If you grew up watching classic American television shows like “Full House,” “Gilmore Girls,” and “Boy Meets World,” then you’re probably ready to be living in that wonderful era again. All these shows are coming back to take their viewers down memory lane.
Wouldn’t it be a treat to see some of our favorite Hindi shows make a comeback too? And no, I don’t mean the Ekta Kapoor family sagas—those have caused enough trauma for one lifetime. But growing up, we definitely were witness to some incredible shows that helped define Indian television and made us laugh, or even changed the way drama worked on the small screen.
We cooked up a list of the shows we can only wish decided to come back in some form–a reunion, a sequel, a miniseries, we’d take any of it. Be prepared to be swept up in nostalgia.
1. “Sarabhai vs. Sarabhai” (2004-2006)
This sitcom will always be a happy reminder that we are capable of creating a comedy show that is legendary. The Sarabhais became such a huge part of our lives. The writing and acting were so on point that ten years after the show ended, we are happy to watch it again in an instant. (Admit it, you probably remember Roshesh’s poems all too well.) Everyone would celebrate if the show ever came back for another season.
Fun fact: The cast got together recently to celebrate their 10-year-anniversary at Raghavan’s house and it looks like they had the greatest time.
2. “Khichdi” (2002)
Before we had the sophistication of the Sarabhai’s, Aatish Kapadia, JD Majethia and Deven Bhojani gave us another family comedy to devour: the Parekh parivaar. Each character was unique and hilarious—from the silliness of Hansa and Praful to the queen of gossip, Jayshree, the show brought to us the daily struggles of a middle-class family in the most humorous way possible. They even brought it back for another season, “Instant Khichdi,” which ran from 2005-06. This was followed by, “Khichdi: The Movie,” in 2010, becoming the first Hindi show to be adapted for the big screen. I think it’s the perfect time to bring the family back so we can all say in unison, bade log, bade log.
3. “Hum Paanch” (1995-2006)
Another great family comedy, this show will go down in history for providing us a funny look into the relationship of five wacky siblings, and their equally nutty parents. Granted, their dad tried to stay sane despite the characteristics of his family. It is safe to say every girl could relate to Sweety (Rakhi Tandon) and her mad love for Shah Rukh Khan in his pre-abs days. At the same time, Kajal bhai become famous for breaking norms of how women should behave and dress. Wouldn’t it be a great time to bring it back for a few episodes to show us where the sisters ended up?
4. “Tu Tu Main Main” (1994-2000)
Honestly, this is one saas-bahu narrative that viewers actually deserved. Most shows throw such a negative, evil light to this relationship—but this show changed the game. Reema Lagoo and Supriya Pilgaonkar had such great chemistry, even in the midst of their witty banter—this is what families could relate to. They did bring the show back with “Kadvee Khatee Meethi,” with roles a little reversed wherein Pilgaonkar’s Radha wasn’t just the daughter-in-law anymore, she was also the mother-in-law. Honestly, who would mind watching another reboot now?
5. “Remix” (2004-2006)
Ah, this teen drama became an instant hit thanks to the angsty romance mixed with high school excitement. The story focused on four 12th graders who form a band–Remix. The show’s music coupled with highlighting the thrill and awkwardness of going to a new school, making new friends, and falling in love for the first time hit a sweet spot with the young adults. The band Aasma also lent their voice to all the songs. Remix had a huge fan following, all of whom would love to see a 10-year-reunion special!
6. “Hip Hip Hurray” (1998-2001)
Every kid who grew up in the 90s and watched TV had a special connection with “Hip Hip Hurray.” Getting to see school kids develop romantic feelings, form friendships and have fights, all while under the pressure of studying, exams, family, and more, was eye-opening and fun at the same time. K.K. and Hema Sardesai also sang the unforgettable title track. Much like Remix, fans would be elated for some form of a reunion episode.
7. “Shubh Mangal Savdhan” (2004)
The funny trio of Sumeet Raghavan, Dileep Joshi, and Amit Mistry really brought their A-game to this show. As three roommates who are known for doing all kinds of jugaad, they really made us laugh—and the best part is Raghavan recently hinted at a possible reunion. We can only hope that it is true!
8. “Just Mohabbat” (1996-2000)
This was another classic drama that was great for the kids, teenagers and adults in the family. Sometimes, we get so lost in our own problems, we lose our perspective. Watching this show revealed the large scheme of things in family dynamics, childhood woes and the fun/problems of teenage life in a relatable way. Plus, it was just really lots of fun to watch Jai grow up. A reboot showing how his adult life turned out would be just as much, probably even more, fun if done right!
9. “Dekh Bhai Dekh” (1993)
Starring comedy champions like Shekhar Suman, Farida Jalal, Bhavana Balsavar and more, this show will always be special and one-of-a-kind. Family comedies were at a peak in the last two decades, with this one being the lead. Focusing on the joint family of three generations, there was never a lack of laughs. A reboot showing what other additions the Diwan family had and where they all ended up would be equally entertaining.
10. “Shararat” (1998-2009)
Not too many Indian shows that feature magic, or any form of sci-fi for that matter, do it well. “Shararat” mixed fairies with the usual post-adolescent drama–secret crushes and college life. Shruti Seth turned into an overnight favorite with her portrayal of the lead protagonist, Jiya, aided by none other than Farida Jalal, who played her lovable grandmother.
Based loosely on American show “Sabrina, the Teenage Witch,” this show did mighty well and ran for five seasons. Maybe Disney India could do a follow-up reboot, showing how Jiya moved on after the events of the series finale—which showed her finally getting together with the man of her dreams.
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