TV's reign: A legacy of creators and actors

Indian television has not only transformed the entertainment landscape over the past few decades, but has also served as the first platform for countless talents who have made the journey from the small screen to the big screen. It's a story woven with dreams, hard work, and creativity. Producer-directors like Ekta Kapoor, Rajan Shahi, and Sanjay-Binaiferr Kohli have not only captured the hearts of audiences through their serials but have also provided opportunities to stars who have later made their mark in Bollywood, OTT platforms, and global cinema.

Indian Television – A Cultural Revolution

Indian television began to take root in the 1980s and 1990s, when Doordarshan serials like "Hum Log," "Buniyaad," and "Ramayana" kept viewers glued to their TV sets. However, in the 2000s, with the rise of private channels, television took on a new dimension. During this era, producers like Ekta Kapoor, Rajan Shahi, and Sanjay-Binaifer Kohli presented stories that resonated with Indian families through emotions, social issues, and humor. These serials not only entertained but also delivered social messages and provided a platform for many talented actors.

This era of television was a cultural revolution. It was a time when "Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi" broke TRP records, "Anupamaa" gave women empowerment a new dimension, and "Bhabhi Ji Ghar Par Hain" brought laughter to the audience with its humor. These shows not only captivated audiences but also gave recognition to stars like Smriti Irani, Rupali Ganguly, Shah Rukh Khan, and Sushant Singh Rajput. This article celebrates how television provided a strong foundation on which these stars built their careers.

Ekta Kapoor – The Queen of TV

Ekta Kapoor epitomized a cultural revolution by giving a new face to Indian television. Under the banner of her production house, Balaji Telefilms, serials like "Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi", "Kahaani Ghar Ghar Kii", "Kasautii Zindagii Kay", "Pavitra Rishta", "Kumkum Bhagya" and "Naagin" brought the stories of Indian families to life on screen. These shows not only emotionally connected the audience but also sensitively highlighted social issues such as the complexities of family relationships, women empowerment, and the depths of love.

The character of Tulsi (Smriti Irani) in "Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi" symbolized the balance between traditions and modernity in Indian culture. The show made Smriti Irani famous as "Tulsi" in every household, and she later proved her talent in politics and cinema. Similarly, "Naagin" gave Mouni Roy a new identity with its unique blend of fantasy and drama. The show's success provided Mouni with a platform to establish herself in Bollywood with films like "Gold" (2018) and "Brahmastra Part 1" (2022).

Ekta Kapoor's forte lies in the variety of her stories and her ability to connect with audiences. "Pavitra Rishta" gave birth to stars like Sushant Singh Rajput and Ankita Lokhande, who brought to life the emotions of love and family through the characters of Manav and Archana. Sushant later showcased his acting prowess in films like "Kai Po Che" (2013), "MS Dhoni - The Untold Story" (2016), and "Chhichhore" (2019). "Kasautii Zindagii Kay" explored the depths of love through characters like Prerna and Anurag, making Shweta Tiwari and Cezanne Khan stars.

Ekta has made her mark not only on television but also on cinema and digital platforms. Her films such as "The Dirty Picture" (2011), "Once Upon a Time in Mumbai" (2010), "Shootout at Lokhandwala" (2007), "Ragini MMS" (2011), and "Udta Punjab" (2016) have not only achieved box office success but also garnered praise for their bold and realistic stories. Her digital platform, "Alt Balaji," has attracted a new generation of audiences with web series like "Gandi Baat," "Broken But Beautiful," and "Lock Up." Ekta's achievements have earned her prestigious honors such as the Padma Shri in 2018 and the International Emmy Director's Award in 2020, making her the "Queen" of Indian television.

Rajan Shahi - Platform for Social Change

Rajan Shahi, through his shows, transformed television into a platform for social change. His shows "Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai," "Anupamaa," and "Sapna Babul Ka... Bidaai" touched the deepest layers of Indian society. These shows sensitively portrayed women's empowerment, family values, and social issues, becoming a source of inspiration for viewers.

"Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai" gave recognition to stars like Hina Khan (Akshara) and Karan Mehra (Naitik). The show so beautifully portrayed the story of family relationships and love that it remained a favorite with audiences for over 16 years. Hina Khan later showcased her versatility in web series like "Khubsoorat" (2014) and "Damaged." Subsequent seasons featured Shivangi Joshi and Mohsin Khan in lead roles. Audiences loved their roles. Currently, Adrija Roy and Rohit Purohit have captivated audiences with their stellar performances, maintaining the show's popularity with their presence.

"Anupamaa" established Rupali Ganguly as an actress who became a symbol of women's empowerment. Anupamaa's character is that of a woman who does everything for her family, but also prioritizes her self-respect and dreams. The show not only dominated the TRP charts, but also taught viewers that age and circumstances cannot be a barrier to achieving their dreams. Rupali's success reflects the power of television, which provides actors with a strong platform to showcase their talent.

Additionally, "Sapna Babul Ka... Bidaai" made Sara Khan and Parul Chauhan household names, and it sensitively addressed social issues like racism. Rajan Shahi's shows proved that television is not just a source of entertainment, but a powerful platform for social awareness and change.

Sanjay and Binaifer Kohli - The magic of comedy

Sanjay and Binaifer Kohli redefined comedy on Indian television. Their shows "Bhabiji Ghar Par Hain!" and "Happu Ki Ultan Paltan" provided audiences with a wealth of laughter. These shows made actors like Shubhangi Atre (Angoori Bhabhi), Aasif Sheikh (Vibhuti Narayan Mishra), and Saumya Tandon (Anita Bhabhi) comedy stars. These characters created such a strong following among audiences that even today, people recognize them by their character names rather than their real names.

"Bhabi Ji Ghar Par Hain" presented a humorous portrayal of the lives of the Indian middle class. Angoori Bhabhi's innocence and Vibhuti's mischief not only made the audience laugh but also won their hearts. The show is popular for its unique comedy and witty dialogues. "Happu Ki Ultan Paltan" introduced a new style of humor through characters like Happu Singh (Yogesh Tripathi). Sanjay and Binaifer, through their shows, proved that humor can be a powerful medium, relieving viewers of stress and connecting them to their everyday lives. Their production company, Edit II Productions, recently expanded its creative horizons with shows like "Mayavi Maling" and "Jijaji Chhat Per Hain," which further strengthen their comedic and storytelling skills.

From TV to Bollywood – A golden journey of dreams

Indian television not only revolutionized the world of entertainment, but also served as the first platform for stars who, through the brilliance of the small screen, reached the heights of Bollywood. The small screen is not just a medium for stories and characters, but also a golden avenue for nurturing talent and shaping them into stardom. From Shah Rukh Khan to Avneet Kaur, many stars have honed their talents on the television stage and then carved their own unique niches in the world of cinema. 

Shahrukh Khan – The King of Bollywood from the small screen

Shah Rukh Khan, now known as Bollywood's "King Khan," began his career in television. His role as Lieutenant Abhimanyu Rai in "Fauji" in 1988 brought him to the attention of audiences. His performances in serials like "Circus" and "Dil Dariya" subsequently gained him attention. Following his television success, Shah Rukh made his Bollywood debut in 1992 with the film "Deewana." The film's success made him an overnight star. Subsequent films like "Baazigar" (1993), "Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge" (1995), "Kuch Kuch Hota Hai" (1998), "Devdas" (2002), "Chak De India" (2007), "Swades," "Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham," "My Name Is Khan," "Pathan," and "Jawaan" (2023) established him as the king of Hindi cinema. Shah Rukh Khan's journey demonstrates how television laid the foundation for his career, upon which he built an empire of success through hard work and talent. His children, Aryan and Suhana Khan, are now following in his footsteps. 

Irrfan Khan – From TV to World Cinema

Irrfan Khan, whose acting made an indelible mark on Indian and world cinema, also started out on television. His performances in serials like "Bharat Ki Khoj," "Saara Jahan Hamara," "Chanakya," "Banegi Apni Baat," and "Chandrakanta" highlighted his talent. Although he initially played small roles in films, television gave him the recognition he needed, which later brought his talent to the world's attention in films like "Maqbool" (2003), "The Namesake" (2006), "Life of Pi" (2012), "Paan Singh Tomar" (2012), and "Hindi Medium" (2017). Irrfan's journey proves that television not only gave him a platform to act but also provided him with the opportunity to hone his skills.

Pankaj Kapur – From TV's Office to Cinema's Master

Pankaj Kapur made audiences laugh with his role as Mussaddilal in "Office Office" and left a lasting impression on television. The show made him a household name. Pankaj also starred in films like "Gandhi" (1982), "Jaane Bhi Do Yaaron" (1983), "Khandhar" (1984), "Khamosh" (1985), "Maqbool" (2003), and "Dharam" (2007). His versatility made him one of the most respected actors in Hindi cinema. "Office Office" showcased his comedic talent, which earned him more opportunities in films.

R. Madhavan - Romantic Hero through TV

R. Madhavan won the hearts of television audiences with his performances in serials like "Sea Hawks," "Banegi Apni Baat," and "Ghar Jamai." His simplicity and depth of acting soon led him to films. In 2001, "Rehnaa Hai Terre Dil Mein" established him as a romantic hero in Bollywood. Subsequently, his versatility in films like "3 Idiots" (2009), "Tanu Weds Manu" (2011), "Vikram Vedha" (2017), "Rocketry - The Nambi Effect" (2022), and "Shaitan" endeared him to audiences and critics alike. Madhavan's journey demonstrates the power of the television platform, where he gave wings to his dreams.

Vidya Balan – From Hum Paanch to Parineeta

Vidya Balan made her television debut in 1995 with the role of Radhika in "Hum Paanch." The show's popularity endeared her to audiences. Her entry into Bollywood with "Parineeta" in 2005 made her an instant star. Subsequent films like "Lage Raho Munnabhai" (2006), "Kahaani" (2012), "Tumhari Sulu" (2017), "Bhool Bhulaiyaa," "Shakuntala Devi" (2020), and "Dirty Picture" further validated her acting prowess. Vidya's journey demonstrates that television provided a strong foundation for her career, upon which she built her talent.

Ayushmann Khurrana – From Reality Show to National Award

Ayushmann Khurrana participated in the reality show "Popstars" in 2002 and then made headlines by winning "Roadies 2." After working as a radio jockey, he made his Bollywood debut in 2012 with "Vicky Donor." The film's success made him an overnight star. Films like "Dum Laga Ke Haisha" (2015), "Badhaai Ho" (2018), "Article 15" (2019), and "Bala" (2019) made him a National Award winner. Ayushmann's journey began with television reality shows and reached the heights of cinema.

Mrunal Thakur – From TV to the glamour of cinema

Mrunal Thakur made her television debut in 2012 with "Mujhse Kuch Kehti... Ye Khamoshiyan." She then entered cinema in 2014 with the Marathi film "Hello Nandan." Her first Hindi film, "Love Sonia" (2018), showcased her talent. Her performances in "Super 30" (2019), "Batla House" (2019), "Jersey" (2022), and "Made in Heaven 2" (2023) earned her acclaim. She recently appeared in "Son of Sardaar 2." "Tum Ho Toh" and "Dakait - A Love Story" are keeping audiences waiting. Mrunal's journey from television to cinema is a testament to her hard work and talent.

Sushant Singh Rajput – From Pavitra Rishta to the heights of Bollywood

Sushant Singh Rajput won the hearts of audiences with his portrayal of Manav in "Kis Desh Mein Hai Mera Dil" and "Pavitra Rishta." His entry into Bollywood with "Kai Po Che" in 2013 made him an instant star. His performances in films like "Shuddh Desi Romance" (2013), "M.S. Dhoni - The Untold Story" (2016), "Kedarnath" (2018), and "Chhichhore" (2019) made him a heartthrob in millions. Sushant's journey highlights the power of television, which gave him the opportunity to shine in the world of cinema.

Yami Gautam – From the simplicity of TV to the glamour of cinema

Yami Gautam began her career in 2008 with "Chand Ke Paar Chalo." Subsequently, she gained attention with appearances in shows like "Rajkumar Aryan," "CID," "Yeh Pyar Na Hoga Kam," and "Kitchen Champion." Her entry into Bollywood with "Vicky Donor" in 2012 made her a star. Films like "Uri: The Surgical Strike" (2019), "Bala" (2019), "OMG 2" (2023), and "Article 370" (2024) have proven her versatility. Her upcoming film "Dhoom Dham" (2025) is generating excitement among audiences. Yami's journey from television to cinema is a testament to her hard work.

Mouni Roy – From Naagin to Bollywood's Glitter

Mouni Roy began her career with "Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi." Subsequently, shows like "Kaho Na Yaar Hai," "Kasturi," "Devon Ke Dev Mahadev," and "Naagin" made her a household name. The immense success of "Naagin" made her a star. Her entry into Bollywood with "Gold" in 2018 provided a new platform for her talent. Her performances in "Made in China" (2019) and "Brahmastra" (2022) brought her further recognition. This is Mouni's journey from the world of TV to the glitz of Bollywood.

Ankita Lokhande – From Sacred Relationships to Cinema

Ankita Lokhande won the hearts of audiences with her role as Archana in "Pavitra Rishta." The show made her a popular TV actress. Her entry into Bollywood in 2019 with "Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi" gave her a new platform to showcase her talent. Her performances in "Baaghi 3" (2020) and "Swatantrya Veer Savarkar" (2024) brought her further recognition. Ankita's journey from TV popularity to the world of cinema reflects her hard work.

Prachi Desai – Kasam Se Bollywood Tak

Prachi Desai won the hearts of audiences with her role as Bani in "Kasamh Se." The show's success made her an overnight star. Her entry into Bollywood with "Rock On" in 2008 gave her a new identity. Films like "Once Upon a Time in Mumbai" (2010), "Teri Meri Kahaani" (2012), "Bol Bachchan" (2012), "Silence... Can You Hear It?" (2021), and "Silence 2" (2024) further validated her talent. Prachi's journey is a story from the simplicity of TV to the brilliance of cinema.

Pratibha Ranta – From Qurbaan Hua to Missing Ladies

Pratibha Ranta made her television debut with "Qurbaan Hua." Following this, "Lapata Ladies" in 2023 established her as a rising star in Bollywood. Her performance in Sanjay Leela Bhansali's web series "Heeramandi" (2024) brought her further recognition. Audiences are awaiting her upcoming film, the name of which is yet to be revealed. This journey showcases her talent, from television to cinema and digital platforms.

Read also: Rajani 2.0: Doordarshan to Revive Indian TV’s Golden Era from November 3

Riddhi Dogra – From TV to youth

Riddhi Dogra entered television in 2007 with "Jhoom Jiya Re." Shows like "Maryada - Lekin Kab Tak?" brought her recognition. She then starred in films like "Lyakadbagha," "Jawaan," and "Tiger 3" in 2023, alongside Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan. Her performance in "The Sabarmati Report" in 2024, alongside Vikrant Massey, earned her further acclaim. Riddhi's journey demonstrates her versatility, from television to cinema to web series.

Rajeev Khandelwal – From Kahi To Hoga to Cinema

Rajeev Khandelwal achieved overnight fame with his role as Sujal in "Kahi To Hoga." His performances in shows like "Left Right Left" and "Time Bomb" brought him further recognition. His entry into Bollywood with "Aamir" in 2008 provided a new platform for his talent. His performances in "Shaitan" (2011), "Table No. 21" (2013), and the web series "Naxalbari" (2020) established him as a versatile actor. This journey of Rajeev's journey from TV popularity to the world of cinema reflects his hard work.

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Avneet Kaur – From Aladdin to Cinema

Avneet Kaur started her career on the reality show "Dance India Dance Little Masters" and then became a household name with her role as Yasmin in "Aladdin - Naam Toh Suna Hoga." In 2019, she gained attention with a small role in "Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota." In 2023, her lead role opposite Nawazuddin Siddiqui in "Tiku Weds Sheru" established her in Bollywood. Recently, she captured the attention of audiences with her performance in "Love in Vietnam." Avneet's journey from television and reality shows to cinema showcases her talent.

The first step to the stars

Indian television not only provided these stars with a platform but also an opportunity to hone their talents. Long-term roles on TV shows allowed actors to test their acting skills, connect with audiences, and hone their craft. Television's discipline, long shooting schedules, and immediate audience feedback prepared these stars for the challenges of cinema.

"Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi" explored the complexities of family relationships, "Anupamaa" offered a new dimension to women's empowerment, and "Bhabhi Ji Ghar Par Hain" captivated audiences with its humor. These shows gave stars recognition and the confidence to enter cinema. The process of bringing characters to life on TV gave these actors the experience that laid the foundation for their success in cinema.

Read also: Rajani 2.0: Doordarshan to Revive Indian TV’s Golden Era from November 3

Challenges and opportunities of television

The television platform is also a double-edged sword for actors. While it connects them with audiences, playing the same character for extended periods also carries the risk of being typecast. Nevertheless, stars like Shah Rukh Khan, Sushant Singh Rajput, and Mouni Roy have turned this challenge into an opportunity. They have leveraged the popularity of their TV characters to portray new and diverse characters in cinema.

The role of producers was also crucial in this journey. Ekta Kapoor blended fantasy, drama, and social issues in her stories, which kept audiences captivated. Rajan Shahi focused on women's empowerment and social change, while Sanjay and Binaifer Kohli entertained audiences with comedy. These producers not only created stories but also gave stars the platform to showcase their talents.

Read also:Bhabiji Ghar Par Hain Completes 10 Years, Binaifer Kohli Shares Success Secrets

TV legacy

Television not only gave birth to stars but also served as a platform for social change. "Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi" sparked discussions about the role of women in the family, "Anupamaa" promoted women's empowerment, and "Bhabhi Ji Ghar Par Hain" took a light-hearted dig at social stereotypes through humor. These shows not only entertained viewers but also inspired them to reflect on social issues.

Indian television is a laboratory where talent thrives and dreams take flight. Producers like Ekta Kapoor, Rajan Shahi, and Sanjay-Binaifer Kohli have not only set new standards in entertainment but also provided a platform for stars who shine in the world of cinema today.

From Shah Rukh Khan to Mrunal Thakur, TV provided the foundation upon which these stars built their careers. The small screen is not only a source of entertainment, but also the first step to the dreams that make stars into stars.