Anupamaa actor Satya Tiwari on why TV remains a household habit

As World Television Day is observed on November 21, actor Satya Tiwari, known for his work in Anupamaa, looks back on his long-standing connection with television—a medium that shaped his early years and now forms a major part of his professional life.

Satya’s first memories of television come from his childhood, filled with eagerness and routine excitement. He describes himself as a dedicated TV viewer during those days. Shows like Shaktimaan were his favourites, and he clearly remembers rushing home after school to catch every episode on time. For him, these moments created the foundation of his bond with television—something many who grew up in the 90s and early 2000s can easily relate to.

Television’s Evolution Through the Years

As time passed, Satya witnessed television's transformation, both as a viewer and as an actor. He acknowledges how the industry shifted from scheduled, appointment-based viewing to a flexible, on-demand format. With OTT platforms becoming a major part of entertainment consumption, he feels the medium has expanded into new creative spaces, offering a wider range of storytelling and opportunities for performers. According to him, audiences now have greater freedom to choose content, which encourages actors to deliver honest, varied performances across all formats.

Despite these changes, Satya believes that television continues to hold a strong emotional presence in Indian households. He says the sense of routine, familiarity, and togetherness associated with TV still makes it a central part of everyday life. According to him, while digital platforms offer convenience, they do not replace the feeling families experience when they sit together to watch daily episodes.

Television’s Unique Connection With Viewers

Satya shares that television, more than any other medium, creates long-term relationships between viewers and characters. Daily soaps and reality shows, in his view, maintain a strong emotional influence because they become part of people’s daily schedules. He feels the consistent presence of characters, along with relatable storylines, helps viewers develop a connection that is hard to replicate on other platforms.

Even though OTT viewership continues to rise, Satya believes the comfort and familiarity of television keep audiences engaged. For many households, the habit of watching TV together remains an important part of their routine.

When asked which classic shows he would bring back if given the chance, Satya mentions two titles immediately—Chacha Chaudhary and Sarabhai vs Sarabhai. He feels both shows carried a simplicity and charm that provided genuine enjoyment. He also appreciates the performances and writing of Sarabhai vs Sarabhai, stating that he still learns from the show's work