4 iconic Hindi television shows we've loved watching over the years

These Indian television shows inspired by classic authors have stood the test of time and continue to have an impact on the viewers. Let's dive deep into them!

Literature has always been a mirror of time as it reflects the state of society, challenges and values of people in every era. It's unfortunate, how a lot of people have no time to read and for the same reason classic literature has been adapted into visual formats with the aim of keeping our literary heritage alive. In its prime, television was more than just a source of entertainment. It was bejeweled with iconic shows, especially those inspired by the works of classic Hindi writers, which gave us a deeper understanding of life, culture, and the complexities of human nature. They bridged the gap for those who may not have explored these literary treasures through books but could connect with them through the visual medium. Let's take a look back at some of such show titles that we absolutely love. 

Also Read: Hindi Diwas: 7 must-read Hindi books for beginners

These 4 classic Hindi television shows will always be iconic; here's why!

Lapataganj: Sharad Joshi ki Kahaniyon ka Pata

Lapataganj was one of those shows that I looked forward to watching every day. Set in a rural village, it is inspired by the stories of well-known Hindi writer and satirist, Sharad Joshi and focuses on the lives of the villagers who go through multiple problems. Sharad Joshi’s writing often focused on life's everyday struggles and simple joys, with a unique way of presenting satire, wit, and humor. His works painted a vivid picture of ordinary people dealing with the complexities of their surroundings, whether it be social norms, politics, or the mundane aspects of life. His writing was deeply rooted in the values of Indian society, yet it never shied away from critiquing its contradictions. Lapataganj closely mirrors Joshi’s thematic concerns, particularly in how it humorously portrays the nuances of middle-class life in India. It was my gateway to understanding the country’s culture and the social issues like water shortages, discrimination, and stereotypes I would have otherwise been oblivious about as a child. This show managed to be equal parts educational and entertaining.

R.K. Laxman Ki Duniya: Aam Aadmi ke Meethe Namkeen Kisse

Another such show that focused on the stories of the common man, was R.K. Laxman Ki Duniya: Aam Aadmi ke Meethe Namkeen Kisse, inspired by the works of famous cartoonist and author, R.K. Laxman. The show draws from Laxman’s portrayal of the common man, who remains calm, humorous, and resilient in the face of societal challenges, politics, and everyday absurdities. His cartoons were known for their biting satire, humor, and deep understanding of the socio-political situation in India. In a similar vein, "Aam Aadmi Ke Meethe Namkeen Kisse" brings out the nuances of life through the eyes of ordinary citizens, presented with a combination of humor and social commentary. This isn't the only famous work inspired by the essence of Laxman. Wagle Ki Duniya is another iconic show that also draws from Laxman’s portrayal of the common man.

Byomkesh Bakshi

Anyone who is a fan of mysteries and thrillers would know Byomkesh Bakshi, the iconic detective character, created by Saradindu Bandyopadhyay. The character has been brought to life in various forms, but the television series is one of the most notable and loved adaptations. Byomkesh, often referred to as "satyanweshi" or the seeker of truth, is a sharp and methodical detective who uses his intellect and observation skills to solve the most complex cases. The detective stories penned by Saradindu Bandyopadhyay are not just about solving crimes but are rich in character development, ethical dilemmas, and social commentary. They go beyond the usual mystery format, with Byomkesh questioning societal norms and offering a fresh perspective on the human nature behind every crime.

Chacha Chaudhary

Talking about solving mysteries, Chacha Chaudhary, created by the legendary cartoonist Pran Kumar Sharma, has been a beloved character since his creation, and his popularity led to adaptations across various media. Over the years, Chacha Chaudhary has also been adapted into films and other formats, keeping the charm of the character alive for both old and new generations. The adaptations across these different forms have helped maintain his legacy as a clever, witty, and relatable hero for all ages.

Television, especially through adaptations of classic Hindi literature, acted as a bridge between classic stories and the modern audience. They gave people a chance to connect with classic literature making sure these timeless stories stayed relevant and resonated with new generations.

Which show inspired by the works of Hindi authors did you enjoy the most growing up? Tell us in the comments below. 

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