Tulsi, Parvati, Shanti, Jassi, and Tara may not be real, but the way they essayed the spirit of womanhood on the small screen is commendable. All of them are gentle yet fierce and their complex personalities have made a place in our hearts for sure. 

On Women’s Day, we present to you a bunch of legendary women from the television industry...take a look. 

Shanti (Shanti)

A cult serial of the mid-90s, Shanti, was about a young, aspiring journalist essayed by Mandira Bedi. She wished to write a biography of two of her friends from Bollywood’s biggest production house. Both of them had a dark past, which remained a secret till Shanti came along. Bedi played a strong woman, who finds out that one of the two is her biological father.

Tara (Tara)

Tracing the journey of a modern, urban woman Tara, the series was a first of its kind. The show dealt with many emotions of Tara and three of her friends. It went on to become a huge hit for the portrayal of modern, educated, and working women of the contemporary society.

Priya (Saans)

Saans narrated the story of Priya, a middle-aged woman, who had a blissful life with her two children until she became aware about her husband’s extra marital affair. The show followed the journey of Priya, who started living a dignified life even after his husband’s infidelity. At the end, she made her own decision of leading her life according to her terms. The show rightly captured the attention of the viewers, making Priya one of the strongest women of television.

Pooja (Kora Kagaz)

Kora Kagaz depicted the story of a young bride named Pooja, who soon after her marriage, realises her husband’s love for another woman. When he leaves his new bride for his lover, Pooja starts to fight for her rights at her in-laws house. 

Anandi (Balika Vadhu)

The show itself was a path-breaking series, which dealt with the issue of child marriage. Anandi, who became the victim of this evil social custom, grew up to become a strong, independent woman. The series is still airing and follows Anandi’s journey for the betterment of women.

Jassi (Jassi Jaissi Koi Nahin)

The entire nation went gaga over this not-so-good looking but extremely intelligent woman. The bright and quick-witted Jassi dreamt of having a successful career in the fashion industry by wooing the nation with her brilliance and inner beauty.

Tulsi (Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi)

One of the most powerful women on television, Tulsi was an affectionate bahu, Beti, biwi and ma, who believed in values and honour. But in a shocking twist, she killed her youngest son to protect her daughter-in-law, who was a victim of marital rape. 

Parvati (Kahaani Ghar Ghar Kii)

As the elder daughter-in-law of the Aggarwal house, Parvati was committed to her family and performed every duty whole heartedly. When she was thrown out of the house, she made a dignified and determined come back and claimed her rights. 

Dr. Simran (Astitva - Ek Prem Kahani)

A renowned gynecologist, Dr. Simran portrayed an independent, modern, and educated Indian woman. Despite her parent’s objection, she married a man who was ten years younger than her. After having an unsettled married life, she brought up her husband’s daughter as a single mother.

Sandhya (Diya Aur Baati Hum)

A middle class girl’s dream of becoming an IPS officer was shattered when she was married to a Halwai. But the brave-hearted girl continued to follow her dreams with her husband’s support and went on to become an IPS officer. 

Kumkum (Kumkum)

Another caring and loving woman of Indian television, Kumkum, lost her husband at a young age and got married to his younger brother. She fiercely loved her family and was always ready to protect them at any cost.

Heena (Heena)

Raised in a Muslim family, Heena married Sameer, who left her for another woman. Soon after their divorce, Heena married his friend Akram. But unfortunately, same misery hit her again. Finally, she decided to live on her own terms and emerged as one of the strongest characters on Indian television.

Chandramukhi Chautala (F.I.R.)

She is not a typical Bahu or Beti of Indian television. Rather than being sweet and fragile, she is one rough and tough cop, with a no-nonsense attitude. 

Laali (Agle Janam Mohe Bitiya Hi Kijo):

Laali was a young teenage girl who was sold off by her parents to a rich Zamindaar, who abused her in every possible way. Instead of breaking down, she fought with the evil customs that still exists in our society and inspired other women as well.

Bharti (Baba Aiso Varr Dhoondo):

Bharti was never the beautiful protagonist of television. As she was a dwarf. But unapologetic about her physical appearance, this brave and educated woman faced the challenges of life in a dignified manner. Though there were some low moments in her life, she taught us to live gracefully.

Saloni (Saat Phere - Saloni Ka Safar)

Our society has always been biased towards dark complexioned girls and Saloni was one of them. The show wonderfully depicted a serious issue in our society through Saloni’s journey. But this lady proved to be strong enough to face everything and was never concerned about her skin tone.

Apart from these reel life characters, we believe our readers are also strong enough, who are facing life’s hardship everyday and at the same time enjoying the life to the fullest. We wish each of them a Happy Women’s Day!