Indian television has become a hub for enduring reality shows that are now part of everyday conversations. Programs such as Roadies, Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa, and Indian Idol have gained immense popularity thanks to their innovative concepts, thrilling tasks, and celebrity guests.
These long-standing shows have not only entertained millions but have also launched numerous careers. Whether it’s adventurous journeys, spectacular dance routines, or uncovering new singing talents, these iconic series remain at the forefront of TV entertainment, captivating audiences nationwide.
Longest-Running Reality Shows on Indian Television
The following is the list of longest-running reality shows on Indian Television:
Bigg Boss
Bigg Boss, an Indian reality TV series inspired by the Dutch show Big Brother, debuted in Hindi in 2006 and has since expanded to include versions in Kannada, Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, Marathi, and Malayalam.
The program features contestants known as “housemates” who live in a closed-off house, under constant surveillance from cameras and microphones, with no access to the outside world. Over the years, Bigg Boss has produced 17 seasons and introduced 2 online exclusive seasons (OTT), with the third OTT season set to premiere on June 21.
Salman Khan has primarily hosted the show, although various Bollywood celebrities such as Karan Johar, Farah Khan, Sanjay Dutt, Amitabh Bachchan, Shilpa Shetty Kundra, and Arshad Warsi have hosted different seasons. Anil Kapoor will host the upcoming Bigg Boss OTT Season 3.
Also Read: Bigg Boss OTT 3, Anil Kapoor Likely to Replace Salman Khan as Show Host
Khatron Ke Khiladi
Khatron Ke Khiladi, which translates to “Players of Danger,” is a Hindi reality series centered around daring stunts. Adapted from Fear Factor, the show features celebrities facing a variety of challenging tasks.
Originally known as Fear Factor India when it premiered on Sony TV in 2008, it later rebranded as Fear Factor: Khatron Ke Khiladi on Colors TV starting July 21, 2008.
The show has been hosted by well-known personalities such as Akshay Kumar, Priyanka Chopra, Arjun Kapoor, and primarily Rohit Shetty. It’s famous for its thrilling stunts, often set in stunning international locations like South Africa, Brazil, Argentina, Spain, Bulgaria, and Romania.
Also Read: Khatron Ke Khiladi 14 Confirmed Contestants List, Check Here
Splitsvilla
MTV Splitsvilla, a popular Indian reality series launched in 2008, stands out as one of the country’s earliest dating shows. The format brings together both girls and boys who engage in various challenges and situations aimed at sparking romantic connections.
The show’s appeal lies in the drama and conflicts that unfold among its contestants. Over the years, MTV Splitsvilla has been hosted by a diverse lineup of celebrities including Raghu and Rajiv, Ranvijay Singha, Nikhil Chinappa, Sunny Leone, Arjun Bijlani, and Tarun Virwani.
Also Read: Splitsvilla 15 Release Date, Theme, Host, Where to Watch?
Roadies
MTV Roadies, a popular Indian reality series aimed at youth, debuted on August 15, 2003, and is now available for streaming on platforms like Voot and JioCinema.
The show revolves around contestants known as Roadies, who embark on journeys to various locations and engage in challenges testing their physical, social, and mental abilities.
The current season, MTV Roadies: Karam Ya Kaand, is hosted by Sonu Sood, marking its 19th year on air.
Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa
Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa, an Indian Hindi-language reality TV series, is a local adaptation of BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing and ABC’s Dancing with the Stars. It first aired in 2006 on Sony TV and has since become one of India’s most beloved and enduring reality shows, appealing to a wide audience.
Celebrities are paired with professional dancers on the show, competing in various dance styles. Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa has firmly established itself as a major entertainment platform in India.
As of the latest updates, the show has successfully completed 11 seasons. The 11th season featured judges Malaika Arora, Arshad Warsi, and Farah Khan, and was hosted by Ritwik Dhanjani and Gauahar Khan.
Also Read: Manisha Rani Wins Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa 11, Earns ₹30 Lakh
Indian Idol
Indian Idol, inspired by the Pop Idol format, is a prominent music competition TV franchise in India that premiered in 2004. It has since aired 16 seasons, making it one of the country’s longest-standing reality shows.
Produced in Mumbai, Maharashtra, Indian Idol serves as a vital platform for aspiring singers to showcase their talents on a national scale. The show has seen the completion of 16 successful seasons.
Several notable singers like Monali Thakur, Antara Mitra, Neha Kakkar, Abhijeet Sawant, and Sreerama Chandra participated in Indian Idol, launching successful singing careers thereafter.
Kaun Banega Crorepati
Kaun Banega Crorepati (KBC) is a popular Indian Hindi-language TV game show, adapted from the global Who Wants to Be a Millionaire? franchise. It first aired in July 2000 on Star Plus, with legendary actor Amitabh Bachchan as its host. Today, the show continues to broadcast on Sony TV.
KBC has captured the hearts of Indian audiences with its engaging format, offering contestants the chance to win substantial sums of money by answering a series of questions. Over the past two decades, it has become a cultural phenomenon, firmly establishing itself as a cornerstone of Indian television.
Also Read: Amitabh Bachchan Bids Farewell to ‘Kaun Banega Crorepati 15’, Fans React
India’s Got Talent
India’s Got Talent, part of the worldwide Got Talent franchise, showcases a wide range of performers from across India, spanning singers, dancers, magicians, comedians, and talents of all ages.
Originally broadcast on Colors TV until its 8th season, the show moved to Sony Entertainment Television starting from its 9th season. It has consistently been a cornerstone of Indian television, celebrated for its diverse showcase of talent and for setting numerous Guinness World Records through its contestants’ remarkable performances.
Throughout its seasons, India’s Got Talent has been hosted by popular personalities like Malaika Arora, Karan Johar, and Kirron Kher.
Sa Re Ga Ma Pa
Sa Re Ga Ma Pa, the iconic Indian musical reality TV show, debuted on Zee TV in 1995 and stands as the longest-running singing reality show in the country.
Hosted by esteemed personalities like Sonu Nigam and Shaan, it has played a crucial role in identifying and nurturing new musical talents.
The show derives its name from the first five notes (swaras) of the octave in classical Indian music. In its most recent season, the judging panel featured Himesh Reshammiya, Neeti Mohan, and Anu Malik.
Longest-Running Reality Shows on Indian Television FAQs
Q.1. What is the longest-running reality show in India?
Ans. Indian Idol, debuting in 2004, holds the title with 16 successful seasons showcasing top singing talents.
Q.2. Who hosts Bigg Boss?
Ans. Salman Khan has been the primary host, with other Bollywood stars hosting different seasons.
Q.3. Which show features daring stunts?
Ans. Khatron Ke Khiladi, adapted from Fear Factor, presents celebrities in thrilling challenges across global locales.
Q.4. What is the format of Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa?
Ans. It pairs celebrities with professional dancers, competing in various dance styles.
Q.5. Where can I watch MTV Roadies?
Ans. MTV Roadies is available for streaming on platforms like Voot and JioCinema.
