Bharat Ek Khoj: A stellar series based on Jawaharlal Nehru's book 'The Discovery of India', Bharat Ek Khoj depicted the history of India, from its origin till Independence. Directed by Shyam Benegal, Roshan Seth played Nehru, and also doubled up as the storyteller. Stalwarts like Om Puri Tom Alter and Sadashiv Amrapurkar were also part of the show.
Surabhi: A hugely popular cultural magazine show of the 90s, Surabhi was delightfully anchored by Renuka Shahane and Siddharth Kak. The show became hugely popular among audiences as it invited viewer participation, and people sent in postcards in big numbers in an era before mobiles and the internet.
Quiz Time: There have been numerous quiz shows in India, but Siddharth Basu's 'Quiz Time' definitely pioneered the quizzing revolution in India. The show, which began in 1985, gave audiences plenty to ponder upon, and made Basu a household name. No wonder Basu is the brain behind the equally successful 'KBC'.
News bulletin: Much before the era of Breaking News, there were the simple newsreaders with a 'no fuss' attitude. They just came and read the bulletin written on paper sheets kept on their desk. Everything you wanted to know was delivered to you, and in the manner that you wanted.
The World This Week: Apart from the general news bulletin, there was also the weekly show hosted meticulously by Prannoy Roy, which did a detailed recap of all the major news happening around the world. It was among the most followed news show of its time.
Phool Khile Hain Gulshan Gulshan: This was the first talk show of Indian television, and arguably one of the most popular ones ever. It was hosted by Tabassum, who was once a popular child star. Her affable demeanour towards the celebrity guests made the show a worthy watch. The format wherein chat was mixed with film scenes was also much-liked by the audiences.
The puppet show: Remember Ramdas Padhye and his puppet show? Chances are, if you grew up in the 80s and the 90s, you definitely will. The show by India's most-renowned ventriloquist was extremely popular, especially among children, not only because it was highly entertaining, but also because it had a message.
The World of Sports: Nowadays, live telecast of most sports events, no matter how inconsequential they are, has become a norm. But, there was a time when a Sunday evening show was your only window to the world of sports. Hosted by well-known names like Anupam Gulati, Dr Narottam Puri (in pic) and Avtar Singh Sethi, 'The World Of Sports' told you about most niche games like billiards, chess and even amateur wrestling, while today sports in India has become synonymous with cricket.
Mile Sur Mere Tumhara: It wasn't a show as such, but the video made to promote national integrity and the country's unity in diversity was so well shot that it went on to garner a massive fan following. Celebs from all walks of like featured in it, and it is one video that still makes you feel proud to be an Indian.
Chitrahaar/ Chayageet: Much before cable television invaded our lives, these two shows were our only options to listen to the latest as well as classic melodious songs on television. The mix of the new and the old made the viewing captivating. They don't make it like that anymore
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