This 39-year-old Doordarshan serial has higher IMD rating than Panchayat, Mirzapur, Family Man, became superhit when released, name is…, not Mahabharat, Ramayan

The world of television is incredible diverse, comprising everything from animated shows to daily soaps and more. While TV shows have long been a source of entertainment, many also offer valuable knowledge. Some serials not only entertain but also deliver meaningful life lessons and wisdom. A perfect example of such show is Malgudi Days.

Malgudi Days is one of the most cherished Indian television series that first aired on Doordarshan in 1986. Based on the short stories of renowned author R.K. Narayan, the series is based on the fictional town of Malgudi, capturing the essence of everyday life in South India. Helmed by the late Shankar Nag, the show starred many renowned actors including Girish Karnad, B Jayashree, and Deven Bhojani among others. Each episode of the show is celebrated for its simple yet profound storytelling, relatable characters, and the nostalgic portrayal of Indian society.

Malgudi Days was filmed in Agumbe, Karnataka, and featured music composed by L. Vaidyanathan, with illustrations by R.K. Laxman, Narayan’s brother. Its authentic storytelling and relatable portrayal of rural life captivated audiences hearts and became a classic show in Indian television’s history.

 

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There was tons of hard work and dedication behind the show’s making. Art director, John Devaraj, completely transformed village of Agumbe into Malgudi. Reportedly, donkeys were purchased from Shimoga, while elephants were brought from Bengaluru. Moreover, makers borrowed money from their friends for other logistical reasons. The set was then finally ready, looking perfect in every which way.

Even today, Malgdi Days hold a special place in the hearts of viewers. Originally released in both English and Hindi, the series spanned 54 episodes over four seasons. In 2006, it was revived with 15 new episodes directed by Kavitha Lankesh. With an impressive IMDb rating of 9.4, Malgudi Days surpasses many of today’s popular OTT hits like Mirzapur, Panchayat, The Family Man, and others.

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