8 iconic characters on TV created by Ektaa Kapoor

Dr. Ishita Iyer Bhalla (Yeh Hai Mohabbatein)

Ishita broke several stereotypes. As a dentist who marries a CEO to provide a mother’s love to his daughter, Ishita’s character dealt with complex themes

Shivanya (Naagin)

The supernatural trendsetter played by Mouni Roy, Shivanya didn`t just become a household name; she birthed an entire genre.

Archana Deshmukh (Pavitra Rishta)

Ankita Lokhande’s Archana brought the focus back to the struggles and aspirations of the lower-middle class.

Kashish Garewal (Kahiin To Hoga)

Aamna Sharif’s Kashish was a breath of fresh air in the early 2000s. She represented the "modern yet traditional" young woman who is sophisticated, and educated

Komolika (Kasautii Zindagii Kay)

Urvashi Dholakia’s Komolika redefined the "vamp" on Indian TV with her signature background score, elaborate bindis, and dramatic hair twirling

Prerna Sharma (Kasautii Zindagii Kay)

Shweta Tiwari’s Prerna was the face of star-crossed romance in India. Prerna’s narrative was driven by her enduring, often tragic love for Anurag Basu.

Tulsi Virani (Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi)

Played by Smriti Irani, Tulsi Virani was more than a character, she was a national institution, the quintessential daughter-in-law of the Virani household

Parvati Agarwal (Kahaani Ghar Ghar Kii)

Sakshi Tanwar’s Parvati Agarwal was the calm, resilient heart of the Agarwal family. Parvati brought a softer, more empathetic touch to the screen