Top 10 Mythological TV Series that Made History on Indian Television
Indian television has always had a deep and emotional connection with mythology. Rooted in a culture steeped in ancient epics, sacred texts, and folklore, mythological shows have played a pivotal role in shaping the identity and direction of Indian TV. From the black-and-white era to today’s high-definition, VFX-loaded spectacles, these shows have inspired generations, sparked debates, influenced pop culture, and brought families together every weekend.
Let’s take a trip down memory lane and revisit 10 mythological shows that shaped Indian television, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to echo through the decades.
1. Ramayan (1987): No list of mythological shows can begin without paying homage to Ramanand Sagar’s Ramayan. Airing for the first time in 1987, this show wasn’t just television—it was a cultural phenomenon. Streets would go empty on Sunday mornings as families gathered to watch the epic retelling of Lord Rama’s journey.
What made Ramayan legendary was its sincerity. Despite limited technology and a modest budget, the show had an emotional gravitas that connected with the Indian soul. Arun Govil (as Lord Rama) and Deepika Chikhalia (as Sita) became household names, revered almost like deities.
Created by: Ramanand Sagar. Channel: Doordarshan (DD National)
2. Mahabharat (1988): A year after Ramayan, came the equally iconic Mahabharat by B.R. Chopra. Unlike the simple black-and-white morality of Ramayan, Mahabharat presented the world in shades of grey—showcasing dharma, power, jealousy, and destiny.
The show’s powerful narration by Harish Bhimani (“Main Samay hoon…”) is still remembered by fans today. With an ensemble cast that gave us iconic portrayals of Krishna (Nitish Bharadwaj), Bhishma, Duryodhana, and Karna, Mahabharat didn’t just tell a story—it was an experience.
Created by: B.R. Chopra. Channel: Doordarshan (DD National)
3. Shri Krishna (1993):After the success of Ramayan, Ramanand Sagar created Shri Krishna, which chronicled the life of Lord Krishna—from his mischievous childhood to his role in the Mahabharat. This show explored the divine leelas of Krishna with a devotional tone and strong storytelling.
What set Shri Krishna apart was its visual vibrancy and musical richness. The show’s bhajans and devotional songs are still played in temples and religious gatherings.
Created by: Ramanand Sagar. Channel: Doordarshan and later Zee TV
4. Om Namah Shivay (1997):While Ramayan and Mahabharat dominated with Vaishnavite (Rama and Krishna) narratives, Om Namah Shivay focused on Shaivism and the tales of Lord Shiva. Covering stories from various Puranas, the show offered a mystical look into the cosmic role of Shiva as both creator and destroyer.
Its spiritual storytelling, grand sets, and compelling performances (especially Samar Jai Singh as Lord Shiva) made the show a major success.
Created by: Dheeraj Kumar (Creative Eye Ltd.). Channel: DD National
5. Devon Ke Dev… Mahadev (2011–2014):A modern reimagination of Shiva’s mythology, Devon Ke Dev… Mahadev broke the mold with high-quality VFX, a cinematic narrative, and layered characters. Mohit Raina’s portrayal of Lord Shiva was powerful, emotional, and nuanced, earning him massive fandom.
The show brought mythological storytelling to a new generation by blending tradition with visual spectacle.
Produced by: Triangle Film Company. Channel: Life OK
6. Vishnu Puran (2000–2001):Returning to the screen after Mahabharat, B.R. Chopra brought us Vishnu Puran, which covered the ten avatars of Lord Vishnu. Narrated with clarity and gravitas, the show featured Nitish Bharadwaj once again—this time in the titular role of Lord Vishnu.
The show gave equal attention to stories like Prahlad, Vamana, Parashurama, and Krishna—bringing a wholesome perspective to Vishnu’s role in maintaining dharma.
7. Jai Hanuman (1997–2000): Jai Hanuman explored the life of the monkey god Hanuman—from his birth to his role in the Ramayan, and even after it. With narration from Lord Shiva’s perspective, the show had a unique devotional tone.
Raj Premi’s portrayal of Hanuman was filled with strength, humility, and childlike devotion—perfectly embodying the bhakti rasa that defines Hanuman’s character.
Created by: Sanjay Khan. Channel: DD Metro, Sony TV
8. Shani (2016–2018): Bringing a celestial and lesser-known deity into prime time, Shani explored the life of Lord Shani—son of Surya (Sun God) and a symbol of karma, justice, and discipline. The show dared to go beyond traditional epics and ventured into astrology-inspired mythology.
With high-end production, impressive visuals, and layered character arcs, Shani introduced audiences to the cosmic consequences of human actions.
Produced by: Swastik Productions. Channel: Colors TV
9. Siya Ke Ram (2015–2016):While Ramayan has been told many times, Siya Ke Ram stood out for presenting the epic through Sita’s perspective. The show focused on her upbringing in Mithila, her strength, decisions, and sacrifices—offering a feminist reinterpretation of the Ramayan.
Lavish sets, beautiful costumes, and heartfelt performances made the show popular, especially among modern audiences looking for a fresh take on ancient tales.
Produced by: Nikhil Sinha. Channel: Star Plus
10. RadhaKrishn (2018–2023): More than a mythological tale, RadhaKrishn is a philosophical love story. Focusing on the divine relationship between Radha and Krishna, it explores the idea of prema (divine love), bhakti, and the transcendence of ego.
It blended poetry, music, dance, and spiritual discourse, making it a unique mytho-romantic show. Sumedh Mudgalkar’s portrayal of Krishna brought immense popularity among young viewers.
Produced by: Siddharth Kumar Tewary. Channel: Star Bharat
Conclusion:
Mythological shows on Indian television are not just about gods and wars. They’re about values, choices, devotion, justice, and timeless human dilemmas. From the old-world charm of Ramayan to the glamorous depth of RadhaKrishn, these shows have transcended generations, formats, and social changes.
They continue to evolve—from the streets of Ayodhya to the cosmic realms of Kailash and Vaikuntha—carrying forward a tradition of storytelling that defines India’s spiritual DNA.
Whether you watch them for nostalgia, belief, or curiosity, one thing is certain: these mythological shows will never go out of style.
