Top 10 Longest Running Indian TV Shows of All Time

July 21, 2025

Indian television has produced countless daily soaps, sitcoms, crime thrillers, and mythological shows. But only a few have stood the test of time. These shows didn’t just entertain – they became part of the Indian household fabric.

Here’s a curated list of the top 10 longest-running Indian TV serials, ranked by episode count, longevity, and cultural impact.

1. Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah (2008 – Present)

Channel: Sony SAB
Episodes: 4000+ (still ongoing)
Genre: Comedy / Family Sitcom

This slice-of-life comedy set in Gokuldham Society has become India’s longest-running sitcom. From Daya Ben’s "Hey Maa, Mataji!" to Jethalal’s "Ae Babita Ji", every character is now iconic.
📌 [Related: Disha Vakani's Return as Daya Ben – Rumors or Facts?]

2. Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai (2009 – Present)

Channel: Star Plus
Episodes: 4200+ (still ongoing)
Genre: Family / Drama

This show began with Akshara and Naitik’s journey and has now moved on to new generations. YRKKH is the longest-running Hindi drama show still active on Indian TV.

3. CID (1998 – 2018)

Channel: Sony TV
Episodes: 1546
Genre: Crime / Thriller

For two decades, ACP Pradyuman, Daya, and Abhijeet solved mysteries and became TV’s favorite cops. The phrase “Daya, darwaza tod do” still resonates with every 90s kid.

4. Balika Vadhu (2008 – 2016)

Channel: Colors TV
Episodes: 2245
Genre: Social Drama

This show tackled child marriage and other societal issues with sensitivity and grace. It introduced stars like Avika Gor and Siddharth Shukla to Indian audiences.

5. Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi (2000 – 2008)

Channel: Star Plus
Episodes: 1833
Genre: Drama / Family

Ekta Kapoor’s magnum opus featuring Tulsi Virani changed the landscape of Indian television. It ruled TRP charts for years and set the template for saas-bahu dramas.

6. Kasautii Zindagii Kay (2001 – 2008)

Channel: Star Plus
Episodes: 1423
Genre: Romantic Drama

With the eternal love triangle of Prerna, Anurag, and Mr. Bajaj, this show became a cult classic. Komolika's entry music still echoes in meme culture today.

7. Kumkum Bhagya (2014 – Present)

Channel: Zee TV
Episodes: 2200+ (ongoing)
Genre: Romantic / Drama

Another Ekta Kapoor hit, this show follows the complex life of Pragya and Abhi. Despite multiple leaps and twists, it continues to engage its audience.

8. Uttaran (2008 – 2015)

Channel: Colors TV
Episodes: 1549
Genre: Social Drama

A tale of friendship, jealousy, and class divide, Uttaran won hearts with characters like Ichcha and Tapasya and maintained a strong fan base for years.

9. Pavitra Rishta (2009 – 2014)

Channel: Zee TV
Episodes: 1424
Genre: Drama / Romance

Starring Sushant Singh Rajput and Ankita Lokhande, this show is remembered not only for its emotional storyline but also for introducing Sushant to the world.

10. Devon Ke Dev...Mahadev (2011 – 2014)

Channel: Life OK
Episodes: 820
Genre: Mythological

Though shorter in episode count compared to others, this show left a huge cultural mark. Mohit Raina as Lord Shiva and Mouni Roy as Parvati became household names.

Honorable Mentions

Crime Patrol (Sony TV) – Multiple seasons since 2003, still running.
Savdhaan India (Star Bharat) – Real-life inspired crime stories with moral messages.
Bhabiji Ghar Par Hain! (2015 – Present) – One of the most successful Hindi comedy serials post-TMKOC.

Why These Shows Survived the Test of Time?

Strong Emotional Connect: Families could watch together.
Character Attachment: Viewers formed bonds with characters.
Daily Routine Integration: These shows became a part of viewers’ daily schedules.
TRP Sustenance: Clever scripting, festivals, and twists helped retain TRPs.

Final Thoughts

Indian television has evolved with OTT platforms, but these evergreen shows are proof that good storytelling, emotion, and connection with the audience never go out of style.

Did your favorite make the list?
Let us know in the comments or suggest a classic we missed!

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