old Indian TV Series Ahead of Their Time: Rewriting History Through Entertainment

Several old Indian TV series are often regarded as being ahead of their time due to their themes, storytelling, and production quality. Here are a few notable examples that not only entertained but also sparked conversations about important social issues, making them significant contributions to Indian television history.

Malgudi Days (1987-1988)

Malgudi Days, based on R.K. Narayan's works, captures the essence of life in the fictional town of Malgudi. The series is praised for its sophisticated storytelling, character development, and emphasis on Indian culture and values. These elements make it stand out even today as a work that successfully blends tradition and modernity.

Hum Log (1984-1985)

Hum Log, often recognized as India's first television soap opera, addressed social issues such as poverty, family dynamics, and aspirations. The series combined entertainment with education, making it groundbreaking for Indian television. It set a new standard for social relevance in TV content, paving the way for future shows that tackle societal issues with both seriousness and entertainment.

Buniyaad (1986)

Buniyaad deals with the aftermath of the Partition of India and its impact on families. The series tackles complex themes of identity loss and resilience in a way that is both engaging and thought-provoking. Through its compelling narrative, Buniyaad offers a unique perspective on the partition, making it a crucial piece of India's television history.

Karamchand (1985-1986)

Karamchand, a detective series featuring a quirky private investigator, was unique for its humor and clever plotlines. This series paved the way for future crime dramas in Indian television by blending investigation with witty and entertaining storytelling. The humor in Karamchand is so well-integrated that it never feels forced, making it a timeless classic.

Udaan (1997-1998)

Udaan focuses on the life of a young girl fighting against societal norms and oppression. Its strong female protagonist and themes of empowerment were quite progressive for its time. The series not only entertains but also encourages viewers to think critically about gender roles and societal expectations.

Shanti (1994-1995)

Shanti is a groundbreaking series that focuses on the life of a woman journalist. It addresses issues such as feminism, career challenges, and personal identity, offering a fresh perspective on women's roles in society. The series is a testament to the power of storytelling to challenge conventional norms and promote social change.

Tamas (1987)

Tamas, a miniseries based on Bhisham Sahni's novel, depicts the horrors of the Partition of India. Its realistic portrayal of communal tensions and human suffering is both poignant and impactful. The series provides a raw and honest glimpse into a turbulent period in Indian history, making it a significant contribution to the nation's cultural discourse.

Other Notable Series

While the aforementioned series are considered ahead of their time, one cannot ignore the stand-out show Sarabhai vs Sarabhai (2004) which deserves special mention. The first season of this series is celebrated for its hilarious and witty dialogues, well-rounded characters, and complex family dynamics. Sarabhai vs Sarabhai goes beyond the more traditional saas bahu narratives by providing a relatable and nuanced exploration of family life and class differences.

With its iconic minor characters and subtle portrayal of societal issues, Sarabhai vs Sarabhai challenges viewers to reflect on the complexities of Indian society. The show's layered storytelling and willingness to engage with difficult topics make it a standout in the world of Indian television and a series that remains super underrated despite its immediate relevance.

These series not only entertained but also sparked conversations about important social issues, making them significant contributions to Indian television history. They serve as a reminder of the power of television to educate, inspire, and provoke thought in society.