Indian television has undergone transformative changes since its inception, reflecting societal shifts and technological advancements. The journey began with Doordarshan, India's national broadcaster, presenting simple, family-oriented stories. Shows like "Hum Log" and "Buniyaad" offered viewers relatable narratives grounded in everyday struggles.
The 1990s marked a pivotal era with the liberalization of the Indian economy and the introduction of cable television. This gave rise to private channels like Zee TV and Star Plus, which broadened content offerings with shows like "Tara" and "Swabhimaan," delving into modern urban contexts.
The 2000s ushered in the "saas-bahu" melodramas, epitomized by Ekta Kapoor's Balaji Telefilms Kumkum Bhagya Story Update. Series such as "Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi" became household staples, exploring intricate family dynamics. This era also saw the rise of TRP-driven narratives, where success was judged by ratings.
With the advent of digital streaming platforms in the late 2010s, Indian TV serials adapted yet again. The new platforms enabled experimentation with content, style, and themes. Shows like "Sacred Games" on Netflix and "Family Man" on Amazon Prime took storytelling to global audiences, blending traditional elements with modern storytelling.