From ‘Tulsi in Kyunki...’ to Sona in ‘Kuch Rang...’: Evolution of TV bahus over the years

Television industry has always grown with time, so have the characters, plots and the other elements that are associated with it. From the sari clad bahus with veils on their faces to outgoing and modern daughter-in-laws, Television’s women are now setting trends on the small screen. They are now stronger and bolder. From Tulsi Virani of Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi to Sonakshi in Kuch Rang Pyaar ke Aise Bhi and Anika from Ishqbaaz, here is how TV actresses have evolved over the years.

TV actress turned politician, Smriti Irani started her career as a model-actress but it was her character Tulsi in ‘Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi’ which won many a hearts as an ideal daughter in-law. The show brought her utmost fame and her on screen character was much-loved and appreciated by the audience. So much that even after so many years since the show ended, Smriti has become synonymous to Tulsi. She was always seen in heavily embroidered saris with ethnic jewellery and a traditional hair up-do.

Sakshi played the lead role of Parvati Agarwal in this Balaji Telefilms’ daily soap. The show gave her huge recognition and people started recognising her by her onscreen name. She portrayed a strong character which was liked by most viewers. Having been just 27 then, she had to wear layers of make-up with her saris and wasn't ever seen flaunting her tassels. Instead, she would always make a bun with her outfits.

Shweta Tiwari's character Prerna Bajaj from Kasautii Zindagii Kay was always seen dressed us as a ‘sanskari bahu’ in ethnic wear. All she did on screen was to look after her kids, her family and in-laws. We don't know if they ever considered stepping out of their house and working. Times have now changed and we have actresses who have actually taken up roles of working wives, of bahus who are running families and a lot more.

Erica Fernandes as Sonakshi in Kuch Rang Pyaar Ke Aise Bhi: Erica Fernandes has brought a revolution on the small screen by getting into the shoes of a working wife, who is also running her family on her own. He strong character has made many fall in love with her. Also, we are drooling over her western style and the hair cut. She does not look like a mother on screen at all and we love that about her character.

Jennifer Winget in Beyhadh: Maya aka Jennifer has always managed to go against all odds to get the love of her life on the show Beyhadh. She has played a bold role on the show, who is a successful businesswoman at the same time. One thing that we adore the most about her is her choice of clothes. She can be a synonym of perfection when on screen. Maya is nowhere close to being a typical on screen bahu, whom we have witnessed for ages now.

Drashti Dhami aka ‘Gayatri’: Set in British Raj, Drashti Dhami plays ‘Gayatri’, a simple girl whose life changes after getting married into the royal family in Zee TV’s ‘Ek Tha Raja, Ek Thi Rani’. Gayatri, who was often seen wearing simple cotton saris before marriage, transformed into elegant young queen by elaborate hairstyle, zari worked lehenga cholis and magnificent accessories.

Shagun in Yeh Hai Mohabbatein: Anita Hassanandani plays the role of protagonist Raman Bhalla's ex-wife on Yeh Hai Mohabbatein. Her dress sense is incomparable. Even though she wears saris, but those are worth drooling over. She has made a style statement in the industry and fans are gaga over her styling. Once the main antagonist, her character's traits have often changed with time.