Television’s hottest couples

What makes these on-screen couples so popular with the audience? While some of them have scintillating chemistry, others stand apart for their realistic

Tulsi and Mihir, Arnav and Khushi, Parvati and Om, Prerna and Anurag, Kashish and Sujal, and Armaan and Riddhima are some of the most popular couples we have seen on Indian television. These names are revered by fans, who love these characters even today. Having a popular show is a good thing, but having a popular on-screen couple can take a show to even greater heights. When the fans of a show discuss, analyse, criticise and romanticise about everything an on-screen couple does, you know you have created characters that will never be forgotten.

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Sooraj-Sandhya
Diya Aur Baati Hum’s Sooraj and Sandhya complement each other in every manner possible. It’s this contrast that works and creates chemistry between them. “While she is an educated girl, who understands the world in her own way and uses her education, he has learnt at the knee of experience and is worldly-wise. Their interdependence and eagerness to learn from each other works best for them,” says Anas Rashid, who plays the role of Sooraj.

Ram-Priya
They are as different as chalk and cheese. However, it is their compatibility, trust in each other and their undying love for their families that binds them. Sakshi Tanwar, who plays Priya in Bade Achhe Lagte Hain, says, “At heart, they are similar people. Though they may not agree on certain things, they do respect each other’s space and point of view. Just like the couple-next-door, they are real and relatable.”

Archana-Manav
The audience likes the simplicity and family values of this couple from Pavitra Rishta. They are down-to-earth and always prioritise their family above all else. “Though rich, they live in a chawl, a sign of how grounded and rooted they are, and they want to cultivate the same values in their kids too,” says Hiten Tejwani, who has been playing the role of Manav for two years now.

Anandi-Shiv
These two mature characters work well together due to the understanding and friendship that brought them together. “They handle situations in a mature manner. There’s a lot of trust and love between them, which is the basis of any relationship. These are the endearing qualities that people connect with. Anandi and Shiv are likable and connect as characters,” says Siddharth Shukla, who plays Shiv in Balika Vadhu.

Jethalal-Daya
Jethalal and Daya of Tarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashma have a certain amount of innocence and truth. The slice-of-life situations, clean humour and subtle messages work best for the show and the couple. “They are interesting, funny and are are completely real, unlike a lot of characters on TV. They are transparent in their behaviour, which is what has worked for them,” feels Dilip Joshi, who plays the role of Jethalal in the show.

Naitik-Akshara
Naitik and Akshara are one of the most loved on-screen couples. “Their journey from a young couple discovering each other and finding love has been the highlight of their relationship. That’s the strong point of the show,” feels Karan Mehra, who plays Naitik in Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai. The title of the serial encompasses the depiction of a relationship that has its ups and downs. The way the couple balances work, family and their private life has been woven well.

Aditya-Pankhuri
While other shows might rely on melodrama, Aditya and Pankhuri from Pyaar Ka Dard Hai have realistic chemistry. “They are not a conventional protective or possessive couple. They are from different backgrounds with contrasting takes on love and relationships. Their love originated from friendship. None of them play to the gallery, which I think works for this couple,” says Nakuul Mehta, who plays Aditya in the show.