An A-to-Z look at Indian TV in 2024: Highs, lows, and unforgettable moments
Reflecting on an action-packed year for Indian television
Anupamaa
By Asjad NazirDec 07, 2024
THE world of Indian television witnessed another eventful year, filled with new shows, record-breaking serials, celebrity milestones, candid confessions, and some unexpected flops.
Eastern Eye takes a comprehensive look back at the year with an A-to-Z rundown of the highlights.
A is for Anupamaa: The ever-popular show crossed 1,400 episodes this year. Gripping storylines, unexpected twists, and stellar performances, led by the talented Rupali Ganguly, ensured it remained a ratings juggernaut.
Salman Khan and Munawar Faruqui
B is for Bigg Boss: India’s answer to Celebrity Big Brother continued its reign as the most popular reality show. Season 17 concluded on January 28, with Munawar Faruqui as the surprise winner. Season 18 began in October, with Salman Khan returning as host.
C is for Comedy sitcoms: Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah surpassed 4,200 episodes but faced controversy when cast members like Palak Sindhwani left amid allegations against producers. Meanwhile, Bhabiji Ghar Par Hain! and its spin-off Happu Ki Ultan Paltan remained fan favourites.
D is for Drashti Dhami: The beloved TV actress received an outpouring of love after announcing her pregnancy, sharing touching updates on social media.
Ekta Tiwari
E is for Ekta Tiwari: Known for positive roles in popular dramas like Tere Mere Sapne, Ekta surprised fans by playing an antagonist in the new drama Gudiya Rani, launched this year.
Harpal Singh Sokhi
F is for Food: Cookery shows continued to thrive, with Laughter Chefs emerging as a hit. The show blended comedy and cooking, with celebrities preparing dishes under the guidance of renowned chef Harpal Singh Sokhi.
G is for Ghum Hai Kisikey Pyaar Meiin: The family drama underwent major changes, including a time leap and a refreshed cast, keeping audiences hooked with its mix of emotion and unexpected twists.
Manisha Rani and Ashutosh Pawar
H is for Hina Khan: The top TV icon received universal support after announcing her battle with cancer. She inspired her fans by documenting her brave journey on social media.
Hina Khan
I is for Impact: Jhanak may have debuted last year, but in 2024 it hit its stride, becoming a ratings winner. The Star Plus series was widely praised for its storyline, along with performances from cast members including Hiba Nawab in the title role.
Karan Veer Mehra
J is for Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa: The dance reality show’s 11th season concluded with a grand finale in March, where Manisha Rani and Ashutosh Pawar were crowned winners.
K is for Khatron Ke Khiladi: Season 14 of the reality TV show thrilled viewers with daring stunts. Karan Veer Mehra won, but early controversy surrounded Asim Riaz, who was ejected for alleged bad behaviour.
L is for Languages: While Hindi TV continued to dominate, regional industries in Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, and Marathi flourished, showcasing India’s linguistic diversity.
M is for Megha Barsenge: After an unsuccessful stint on Bigg Boss 17, Neil Bhatt returned to acting with Colors TV’s Megha Barsenge, starring alongside Neha Rana and Kinshuk Mahajan in the story of an abandoned bride.
N is for Nakuul Mehta: The popular actor took on hosting duties for long-running anthology series Crime Patrol, expressing a sense of responsibility in presenting real-life stories.
O is for OTT: Many TV shows found a second life on streaming platforms like ZEE5, Hotstar, and Sony LIV, enabling fans to binge-watch their favourites.
Durga – Atoot Prem Kahani
P is for Pranali Rathod: Pranali returned to TV with Durga – Atoot Prem Kahani. Her lead role alongside veteran Indira Krishnan has been met with glowing reviews.
Q is for Quiz: Kaun Banega Crorepati continued its reign as the most popular quiz show, with Amitabh Bachchan returning as host for its 16th season. It continues to be a blend of education, entertainment, life changing prize money and celebrity guests.
R is for Re-run: Colors TV gave audiences a chance to relive Udaariyaan, which ended after more than 1,100 episodes, with a full rebroadcast.
S is for Struggle: Rashami Desai opened up about the challenges she faced after her 2016 divorce from Nandish Sandhu, including being forced to sleep in her car for four days and dealing with mounting debts. She also shared her struggle with depression in 2018, which led to weight gain, psoriasis, and hair loss. Despite these hardships, Desai revealed how she managed to overcome that difficult phase in her life.
Sumbul Touqeer
T is for Title Role: Sumbul Touqeer added another milestone to her impressive career as the acclaimed serial Kavya – Ek Jazbaa, Ek Junoon came to an end. At just 20 years old, she delivered a standout performance in her second title role, cementing her reputation as an unstoppable force in Indian television. Touqeer now plans to explore new opportunities that challenge her and push her beyond her comfort zone.
U is for Udne Ki Aasha: Premiering earlier this year, the new drama serial featured Kanwar Dhillon and Neha Harsora in the lead roles. Set in Mumbai, the story of two distinctly different personalities being drawn to each other received widespread praise and a positive audience response.
Vivia Dsena
V is for Vivian Dsena: After years of declining lucrative offers, the popular actor finally joined the reality TV show Bigg Boss 18. His participation has made him the standout star of this season.
W is for Witch: Popular actress Nia Sharma returned to television in a negative role, described as the “ultimate witch,” in Colors’ drama Suhagan Chudail. Despite featuring Debchandrima Singha Roy and Zayn Ibad Khan alongside her, the show had a short run and failed to make a lasting impact.
Suhagan Chudail
X is for X-Rated: While streaming platforms continued to push boundaries with explicit content, Indian terrestrial television maintained its clean and family-friendly approach, staying true to its broad audience base.
Y is for Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai: The long-running Indian TV serial faced controversy when producer Rajan Shahi dismissed lead actor Shehzada Dhami after just four months, citing unprofessional behaviour on set. Co-star Pratiksha Honmukhe was also removed for not meeting the expectations of her character. Both characters were recast rather than written out, ensuring the high-profile show continued without disruption.
Z is for Zakir Khan: After achieving global success with sold-out live shows and popular streaming specials, India’s most renowned Hindi stand-up comedian ventured into television with his first major show, Aapka Apna Zakir. Unfortunately, the show failed to meet expectations and was reportedly cancelled due to poor ratings.
Abhishek Bachchan credits Aishwarya Rai for taking the lead in daughter Aaradhya’s upbringing.
Says Aaradhya, now 13, has no phone and stays away from social media.
Calls Aishwarya “selfless” for prioritising parenting over everything else.
Slams online gossip surrounding their marriage as baseless and insensitive.
Actor Abhishek Bachchan has dismissed recent speculation around his marriage with Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, instead shining a light on her unwavering dedication as a mother. In a recent chat, he spoke warmly about their 13-year-old daughter Aaradhya, revealing that she neither owns a mobile phone nor uses social media, something he attributes to Aishwarya’s hands-on parenting.
Aaradhya Bachchan has no access to social media or a personal phoneGetty Images
Aishwarya Rai's parenting praised as ‘selfless and devoted’
Speaking in an interview, Abhishek was full of admiration for how Aishwarya has raised their daughter. "I have to give credit entirely to Aishwarya. I go out and work, but she does all the heavy lifting when it comes to Aaradhya. She’s incredibly selfless,” he said. According to him, Aishwarya’s decision to put her daughter's well-being above everything else has shaped Aaradhya into a grounded young person.
Abhishek Bachchan calls Aishwarya a devoted mother and partnerGetty Images
Aaradhya has no phone, no social media — by choice and design
In an era when most teenagers are glued to their screens, Aaradhya stands out. “She doesn’t have a phone. She’s not on any social media. She’s being raised to be thoughtful and aware,” Abhishek said. He also acknowledged that while Aishwarya plays the larger parenting role, Aaradhya herself deserves credit for the person she’s becoming, calling her a “wonderful little lady” who brings joy and pride to the family.
Aaradhya is now taller than Aishwarya says Abhishek in candid interviewGetty Images
Responds to rumours, says online chatter can be hurtful
For months, the internet has been buzzing with speculation about a rift between Abhishek and Aishwarya. Without naming any specific rumours, Abhishek expressed frustration with how quickly false stories gain traction. “People sit behind their screens and type things without realising they’re talking about real lives. It’s very easy to be nasty online,” he shared during a media interaction.
Aishwarya Rai often seen with daughter Aaradhya at public eventsGetty Images
‘She’s taller than Aishwarya now’: a proud dad reflects
Recalling the night Aaradhya was born, Abhishek fondly mentioned how she once fit in the crook of his arm. “She’s taller than Aishwarya now,” he said with a smile, adding that the happiness of coming home to a healthy family is what matters most to him today.
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Ranveer Singh in a still from Lootera that captured his most restrained performance
Ranveer’s subtle performance in Lootera marked a major shift from his usual high-energy roles.
The 1950s-set romantic drama became a career milestone for the actor.
His restrained, emotionally complex portrayal earned long-term critical acclaim.
The film showcased a successful collaboration with director Vikramaditya Motwane.
As Dhurandhar builds buzz, Lootera reminds us of Ranveer’s range.
Twelve years ago, Ranveer Singh surprised audiences with Lootera, a period romance that asked him to do something unfamiliar: stay still. Set in 1950s Bengal and directed by Vikramaditya Motwane, the film gave Ranveer the space to deliver one of his most subdued and mature performances. No outbursts. No spectacle. Just quiet heartbreak.
Lootera released in 2013 and marked a stylistic shift for Ranveer Singh Prime Video
Here’s why his role as Varun still holds up more than a decade later:
1. A rare lesson in stillness
Known for loud roles and louder screen presence, Ranveer turned things down, way down in Lootera. His portrayal of a soft-spoken, guilt-ridden thief proved that less can sometimes be more. His silences did the heavy lifting, letting emotion simmer just beneath the surface.
Ranveer Singh’s role as Varun showed he could command the screen without saying much
2. He took a risk and it worked
At a time when most rising stars would double down on mass-appealing hits, Ranveer picked a slower, more poetic film. It was a gamble, especially for someone fresh off commercial successes. But Lootera earned him serious critical respect and broadened perceptions of what he could do as an actor.
The period romance Lootera became a turning point in Ranveer Singh’s career
3. An emotionally layered performance
Varun isn’t a typical romantic lead. He’s torn, flawed, and emotionally guarded. Ranveer managed to convey all that complexity with minimal dialogue, relying instead on body language and micro-expressions that hinted at heartbreak and inner conflict.
Ranveer Singh’s performance in Lootera was praised for its emotional restraint
4. A director who brought out his quieter side
Vikramaditya Motwane’s direction played a big role in shaping the performance. There’s a quiet rhythm to the film, and Ranveer adapted beautifully to it. The collaboration allowed him to step into a world that demanded introspection over intensity, and he delivered.
Ranveer Singh and Sonakshi Sinha starred in the romantic drama set in 1950s BengalYoutube/Altt Balaji Motion Pictures
5. A role that aged well
Not all performances hold up years later, but Lootera does. While it wasn’t a box office juggernaut, the film has since found cult love. Ranveer’s turn as Varun remains one of his most respected, proof that charisma doesn’t always need volume.
Lootera’s legacy has grown over the years despite its modest box office runYoutube/Altt Balaji Motion Pictures
What’s next?
Twelve years on, Lootera continues to be a defining moment in Ranveer Singh’s career. And with his next film, Dhurandhar, already drawing attention for a darker transformation, it’s clear the actor is still full of surprises.
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AR Rahman and Hans Zimmer smile together in viral selfie
AR Rahman and Hans Zimmer will collaborate on the soundtrack for Ramayana: Part One, directed by Nitesh Tiwari.
Rahman shared a selfie with Zimmer on Instagram, captioned “With @hanszimmer #ramayanamovie”.
The photo sparked a wave of excitement online, with fans and celebrities calling it a “historic moment”.
Ramayana: Part One stars Ranbir Kapoor, Yash, and Sai Pallavi, and is set for a Diwali 2026 release.
AR Rahman’s latest Instagram post has set the tone for what might be one of the most ambitious film music projects in recent Indian cinema. The Oscar-winning composer shared a selfie with legendary Hollywood music producer Hans Zimmer, confirming their collaboration on Nitesh Tiwari’s Ramayana: Part One. The picture quickly went viral, as fans celebrated the rare coming together of two globally acclaimed composers for a single Indian film.
AR Rahman confirms collaboration with Hans Zimmer on InstagramInstagram/arrahman
Music fans celebrate Rahman–Zimmer team-up
The image, shared on 4 July, featured Rahman smiling beside Zimmer, with the simple caption: “With @hanszimmer #ramayanamovie.” But the response was anything but simple. Social media platforms lit up with comments from fans, celebrities, and fellow musicians. Singer Armaan Malik commented “Legends”, while actor Lauren Gottlieb called it “iconic”. One fan summed up the mood online, calling it “the frame of the decade.” Others hailed it as a historic cultural crossover. “ARR x HZ. The frame everyone will remember,” read one comment, while another declared, “Two titans cooking up something colossal.”
Helmed by Dangal director Nitesh Tiwari, Ramayana: Part One is shaping up to be a high-budget adaptation of the Indian epic. The first look, released on 3 July, featured Ranbir Kapoor as Lord Ram and KGF star Yash as Ravana, earning praise for its grandeur and top-notch VFX by Oscar-winning studio DNEG. The film also stars Sai Pallavi as Sita, Sunny Deol as Hanuman, and Ravie Dubey as Lakshman. The sneak peek hinted at an intense visual and narrative experience, portraying the Ram-Ravana war as a battle of cosmic proportions.
Ramayana: Part One is produced by Prime Focus Studios’ Namit Malhotra and co-produced by Yash. The film is scheduled for a global release in Diwali 2026, with Part Two expected to follow in Diwali 2027. With the Zimmer–Rahman musical partnership added to the mix, expectations are now sky-high. As one user wrote: “Close your eyes and you're in another world. This soundtrack is going to be unreal.”
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Birmingham celebrates its heavy metal roots with Back to the Beginning show
Ozzy Osbourne to perform one final time in Birmingham on 5 July, reuniting with Black Sabbath’s original line-up.
Villa Park will host a 10-hour metal concert titled Back to the Beginning, curated by Tom Morello.
The line-up includes Metallica, Slayer, Pantera, and others; proceeds go to three Birmingham-based charities.
The reunion marks the first time Ozzy, Iommi, Butler, and Ward will play together in 20 years.
After a lifetime of chaotic stage antics, searing vocals, and defining an entire music genre, Ozzy Osbourne is officially calling time on his career. On Saturday, the 76-year-old rock legend will headline his final concert in Birmingham, his birthplace, alongside the original members of Black Sabbath, the band that started it all.
Billed as Back to the Beginning, the sold-out event will not only mark Osbourne’s last performance but also a rare reunion with Tony Iommi, Geezer Butler, and Bill Ward. Their last appearance as a full group was two decades ago.
Ozzy Osbourne to perform one final time in BirminghamGetty Images
Final Black Sabbath reunion draws massive crowd to Villa Park
Villa Park, home to Aston Villa Football Club, will be transformed into heavy metal ground zero on 5 July. The 42,000-seat venue is just minutes from the terraced home in Aston where Osbourne’s journey began. It’s a poetic return for the man dubbed the "Prince of Darkness."
Demand for the show was overwhelming. Tickets vanished in 16 minutes, hotel prices in the city have surged and Black Sabbath murals now blanket Birmingham’s streets.
'Greatest day in metal history' brings top acts to honour Black Sabbath
Curated by Rage Against the Machine’s Tom Morello, the lineup includes Metallica, Pantera, Gojira, Halestorm, Slayer, and members of Guns N' Roses and Tool. All are performing in tribute to Black Sabbath, the band that turned bluesy rock into a darker, thunderous force back in the late 1960s.
The concert is expected to last over 10 hours. Osbourne will perform a solo set before reuniting with Black Sabbath for hits like Paranoid, War Pigs, and Black Sabbath.
Ozzy Osbourne reflects on legacy, health, and retirement
Though known for his wild, unpredictable persona, from biting a bat onstage to being the first reality TV rock dad, Ozzy’s recent years have been marked by health issues. Diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2020 and recovering from spinal surgeries, Osbourne says he’s finally ready to slow down.
“I’ve announced retirements before,” he admitted in an interview. “But this time, I know it’s right. I want to be with my family and enjoy what time I’ve got left.”
Ozzy Osbourne and Black Sabbath reunite in Birmingham for farewell concert after two decades Getty Images
Profits from the concert will go to Cure Parkinson’s, Birmingham Children’s Hospital, and Acorns Hospice, causes close to Osbourne’s heart.
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Priyanka Chopra says she wants strong roles not just ornamental characters
Priyanka Chopra Jonas says she’s just getting started in Hollywood.
Stars as a fierce MI6 agent alongside Idris Elba and John Cena.
Gets into serious action mode with explosions, helicopters, and hand-to-hand combat.
Says her journey is still evolving, with much more to explore in the West.
Priyanka Chopra Jonas may have ruled Bollywood for over two decades, but the global star believes she’s still “nascent” in her Hollywood journey, and that’s what makes it exciting.
The Quantico and Citadel actor stars in the new Amazon Prime Video film Heads of State, playing a sharp MI6 agent named Noel Bisset. Her character has a complicated history with British Prime Minister Sam Clarke (played by Idris Elba) and is tasked with protecting him and the newly elected US President Will Derringer (John Cena) when they're attacked before a major NATO conference.
Priyanka Chopra calls herself nascent in Hollywood as 'Heads of State' streams on Prime VideoGetty Images
In a chat with PTI, Priyanka said she’s proud of her Indian film career and now wants to build an equally diverse portfolio in the West.
“It’s constant evolution for sure. I would’ve never imagined in 2002, when I did my first movie, that I’d be here today,” she said. “I feel like I’m really nascent in my work in the West. I have a major filmography in India, across genres and with amazing filmmakers. I want to build on that in English-language work too. There’s a lot more to do and explore, and I’m excited to see what unfolds.”
Over the years, Priyanka has taken on major Hollywood roles in Baywatch, The Matrix Resurrections, Love Again, and, of course, her breakout lead role in Quantico.
With Heads of State, directed by Ilya Naishuller, she says she had a blast, literally. From gun battles and hand-to-hand fights to explosive helicopter sequences, the film puts her action skills to the test once again.
“I want to be proud of the work I do. I try to choose characters with agency, not just ornamental roles,” she said. “This was a fun movie to do, and I’m really proud of what I did with this character.”
Priyanka Chopra wants to build her English film portfolio after Bollywood successGetty Images
The action-heavy film gave her the chance to collaborate with WWE legend-turned-actor John Cena for the first time, even though they started their careers around the same time in the early 2000s.
“I’ve known of John since his WWE days. He’s so popular in India; it’s hard not to know him,” she laughed. “When he transitioned to movies, I found his choice of roles really interesting. So I was very excited to work with him.”
Priyanka added that Cena is just as funny off-screen as he is on it, something that made their scenes easier and more spontaneous.
“He’s got great comedic timing even in real life. That helps a lot, especially when you're improvising on set.”
Talking about the film’s high-octane stunts, Priyanka gave full credit to the crew.
“Actors are only as good as the teams around us, especially in a movie like this. We had an incredible stunt team and a visionary director who storyboarded nearly every shot. He knew exactly how high a helicopter needed to be or how big an explosion should look. When you’re surrounded by such a solid technical team, you feel confident and capable, no matter which country you’re filming in.”
Ilya Naishuller, Priyanka Chopra and John Cena attend the special screening for "Head of State" Getty Images
The ensemble cast also includes Paddy Considine, Stephen Root, Carla Gugino, Jack Quaid, and Sarah Niles. The film is produced by Peter Safran and John Rickard.
As she continues balancing work across continents, Priyanka Chopra says one thing remains unchanged: her drive to grow.
“Success is constant evolution,” she said. “And I feel like I’m just getting started out here.”