From Mouni Roy to Tejasswi Prakash: A look back at the leading ladies of ‘Naagin’ ahead of season 7 release

The wait is finally over. The supernatural saga returns with 'Naagin 7.' Priyanka Chahar Choudhary is the new queen taking the legacy forward. She stars alongside Namik Paul. The show also features a stellar cast including Eisha Singh, Karan Kundrra, and Alice Kaushik. Mark your calendars for the premiere on December 27 at 8 pm on Colors TV. But before we witness this new chapter, let’s look back at the iconic actresses who built this empire from Season 1 to 6.

Mouni Roy launched the franchise as Shivanya in Season 1 opposite Arjun Bijlani. The show immediately topped the TRP charts. She returned in Season 2 as her daughter, Shivangi, alongside Karanvir Bohra. She faced off against the fierce Adaa Khan (Shesha) and the iconic villain Sudha Chandran (Yamini). Mouni established the template for the shape-shifting protagonist. Her classical dance skills and dramatic expressions defined the role. She remains the franchise's most recognizable face.

Surbhi Jyoti took charge in Season 3 as Bela, the Naagrani. She starred opposite Pearl V Puri, who played Mahir. This season achieved the highest-rated finale in the franchise's history. Surbhi played a royal leader rather than just a revenge-seeker. Surbhi was powerfully supported by Anita Hassanandani, who played the loyal yet complex Vishakha, and Rajat Tokas as Vikrant. Rakshanda Khan also played a key role as the antagonist Sumitra. Her chemistry with Pearl drove the storyline for over a year. She successfully broke the mold set by her predecessor.

Season 4, titled ‘Bhagya Ka Zehreela Khel,’ featured Nia Sharma as Brinda. She paired up with Vijayendra Kumeria. Nia played a "Manyata" naagin seeking revenge for her family. The ensemble cast added massive star power with Jasmin Bhasin playing Nayantara and Rashami Desai later joining as Shalaka. Sayantani Ghosh also played a pivotal role as Manyata. This season faced challenges with the 2020 COVID-19 lockdown. The makers ended the storyline abruptly to revamp the series. Despite the short run, Nia brought a modern edge to the character.

Surbhi Chandna completely flipped the script in Season 5. As Bani, the Adi Naagin, she refused to be a shy heroine. She was fiery, outspoken, and chaotic. She paired up with Sharad Malhotra, and their electric "love-hate" dynamic stole the show. The season launched with impactful cameos from Hina Khan and Dheeraj Dhoopar to set the backstory. Mohit Sehgal played the deceptive Jay Mathur, completing the love triangle. She brought a relatable and modern vibe to the world of the supernatural. She proved that a Naagin could be sassy and funny at the same time.

Tejasswi Prakash stepped into the role of Pratha fresh off her ‘Bigg Boss 15’ victory. She starred alongside Simba Nagpal in Season 6. Tejasswi battled foes played by Maheck Chahal and Urvashi Dholakia, while Sudha Chandran returned to the franchise as a powerful antagonist. This became the franchise's longest-running season, and Tejasswi carried it effortlessly. She played the "Shesh Naagin" with a unique patriotic twist. She fought enemies to save the country. She showcased an incredible range, shifting from a timid girl to a fierce warrior. She proved herself to be the true queen of prime-time television.