Zee TV's longest-running show Kumkum Bhagya to end after 11 years: Inside the ratings slump and final cast

Kumkum Bhagya ends after 11 years amid TRP decline

Last updated:
Lakshana N Palat, Assistant Features Editor
2 MIN READ
Kumkum Bhagya kicked off with Sriti Jha and Shabir Ahluwalia in 2014.
Kumkum Bhagya kicked off with Sriti Jha and Shabir Ahluwalia in 2014.

It all began back in 2014—with the ever-dependable Shabir Ahluwalia and the delightfully earnest Sriti Jha leading the charge. A classic case of opposites attract, a fake marriage (that, of course, turned real), and just the right amount of drama—Kumkum Bhagya had all the ingredients of a hit. And thanks to the undeniable chemistry of its leads, it was a hit.

What followed was a glorious freefall into the wild world of Indian soap tropes: amnesia? Check. Evil people? Obviously. Makeover montages, miraculous recoveries, murder attempts (and actual murders), and villains who simply refused to die? Oh, absolutely. And just when you thought it was over, they would throw in a time leap, a generational twist, or a brand-new face for good measure.

But all good (and extra-long) things must come to an end. After 11 years on air, the longest-running show on Zee TV might finally be wrapping up. According to several Indian outlets quoting insider sources, IWMBuzz reports that Kumkum Bhagya—currently starring Pranali Rathod and Namik Paul—is being pulled due to falling TRPs.

Word is, it’ll be replaced by Ganga Mai Ki Betiyaan, a new family drama from Ravi Dubey and Sargun Mehta’s Dreamiyata Entertainment. The show will feature Amandeep Sidhu, Sheezan Khan, and Shubhangi Latkar in lead roles.

Produced by Ekta Kapoor, Kumkum Bhagya became a staple in countless households, blending romance, revenge, and a surprising amount of resurrection across generations. After Jha and Ahluwalia the spotlight shifted to Mugdha Chaphekar and Krishna Kaul, then to Rachi Sharma and Abrar Qazi, and finally to Pranali Rathod and Namik Paul as the current lead pair. Along the way, stars like Mrunal Thakur, Madhurima Tuli, and Supriya Shukla added depth to the show's sprawling universe.

Lakshana N PalatAssistant Features Editor
Lakshana is an entertainment and lifestyle journalist with over a decade of experience. She covers a wide range of stories—from community and health to mental health and inspiring people features. A passionate K-pop enthusiast, she also enjoys exploring the cultural impact of music and fandoms through her writing.

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