A Painstaking Journey Through B.R. Chopra's Mahabharata: Then and Now

B.R. Chopra's adaptation of the ancient Indian epic, Mahabharata, aired from 2 October 1988 to 24 June 1990, marking a significant milestone in Indian television history. With its rich narrative, captivating characters, and the magic of B.R. Chopra's storytelling, the show continues to be a beloved classic among many. This article delves into the characters of Mahabharata as they appeared during the series' run and how their lives have evolved since then.

The Cast of B.R. Chopra's Mahabharata

Nitish Bhardwaj as Krishna

Bhardwaj's portrayal of Lord Krishna in the 1988 Mahabharata remains one of the most celebrated in the series. His confidence and charm made Krishna not only a formidable character but also an endearing one for the audience. Beyond the series, Bhardwaj has been a versatile actor in Bollywood, directing, and writing screenplays. He is also a former member of India's Lok Sabha, showcasing his multifaceted talent and political involvement.

Roopa Ganguly as Draupadi

Ganguly's role as Draupadi has earned her praise for her powerful yet nuanced performance. Her last notable appearance was in the 2009 TV series Agle Janam Mohe Bitiya Hi Kijo, where she again portrayed a strong female character. With such a commanding presence, Ganguly continues to be a respected actress in the Indian film industry.

Puneet Issar as Duryodhan

Our Duryodhan, played by Puneet Issar, is perhaps one of the most recognizable characters from the series. Since then, Issar has been in many popular TV shows, including the Bigg Boss reality show. This experience has not only enhanced his acting skills but has also given him a platform to connect with a new audience.

Mukesh Khanna as Bhishma

Khanna, more popular as Shaktimaan from the popular series, took on the role of Bhishma in Mahabharata. He has continued his acting career on TV, appearing in shows like Pyaar Ka Dard Hai Meetha Meetha. His dynamic on-screen character of Bhishma has left a lasting impression on viewers, and he has not lost his appeal in the industry.

Gajendra Chouhan as Yudhisthira

Yudhisthira's role was one of Gajendra Chouhan's defining moments, as this was his first role in a major series. Since then, he has been a prolific actor with over 150 films and 600 TV serials to his credit. Chouhan was last seen in the TV show Adaalat, demonstrating his enduring relevance in the Indian film and television industry.

Pankaj Dheer as Karna

Dheer's portrayal of Karna was characterized by its depth and complexity, making this role a critical part of the character's evolution in the series. His recent ventures into acting schools and role development further showcase his contribution to the acting fraternity.

Praveen Kumar as Bhima

Praveen Kumar, a versatile athlete in the field of sports, brought immense physical strength and emotion into the role of Bhima. After acting in Mahabharata, Kumar successfully transitioned back into sports. His representation as Bhima was powerful and unforgettable, reflecting his continued presence in the Indian sports circuit.

Surendra Pal as Dronacharya

Pal's role as Dronacharya was another significant part of the series. Since then, he has appeared in several popular TV shows, including Devnon Ka Dev…Mahadev. His versatility as an actor has been widely acknowledged, making him a regular presence on television.

Gufi Pantlal as Shakuni

As Shakuni, Pantlal's portrayal was one of the most memorable and hated characters in Mahabharata. Despite his negative portrayal, his role continues to be referenced by fans. Pantlal was last seen in the 2013 TV series Maharana Pratap, highlighting his continued influence in the Indian television industry.

Firoz Khan as Arjuna

Firoz Khan's Arjuna was so well-loved that he actually changed his name to Arjun post the series. This dedication to his character speaks volumes about the depth of his portrayal. Firoz Khan continued to challenge himself with various roles and ventures, including featuring in Yamala Pagala Deewana 2.

Kiran Juneja as Ganga

Juneja, known for her character roles, played the maternal figure of Ganga. She has since had a successful career in film and television, often taking on pivotal and complex roles.

Raj Babbar as King Bharat

As the renowned actor and politician, Raj Babbar portrayed King Bharat. Raj Babbar's dynamic range as an actor and his political activism have made him a widely respected figure in the Indian entertainment industry.

Girija Shankar as Dhritrashtra

Shankar, involved in directorial ventures, brought wisdom and charisma to the role of Dhritrashtra. His continued involvement in the film industry demonstrates his long-lasting impact and influence on the Indian cinema.

Renuka Israni as Gandhari

Israni, seen in the role of Gandhari, has had a flourishing career in television. Her recent portrayal of Sakshi Tanwar's mother in Bade Achche Lagte Hain shows her versatility and continued success in the entertainment industry.

Daara Singh as Hanuman

The iconic character of Hanuman, immortalized by Daara Singh, will continue to be cherished by fans for generations. Sadly, he has passed away, but his legacy lives on in the hearts of many who watched the series.

The title song, which featured verses from the Bhagavad Gita, was rendered by the legendary singer Mahendra Kapoor. This musical masterpiece not only captured the essence of the epic but also made a lasting impact on the listeners.

The series was dubbed into Tamil, Telugu, and even Indonesian languages in the early 1990s, further cementing its global appeal. The total cost of producing the series was around 9 crore, demonstrating the scale and breadth of the production.

These characters of Mahabharata have left an indelible mark on the hearts of viewers, and their legacies continue to live on in the Indian film and television industry. As the television landscape continues to evolve, these iconic performances serve as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and the timeless appeal of the Mahabharata.