No matter how many years pass, the memories forged in the golden days of school or college remain etched in our hearts. It's nearly impossible to forget that first friendship, the thrill of bunking classes, or the magic of a first 'Ishq Wala crush.' Regardless of age, a nostalgic glance back at those cherished times can bring a tear to the eye, evoking a deep desire to relive those moments once more. Often, we find solace in movies and series that transport us back to those carefree days. Thankfully, OTT platforms offer a treasure trove of entertaining and emotional series that allow us to revisit the essence of those unforgettable times. Here's a curated list of the top 10 Hindi shows centered around college and school life that deserve a spot on your binge-watching list.
1. Kota Factory: Centered on the lives of JEE aspirants, this show provides an immersive portrayal of the tension and preparation that students undergo in the city of Kota. Every element of the series, from its plotline to the cast selection, is executed with top-notch precision. Adding a unique touch, the series stands out with its black and white theme—a distinctive feature that elevates the viewing experience. Unlike other shows, this one commits to its artistic choice by presenting the entire series in black and white, creating a visually striking and memorable atmosphere. The decision to embrace this monochromatic aesthetic enhances the overall impact, making it a standout feature in the realm of series portraying the challenges faced by students pursuing their dreams in competitive exams.
2. College Romance: True to its name, this show revolves around the friendships and romantic entanglements experienced during college life. While capturing the essence of these relationships, the series does, by nature, incorporate some common tropes that, perhaps, could have been omitted. The first season initially aired on YouTube, and the subsequent season is now accessible on Sony Liv. This narrative unfolds the intricate dynamics of friendships and romantic liaisons in a college setting, providing viewers with a nostalgic trip down memory lane. Despite the inclusion of familiar tropes, the show's transition from an online platform to a mainstream streaming service emphasizes its popularity and the resonance of its themes with a wider audience.
3. What’s Your Status: Going beyond the confines of college romance, this series delves into love at various stages of life. While it may start with a slow build-up, once you become immersed in the storyline, consider your eyes firmly glued to the screen. The show's expansive exploration of love in different life phases adds depth to its narrative, offering a more comprehensive view of romantic relationships. The initial slow pace becomes an asset as it allows for nuanced character development and a richer understanding of the evolving dynamics. Once the series captures your attention, its ability to engage and resonate with viewers becomes increasingly evident, making it a worthwhile and captivating watch.
4. F.L.A.M.E.S: F.L.A.M.E.S takes audiences on a charming and nostalgic journey down memory lane. The series unfolds the endearing story of a young man who finds himself smitten with a new girl at his coaching center. Amidst the hustle and bustle of school and coaching classes, the protagonist embarks on a heartfelt journey to win her affections. The narrative captures the innocence and sweetness of young love, weaving a tale that resonates with viewers on a relatable level. Filled with cute and mushy moments, the series taps into the universal experience of navigating crushes and budding romances during the school days, making it a delightful and heartwarming watch.
5. Laakhon Mein Ek Season 1: Conceived by comedian and former IITian Biswa Kalyan Rath, the first season of Laakhon Mein Ek not only showcases the comedic genius of its creator but also sheds light on the harsh realities of the entrance exam system in Kota. Headlined by Ritwik Sahore, the series strikes a delicate balance between emotional depth and humor. Its narrative, both poignant and amusing, concludes on a haunting note that lingers in the viewer's mind long after the series concludes. With its unique blend of humor and a stark portrayal of the challenges faced by students in the competitive exam landscape, Laakhon Mein Ek stands out as a compelling and memorable watch.
6. Engineering Girls: This series boldly confronts the traditionally male-dominated landscape of engineering by depicting the journey of girls entering an engineering college and challenging the established norms. The stellar cast not only delivers on comical punches that provide moments of levity but also delivers powerful emotional speeches that resonate with the audience. The narrative unfolds as a testament to the resilience and strength of female characters navigating the challenges within the male-dominated system of engineering education. By blending humor with emotional depth, the series not only entertains but also sends a powerful message about breaking gender barriers and empowering women in fields historically dominated by men. It stands as a refreshing and impactful take on gender dynamics in the realm of engineering education.
7. ImMature: Consider this a nostalgia alert! The storyline of this series remarkably mirrors the life story of every Indian kid. Offering a refreshing and distinctive perspective on teenage life, the show benefits from stellar writing and brilliant acting. It captures the essence of adolescence in a way that resonates with viewers, triggering a wave of nostalgia for shared experiences. The series, through its thoughtful narrative and exceptional performances, transports audiences back to the intricacies of teenage years, making it relatable and engaging. It stands as a testament to the universality of growing up, with each episode serving as a delightful trip down memory lane for viewers of all ages.
8. The Reunion: While not strictly a school or college series, this show manages to transport viewers back to the memories of their late teenage years. Centered around the titular characters who reunite, the narrative unfolds as they reflect on their current relationships with former friends and the past they left behind. Through their journey, viewers are given an opportunity to revisit the life they left behind when they started navigating adulthood. The series acts as a poignant exploration of nostalgia, providing a reflective lens on the evolution of friendships and the transitions from youth to adulthood. Despite its departure from traditional school or college settings, it captures the essence of growing up and the enduring impact of past connections.
9. Girls Hostel: "They say life is a complete waste without hostel life," and this series wholeheartedly makes you believe that sentiment. Presented by Girliyapa, Girls Hostel skillfully transports you back to the age of roommates, clandestine stashes of goodies, the unique bonds between seniors and juniors, and the irreplaceable experience of 'hostel life'. Through its narrative, the series captures the camaraderie, challenges, and unforgettable moments that define life in a hostel. It's a nostalgic trip that resonates with anyone who has lived through the shared joys and tribulations of hostel living, making it a delightful and relatable watch for those seeking to revisit the charm of those bygone days.
10. Mismatched: Mismatched is a compelling web series that unfolds a narrative where the pursuit of both love and education faces opposition from societal expectations. The story revolves around a girl with a passion for creating apps, but her parents insist on a more conventional path, suggesting she open a cybercafe after marriage rather than following her dreams. This dichotomy sets the stage for a heartfelt exploration of the clash between individual aspirations and societal norms. The series navigates the challenges of pursuing personal and professional goals in the face of familial expectations, creating a poignant and relatable narrative that resonates with viewers. Mismatched stands out as a wonderful watch, tackling themes of love, education, and societal expectations with both charm and depth.
