One of the greatest inventions for the entertainment industry, television, has become a staple in households—the larger and smarter the TV, the better. OTT platforms like Netflix are our main source of entertainment. However, some shows and movies came before the era of Netflix and still hold a special place in people’s hearts. This article discusses five such greatly-admired TV shows that were originally aired on the TV sets in the homes of Bangladesh.

Kothao Keu Nei
Kothao Keu Nei is a popular TV series in Bangladesh even today, regardless of how old it is. First aired on the local TV channels back in 1993, the series is about three gangster friends. The story was written by Humayun Ahmed and portrayed the trials and tribulations of Baker Bhai, Mojnu, and Bodi. Kothao Keu Nei gained its popularity, and the character of Baker Bhai was very well-loved by the audience. The story of a bad character with a strong exterior but a soft corner for the weak and helpless is seldom appreciated in the drama genre. The show ended in 1994 with a teeth-clenching and tear-shedding twist. It was re-aired during the 2020 lockdown.

Bohubrihi
“Bohubrihi” literally signifies the multiple dimensions of things. The TV series of the same name is one of the top TV shows in Bangladesh even today. The story of this show surrounds the complexity and mystery of life. Bohubrihi is yet another masterpiece by the famous screenwriter, author, and filmmaker, Humayun Ahmed. The cast of this well-received series included Abul Hayat, who donned the character of a wealthy family man, Mr. Sobhan, and Asaduzzaman Noor, who played Mr. Sobhan’s tenant, Mr. Anis. A book was later adapted based on the TV series, and it is also one of the few series that was aired again later in 2020.

Aaj Robibar
Aaj Robibar is a classic television show that was initially aired in Bangladesh in the late ’90s. A dramedy series, Aaj Robibar is based on a household full of people with varied traits. The story includes more than one love triangle, and in pursuit of love, drama ensues. The story includes a grandfather, his three sons, two granddaughters, a house help, and a tenant. One of the granddaughters is also the introducer and the narrator of the whole story. The series was also aired on Indian television in 2017 and is currently available on YouTube for people to enjoy.

Sisimpur
Sisimpur is a top TV show in Bangladesh for kids. For reference, it is the local version of the famous international show Sesame Street. The series was originally produced in the early 2000s but the first episode aired as recently as 2019. The series airs new episodes every Friday and is considered a Bangladeshi TV favorite. Sisimpur was also featured in a documentary titled The World According to Sesame Street.

Songsoptok
A drama series that lasted for only a single season, Songsoptok is also one of Bangladesh’s most beloved TV serials. Based on a book of the same name, the filming of the series started in 1971. However, they had to pause the show’s filming because of the Liberation War and could only resume it by 1988. It is one of the oldest and most famous black and white TV series in Bangladesh.