently available on Netflix.
11. Seven
Modern-day adaption of Indian religious texts and mythology, Seven was one of the finest TV shows ever made!
12. Special Squad
The crime show, Special Squad was actually a character-driven drama. Did you know the same director later went on to make CID?
13. P.O.W. – Bandi Yuddh Ke
With the power-packed performances and amazing storyline, this show was really emotional and intriguing!
14. Khotey Sikkey
In the times, when the Indian regressive shows recorded 1000s of episodes, this crime drama ran for only 26 episodes. This crime drama was nothing like CID as it addressed the serious topics of drugs, power abuse by the rich, and much more.
Can we have these shows back on Indian television?
*All images are screenshots / posters of the respective show.