Nostalgia Unlocked: The Best TV Shows from the 90s & 2000s

Before Netflix and YouTube ruled our screens, these TV shows kept us hooked, made us laugh, cry, and dream.

1. Friends (1994–2004)

Six friends. One coffee shop. Endless memories. Friends brought us laughter, tears, and love through ten unforgettable seasons. With relatable characters, iconic quotes, and timeless chemistry, this New York-based sitcom became a global comfort show, making Chandler, Joey, Monica, Ross, Rachel, and Phoebe household names across the world.

2. Shaktimaan (1997–2005)

India’s first superhero, Shaktimaan, was more than fiction—it was a movement. With his spinning transformation and moral lessons, Mukesh Khanna’s character became every child’s hero. The show combined action with ethics, creating a powerful legacy that still echoes through reruns, comic books, and childhood memories of Sunday mornings.

3. The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air (1990–1996)

Will Smith’s breakout role as a West Philly teen in a Bel-Air mansion brought fresh humor and heart. From dance moves to emotional family scenes, this show blended comedy with social commentary. Its stylish 90s vibe and catchy theme song made it a defining sitcom of the decade.

4. CID (1998–2018)

With suspenseful storylines, dramatic dialogues, and iconic characters, CID ruled Indian television for two decades. ACP Pradyuman, Daya, and Abhijeet became legends, especially with the iconic line, “Daya, darwaza tod do!” It wasn’t just a crime show—it was an emotion for every 2000s kid watching Sony TV.

5. Full House (1987–1995)

A widowed father, his three daughters, and a quirky support crew—Full House delivered family warmth wrapped in humor. Set in San Francisco, it taught valuable life lessons with every episode. Whether it was Michelle’s sass or Uncle Jesse’s cool, the show remains an evergreen pick for feel-good TV.

6. Office Office (2001–2004)

Facing corrupt officers and ridiculous red-tapism, Mussadilal’s weekly struggles resonated with every Indian. Office Office hilariously portrayed the flaws of public offices, with Pankaj Kapur’s brilliance leading the satire. With characters like Bhatia and Shukla, the show was not just funny—but painfully real and cleverly reflective of society.

7. The Simpsons (1989–Present)

America’s most dysfunctional animated family has been predicting the future since 1989. The Simpsons offered biting satire, political commentary, and family chaos through Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa, and Maggie. With its signature yellow characters and Springfield setting, it became a pop culture phenomenon spanning over 30 seasons.

8. Dekh Bhai Dekh (1993–1994)

A joint family, endless chaos, and comic timing that’s still unmatched—Dekh Bhai Dekh is one of India’s finest sitcoms. Produced by Jaya Bachchan, it followed the Diwans’ daily drama with a light-hearted lens. Quick-witted dialogues and lovable characters made it a true classic of early Indian TV.

9. That 70s show :

Set in the 70s but loved in the 2000s, this coming-of-age sitcom followed a gang of teens as they explored life, love, and rebellion. Basement hangouts, retro fashion, and hilarious parents made it iconic. That ’70s Show blended nostalgia and youth culture with brilliant humor and heart.

10. Khichdi (2002–2004)

Meet the Parekh family—unapologetically silly, oddly relatable, and endlessly funny. Khichdi redefined Indian sitcoms with its absurd humor and iconic catchphrases. From Praful’s hilarious misunderstandings to Hansa’s legendary “Main kya karu?”, the show’s simplicity, timing, and quirky characters left an imprint that fans still quote today.