Indian Superheroes: Then and Now
The perk of being a 90s kid is you belong to an era of transition in almost every field be it culture, technology, modernization etc so you had your feet in both the waters and taste of both recipes which makes you the perfect candidate to be a storyteller. I know the craze for Marvel and DC is epic and so do I follow them too but being a 90s kid I am a nostalgic fan as well.
A time when India too had its own superhero with Indian values, culture and a touch of Desi which made them look like next-door people. So why don’t take a rewind to see the evolution and some sort of revolution in the field of Indian superheroes?
India in the 90s was a time when the country was experiencing a new sense of hope and globalisation. With the rise of a distinct Indian pop culture, the children of this era were witness to an undeniable charm. The 90s was also a time when Indian superheroes started to take centre stage. Chacha Chaudhary was the first iconic superhero that gained popularity amongst the comic-reading audience. Published under Raj Comics in 1986, Nagaraj officially marked the beginning of India’s superhero universe. Nagaraj’s storyline was based on Indian mythology and scientific logic. Other popular characters like Super Commando Dhruv, Doga, Parmanu, and Bhokal followed suit under Raj comics
Shaktimaan was India’s most beloved superhero of the 90s. The show delved briefly into Indian mythology and kept its storyline relevant to its young audience while also being culturally relatable. Bollywood attempted to replicate the likes of Marvel and DC releases with superhero films but had only a few successes such as Mr. India (1987).
Today, India is seeing a new rise in vulnerable superheroes. Independent and regional filmmakers have tried their shot at creating superhero films that aren’t entirely out-worldly but tap into the raw vulnerabilities of their heroes and villains, making it a personal and relatable viewing experience. With films like Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota (2018) and Minnal Murali (2021), Krishh, Brahmastra a unique concept of Astraverse like Marvel’s Multiverse, India can look forward to a promising superhero universe.
India’s evolution of homegrown superheroes is a testament to the country’s cultural history and extensive mythology. From the common man superhero to the out-worldly superhero, India’s superheroes have it all. With the rise of vulnerable superheroes, India’s superheroes are becoming more relatable and personal, making for thoughtful entertainers.
Now let’s dive into nostalgia
earlier we talked about Shaktiman and Chacha Chaudhary but there are lots of other tv shows that we have watched in our growing days so without wasting time let’s dive into nostalgia
Top 5 90s Superhero TV Shows In India:
- Shaktimaan (1997-2005): This show is considered to be the most popular superhero show in India. It starred Mukesh Khanna as Shaktimaan, a scientist who gains superpowers after being injected with a serum. Shaktimaan fought against crime and evil, and he also taught children about good values.
- Captain Vyom (1998-2000): This show starred Milind Soman as Captain Vyom, an astronaut who travels to outer space to fight aliens. Captain Vyom was known for his high-tech gadgets and his amazing fighting skills.
- Junior G (1998-1999): This show starred Akashdeep as Junior G, a boy who gets a magical ring from his grandfather. The ring gives Junior G the power to fly and shoot lasers from his eyes.
- Aryamaan – Brahmaand Ka Yodha (1997-1998): This show starred Gaurav Gera as Aryamaan, a young boy who is chosen by the gods to fight evil. Aryamaan had many superpowers, including the ability to fly and shoot lasers from his eyes.
- Hatim (1993-1998): This show is based on the Arabian folktale of Hatim Tai. It starred Faisal Khan as Hatim, a generous and kind-hearted prince who helps people in need. Hatim also had some magical powers, such as the ability to control animals.
These are just a few of the many superhero TV shows that were popular in India in the 90s. These shows entertained and inspired children all over the country, and they continue to be enjoyed by fans of Indian pop culture today.
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