As India celebrates the auspicious occasion of Ram Navmi, the legacy of Lord Ram continues to echo not only in temples and scriptures but also on our television screens. Over the years, several Indian TV channels have brought the epic tale of Ramayan to life, each with its own vision and storytelling style. These shows havenโt just entertainedโtheyโve educated, inspired, and emotionally connected millions with one of the greatest mythological sagas ever told.
Ramanand Sagarโs Ramayan (1987)
The journey of Ramayan on Indian television began with Ramanand Sagarโs legendary adaptation, which aired on Doordarshan in 1987. It was the first time an Indian mythological epic had been presented on such a grand scale on national television. The show starred Arun Govil as Ram, Dipika Chikhlia as Sita, Sunil Lahri as Lakshman and Dara Singh as Hanuman while Arvind Trivediโs portrayal of Ravan became iconic.
The show’s spiritual tone, powerful performances, and authentic storytelling captured the hearts of viewers across generations. During its original run, people would gather around their televisions as if attending a religious event. Its cultural impact was so profound that the cast members were often revered like deities by the public.
Ramayan (2008) on NDTV Imagine
In 2008, NDTV Imagine introduced a new generation to the story of Ramayan through a modernized version directed by Anand Sagar, son of Ramanand Sagar. This version featured Gurmeet Choudhary as Ram and Debina Bonnerjee as Sita, who later became a real-life couple.
The show was known for its improved visual effects, elaborate sets, and fast-paced narrative. It resonated with younger viewers while still maintaining the emotional and moral essence of the original epic. This retelling kept the mythological genre alive on television and introduced Ramayan to viewers who may have missed the original broadcast.
Siya Ke Ram (2015) on Star Plus
Bringing a fresh perspective, Star Plusโs Siya Ke Ram (2015) stood out by telling the story of Ramayan from Sitaโs point of view. Starring Madirakshi Mundle as Sita and Ashish Sharma as Ram, the show focused on Sitaโs strength, wisdom, and her journey as an equal partner in Ramโs life.
The series was visually stunning, with cinematic storytelling, costumes, and detailed character arcs that appealed especially to women and youth. It offered a much-needed feminist retelling of the epic, shedding light on Sitaโs sacrifices and inner strength.
Ram Siya Ke Luv Kush (2019) on Colors TV
In 2019, Colors TV aired Ram Siya Ke Luv Kush, which focused on the lesser-told story of Ram and Sitaโs twin sons, Luv and Kush. The show explored the journey of the young princes as they grew up in Valmikiโs ashram, unaware of their royal lineage. Through their questions and storytelling, the show reintroduced the story of Ramayan to the people of Ayodhya. The narrative aimed to connect with children and families by showing the impact of Ramayan through the eyes of the next generation.
Though it faced controversies over certain historical inaccuracies, the show added another layer to the mythology on Indian TV. Lord Ram was played by Himanshu Soni and Sita was played by Shivya Pathania.
Shrimad Ramayan (2024) on Sony TV
The most recent addition to the list is Sony TVโs Shrimad Ramayan, which began airing in January 2024. This latest offering is a fresh take on the epic with high production value, emotionally rich storytelling, and a visually grand presentation that stands out in the digital age. Starring Sujay Reu as Lord Ram and Prachi Bansal as Sita, the show aims to stay close to the original text while making the emotions and teachings of the Ramayan accessible to todayโs audience.
With stunning visuals, impactful dialogues, and a soulful background score, Shrimad Ramayan is designed to inspire and inform not just devotees but also young viewers discovering the epic for the first time. The show airs on Sony TV and is also available on Sony LIV for digital streaming.
The Lasting Legacy of Ramayan on Television
Every adaptation of Ramayanโwhether classic or modernโhas left a deep cultural imprint. These shows have done more than just retell a story; theyโve become spiritual experiences, teaching values of dharma, truth, sacrifice, and family bonds.
On Ram Navmi, as we remember the birth of Maryada Purushottam Ram, these television sagas remind us that his story will forever live onโnot just in ancient texts, but in our screens, hearts, and minds.
Jay Siya Ram !
