18 Years of Bidaai: Writer Bahnishikha Das Reflects on the Journey that Redefined Family Dramas

Eighteen years ago, Sapna Babul Ka… Bidaai first graced Indian television screens, leaving an indelible mark on viewers’ hearts. Today, as the show celebrates its 18th anniversary, Bahnishikha Das, one of its pivotal story writers, looks back with deep nostalgia and gratitude. For her, Bidaai wasn’t just a show; it was a canvas to explore emotions, family bonds, and the nuanced complexities of life.

Bahnishikha served as the story writer during a critical period when the characters of Sadhna and Ragini began to evolve, allowing audiences to truly connect with their journey. “It feels surreal to realize that Bidaai completes 18 years today. I had the honor of writing the story for quite some time during the period when the characters and emotional arcs had truly begun to evolve. The show wasn’t just a television series — it was an emotion that touched millions,” she reflects.

Produced by Rajan Shahi under Director’s Kut Productions, Bidaai premiered in 2007 and quickly became a milestone for Star Plus. Its narrative, revolving around two sisters navigating love, prejudice, and familial expectations, broke conventional tropes. Bahnishikha credits the show’s timeless appeal to its honesty in storytelling. “Every scene was created with the intent to reflect real emotions — whether it was the tenderness between sisters or the unspoken understanding within families. I still remember the discussions, the brainstorming sessions, and the collective excitement we felt while shaping the story. Those moments were pure magic,” she recalls fondly.

Her admiration for Rajan Shahi is evident as she speaks about his vision and leadership. “Rajan ji had a very strong sense of what he wanted the show to communicate. His conviction and eye for emotional detail made all the difference. Working under his banner was a learning experience in itself, and his motivational attitude toward every team member, including me, was incomparable,” she says. Bahnishikha fondly remembers how Rajan would call her early in the morning to encourage her writing, highlighting the nurturing environment that shaped the show’s creative energy.

The supportive channel team also played a crucial role in the show’s journey. Bahnishikha mentions, “The channel team at the time was hugely supportive of me and continues to cheer for me in every success.” This ecosystem of trust, encouragement, and creative freedom allowed Bidaai to become more than a daily drama; it became a cultural touchstone that resonated with viewers across generations.