New Delhi, May 01, 2025.
Television programming in India has come a long way, evolving from a mere experiment to a thriving industry that plays a pivotal role in the lives of many. It is among the most influential communication, entertainment, and education mediums today.
While programmes from different genre are aired on television today, there was a time when either news bulletins or Krishi Darshan were the most watched show. But, it all changed in the early 80s, when scripted TV shows, called serials aired. ‘Hum Log’ is said to be the first Indian TV serial that created a viewership record that even the hits of today are unable to touch.
Conceptualised by Vasant Sathe, the then Information and Broadcasting Minister, Hum Log was developed in collaboration with writer Manohar Shyam Joshi and director P. Kumar Vasudev. The show was influenced by Mexican drama.
Hum Log was the story of a middle-class family’s struggles and aspirations. Within a short span of time, Badki, Nanhe, Chukti and Lajwanti became household names. The serial dealt with the issues that were prevalent at that time like gender discrimination, alcoholism, poverty along with superstition, and career prospects.
