A reincarnation drama where a princess from the 18th century takes revenge on the descendants of her murderers.
These serials turned the 8:00 PM wind-down time into a family gathering.
8. Anandham One of the earliest and most successful serials on the channel. It dealt with the trials and tribulations of a joint family. It ran for a significant number of episodes and set the template for emotional storytelling on Vijay TV.
9. Lakshmi A story revolving around the trials of a woman named Lakshmi, this serial was a staple in many households. It explored themes of sacrifice and familial duty.
10. Malargal A popular afternoon soap that focused on women-centric issues and family bonding.
| Serial Name | Lead Cast | Notes | |-------------|-----------|-------| | Kolangal | Shobana, Sivakumar | A landmark serial about two sisters-in-law; ran for several years. | | Malargal | Devayani, Riyaz Khan | Romance and family rivalry set against a college backdrop. | | Avargal | Various | Anthology-style stories about urban couples. | | Sindhu Bhairavi | Radhika Sarathkumar | Music-based family saga. | | Metti Oli | S. S. Chandran, Sowmya | Office and home life of a middle-class family; very realistic. |
A massive hit that ran for over 1,500 episodes. It centered on two sisters-in-law, Nandini (positive) and Kavya (negative), fighting for control of a joint family.
Vijay TV (now Star Vijay) has been a pioneer in Tamil television since its inception in 1994, known for introducing fresh storytelling and high production values
. Below is a comprehensive list of notable old serials, categorized by genre and impact. 1. Cult Classic Romances
These shows redefined young adult and romantic dramas in Tamil television. Kana Kaanum Kaalangal (2006–2009):
The first major school-based drama in Tamil TV that became a massive hit among teenagers. Kadhalikka Neramillai (2007–2008):
Famous for its iconic title track and modern approach to romance. Kalyanam Mudhal Kadhal Varai (2014–2017):
A popular urban romance focusing on the lives of Priya and Arjun. Saravanan Meenatchi (2011–2018):
One of the longest-running and most successful romantic franchises, spanning three seasons with different leads. 2. Landmark Family Dramas
These serials captured the traditional and evolving dynamics of Tamil households. Deivam Thandha Veedu (2013–2017):
A long-running family drama centered on the character Seetha and her challenges in a large household. (2013–2015):
A unique "workplace drama" that focused on the professional and personal lives of employees in an office setting. Pirivom Santhippom (2011–2013): A touching story about the bond between two sisters. Eeramana Rojave (2018–2021):
A high-drama series involving a forced marriage after a family tragedy. 3. Experimental & Genre-Based Shows
Vijay TV was known for moving away from the typical "mother-in-law vs. daughter-in-law" tropes. Lollu Sabha (2003–2008):
A legendary spoof comedy series that parodied famous Tamil movies and launched the careers of stars like Santhanam. (2012–2013):
A classroom-based drama focusing on students of the 7th standard. (2007–2009):
A rural-based drama that explored village politics and family ties. Thayumanavan (2013–2014):
A rare drama focusing on the relationship between a single father and his five daughters. 4. Major Dubbed Successes vijay tv old serials list
The channel also introduced high-budget North Indian mythological and historical dramas to Tamil audiences. Mahabharatham (2013–2014):
A visually stunning retelling of the epic that gained immense popularity in Tamil Nadu. En Kanavan En Thozhan (2012–2017): The Tamil version of Diya Aur Baati Hum , which ran for several years. Chandra Nandini (2016–2017): A historical drama about Emperor Chandragupta Maurya. Quick Reference Table: Long-Running Series Serial Name Original Run Notable Lead/Theme Lollu Sabha 2003–2008 Comedy Spoof Kana Kaanum Kaalangal 2006–2009 School Life Saravanan Meenatchi 2011–2018 Romance/Family Deivam Thandha Veedu 2013–2017 Family Drama 2013–2015 Workplace Drama where to watch these classic episodes online?
Vijay TV (now Star Vijay) has a long history of producing experimental and trend-setting Tamil television content. Since its rebranding by Star India in 2001, the channel has shifted from traditional family melodramas to youth-centric dramas and path-breaking reality shows. Top-Rated Classic Serials
These series are widely considered cult classics from the 2000s and early 2010s:
The Early Era: Dubbed Hits and Youth Classics (Late 90s - 2000s)
In its early days, Vijay TV became a favorite among 90s kids by telecasting popular dubbed international and Hindi shows, which brought a fresh vibe compared to other regional channels. Kana Kaanum Kaalangal
: A cult classic that followed the lives of school and college students. It was revolutionary for its time and launched the careers of many current stars. Maya Machindra
: High-fantasy and adventure shows that captured the imagination of younger audiences. Shakalaka Boom Boom Small Wonder
: Popular dubbed series that defined the childhood of many Tamil viewers. Kadhalikka Neramillai
: A modern romantic series that stood out for its high production values and youthful storytelling. The 2010s: Family Dramas and Experimental Stories
As the channel matured, it shifted toward unique family-centric stories that often tackled social themes or emotional personal journeys. Saravanan Meenatchi
: One of the longest-running and most successful romantic dramas, spanning multiple "seasons" with different lead pairs. Deivam Thandha Veedu : A popular family drama based on the Hindi serial Saath Nibhaana Saathiya Mouna Raagam
: A touching story about a young girl, Sakthi, searching for her father while dealing with her passion for music.
: A rare workplace-themed drama that focused on the professional and romantic lives of IT employees, which was a major hit among urban audiences. Pagal Nilavu : A sequel/spin-off of Andal Azhagar , focusing on family rivalries and romance. The Mythological Wave
Vijay TV also saw massive success with high-budget mythological shows, many of which were dubbed from Hindi but became household names in Tamil Nadu: Mahabharatham
: The dubbed version of Siddharth Kumar Tewary’s epic series became a massive TRP generator. Seedhaiyin Raaman : A retelling of the Ramayana from Sita's perspective. En Kanavan En Thozhan : A dubbed family drama ( Diya Aur Baati Hum ) that ran for years. Evolution into Reality-Based Entertainment
The channel eventually transitioned its focus heavily toward reality shows like Super Singer Jodi No. 1 Kalakka Povathu Yaaru
, which often took the prime-time spotlight away from traditional serials. Shows like Bigg Boss Tamil
further shifted the audience's interest toward non-scripted entertainment. Quick List of Notable Old Serials Serial Name Kana Kaanum Kaalangal School/Youth School life and friendship Saravanan Meenatchi Long-distance love and family IT office culture and romance Mouna Raagam Musical Drama A daughter's search for her father Family Drama A servant girl marrying into a wealthy family Pandian Stores Brotherhood and family unity specific year of a particular actor's serials on Vijay TV?
These shows often defined the channel's identity in the mid-2000s and early 2010s, focusing on friendship and modern love. Kana Kaanum Kaalangal
(2006–2009): The first Tamil serial to focus exclusively on school life, exploring student friendships, crushes, and classroom rivalries. Kadhalikka Neramillai
(2007–2008): A highly popular romantic drama starring Prajin and Chandra Lakshman as professionals navigating love. Saravanan Meenatchi A reincarnation drama where a princess from the
(2011–2018): A multi-generational rom-com that ran for three seasons, becoming a hallmark of the channel's romantic programming.
(2009–2010): Centered on three friends—Jana, Adi, and Jeeva—entering the adult world and experiencing first love. Popular Family Soaps & Dramas
Vijay TV's family dramas are known for their high production value and relatable storylines.
Star Vijay (formerly Vijay TV) has a rich history of broadcasting diverse and influential content, ranging from school-life dramas and high-stakes courtroom thrillers to groundbreaking reality shows. For those looking to revisit the channel's "golden era," the following is a comprehensive guide to iconic old serials and programs that defined Tamil television from the early 2000s through the 2010s. The Foundations: Early 2000s Classics
In its early years, Vijay TV established a reputation for experimental and high-quality storytelling that differed from the standard "mega serial" format. Agni Satchi (2001–2002) : An early drama that explored complex family dynamics. (2001–2002)
: One of the channel's first major hits, this family drama became so popular it was later exported to international markets. Kavyanjali (2001–2002)
: A sentimental drama centered on the lives and sacrifices of two central characters. Iconic Youth & School Dramas
Vijay TV carved a unique niche by focusing on student life, a theme rarely touched by other major networks at the time. Kana Kaanum Kaalangal (2006–2009)
: Widely considered a pioneer in the "school-based" genre, this serial focused on the friendships, rivalries, and first loves of high school students. It remains a nostalgic favourite for many who grew up in the late 2000s. (2012–2013)
: A follow-up to the success of student-centric themes, focusing on a specific classroom and the varied backgrounds of its students. Kallikattu Pallikoodam (2009–2010)
: Set in a rural village in Theni, this serial focused on the importance of discipline and education in a village school. Popular Romantic & Family Sagas
Many of the channel's most successful serials revolved around unconventional romance or modern family struggles. Saravanan Meenatchi (2011–2018)
: This multi-season romantic drama is one of the longest-running and most beloved series on the network. It followed the love story of its titular characters through various generations and family settings. Kadhalikka Neramillai (2007–2008)
: A modern love story that was praised for its production quality and urban appeal. (2013–2015)
: A fresh take on Tamil television, this serial focused on the professional and personal lives of employees in a modern corporate setting. Kalyanam Mudhal Kadhal Varai (2014–2017)
: A romantic drama centered on two individuals who marry for the sake of a child, eventually finding love. Deivam Thandha Veedu (2013–2017) : A popular remake (of the Hindi serial Saath Nibhaana Saathiya
) that explored the values and conflicts within a large joint family. Genre-Defying & Experimental Shows All Shows of Vijay TV - IMDb
These dramas played a major role in establishing the channel's identity as a provider of differentiated content compared to traditional family soaps. Kana Kaanum Kaalangal (2006–2009):
The first Tamil serial to focus entirely on school life, friendships, and adolescent struggles. It remains a cult favorite and was recently rebooted for OTT platforms. Saravanan Meenatchi (2011–2018):
One of the longest-running and most successful romantic dramas in Tamil television. It spanned multiple "seasons" with different lead pairs, starting with Senthil Kumar and Sreeja Chandran. (2013–2015):
A popular workplace drama focusing on the professional and personal lives of IT employees, starring Karthik Raj and Shruthi Raj. Kadhalikka Neramillai (2007–2008):
A romantic drama known for its high production values and hit title song, starring Prajin and Chandra Lakshman. (2012–2013): A successor in spirit to Kana Kaanum Kaalangal Vijay TV, launched in 1994, was originally known
, this series followed the lives of a group of students in a 7th-grade classroom. Lollu Sabha (2004–2007):
A legendary spoof series that parodied popular Tamil films. It served as the launchpad for several top film actors, including Santhanam. Popular Reality & Non-Fiction Shows
Vijay TV is widely regarded as a pioneer in the Tamil reality show format.
Title: The Kalaignar TV Effect and the Rise of the ‘Super Singer’: A Critical Retrospective of Vijay TV’s Serials and Programming
Abstract
This paper explores the transformative role of Star Vijay (Vijay TV) in the Tamil television landscape, specifically focusing on its early serialization and non-fiction programming. While contemporaries like Sun TV focused on traditional family dramas and sentimental soaps, Vijay TV carved a distinct niche through urban-centric narratives, reality competition franchises, and the strategic revitalization of dubbed content. By analyzing the "old serials list" not merely as a catalog of titles but as a sociological timeline, this paper argues that Vijay TV successfully redefined Tamil television aesthetics, shifting the paradigm from rural melodrama to urban aspiration and global Tamil identity.
1. Introduction: The Churn of the Idiot Box
The Tamil television industry of the late 1990s and early 2000s was dominated by a singular aesthetic: the "mega serial." Characterized by elongated plotlines, stoic matriarchs, and a focus on joint family dynamics, this era was the stronghold of Sun TV. Into this saturated market entered Star Vijay. Initially a struggling channel, it underwent a rebranding that would eventually challenge the hegemony of established players.
To understand the significance of Vijay TV’s old serials, one must contextualize them against the "Sun TV template." Where competitors emphasized tradition and sacrifice, Vijay TV introduced themes of ambition, modern romance, and individual agency. This paper categorizes the channel’s early success into three distinct pillars: The Reality Revolution, The Urban Sitcom, and The Dubbed Phenomenon.
2. The Reality Revolution: Deconstructing the 'Serial' Format
While fiction serials were the bread and butter of television, Vijay TV’s most enduring "serial" was arguably a non-fiction show: Super Singer.
Launched in 2006, Super Singer did not merely telecast a competition; it serialized the lives of ordinary middle-class youth. It borrowed the narrative structure of a soap opera—conflict, elimination, emotional backstories, and character arcs—but applied it to real life. This shift was pivotal. It allowed viewers to invest in "characters" who were relatable peers rather than fictional idealizations.
Similarly, Kalakka Povathu Yaaru democratized entertainment. While traditional serials relied on established directors and actors, this platform turned comedians into household names. The show served as a breeding ground for talent that would eventually populate the very fiction serials the channel produced, creating a self-sustaining ecosystem of stardom.
3. The Fiction Archive: Urbanity and Individualism
When analyzing the list of old Vijay TV fiction serials, a distinct thematic departure from the industry norm becomes evident.
3.1 The Rise of the Sitcom: Saravanan Meenatchi Perhaps the most defining fiction property of the channel was Saravanan Meenatchi. Unlike the heavy, tear-jerker soaps of the time, this serial was a romantic dramedy set in a semi-urban backdrop. It broke the fourth wall of viewer expectation by allowing characters to be flawed, funny, and youthful. It catered to a demographic often ignored by Tamil soaps: the college student and the young professional. The show’s longevity
For a nostalgic post that will resonate with any 90s or 2000s kid, focus on the "Golden Era" of Vijay TV before reality shows took over. You can use this curated list to spark engagement by asking followers to vote for their favorite. The Ultimate Vijay TV Nostalgia List Classic 2000s School & Youth Hits
Kana Kaanum Kaalangal (2006–2009): The undisputed king of high school dramas that defined friendship and crushes for a generation.
Kadhalikka Neramillai (2007–2008): Famous for its iconic title track and the chemistry between Prajin and Chandra.
7C (2012–2013): A successor to the school-drama throne that captured middle-school life. Fan-Favorite Family Dramas
Vijay TV, launched in 1994, was originally known for its youthful, innovative content. Below is a categorized list of memorable old serials from the channel’s earlier years.