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Audiences don’t care whether a character is male or female; what truly matters are the values they uphold, their integrity, and the impact they leave behind. Viewers gravitated toward personalities who stood for something real, authentic, and inspiring. This year, we watched men on television step beyond traditional stereotypes, bringing depth, vulnerability, strength, humour and heart to their performances. We present the top 30 men who made an impact on television in 2025!
Disclaimer & Eligibility: This list is not based on any kind of voting, popularity or ratings. It is a list presenting 30 of the most impactful men on television for the year. We love and appreciate every artist equally and there are many stars who could not be fitted into the list. The list considers work done on Television only – no OTT projects or music videos are considered. The artist should have at least one core show which appeared on air globally for a minimum of one month (excluding cameos and appearances), and a minimum of ten episodes in the case of a bi-weekly show, for the year. We also do not recommend comparing lists with previous years as each year begins from scratch.
30. Sujay Reu
Shrimad Ramayan concluded this year, but Sujay Reu and his powerful performance as Lord Ram left a lasting impression on viewers. This year, viewers witnessed the final chapters of the Ramayan, and Sujay successfully portrayed Lord Ram’s paternal nature as well as his angst upon separation. The actor cemented himself as a household name with the show, and viewers are waiting to see him again.
29. Ankur Verma
Ankur Verma has proven his skills in the long-running Parineetii which ended towards the latter part of the year. Seen as Rajeev in a complicated love-triangle, the character fought for his true love, and Ankur gave the right kind of energy for the role. His gentle yet powerful demeanour made the character loved by masses, and even after the show’s departure, Ankur’s contribution to the fan-favourite show will certainly be remembered.
28. Zain Imam
Actor Zain Imam captivated hearts this year as Teerth Mittal in Suman Indori. This year, following a leap on the show, the actor was seen as a father too. He carried out the role well and became TV’s favourite ‘Neta Ji.’ The show came to a sound end during the year, but the character and Zain’s time in the role, stayed with viewers for a long time after.
27. Aham Sharma
Sampoorna became one of the hard-hitting social dramas to launch on television this year. It also marked the comeback of Aham Sharma to television, and he was seen in a never-seen-before avatar. The actor was seen playing Dr Aakash Malhotra, a top heart surgeon with a seemingly perfect life, but karma finds its way, and it is discovered he is a sexual assaulter. At the start, it was difficult for many to figure out if the character was innocent or guilty, and gradually his real face came to light. Sharma has done an outstanding job in the dark and twisted role, and his performance has been a strong driving force behind making the show a compelling watch. It was also proven how much the audience missed him on television, and he is definitely an asset to the medium.
26. Abrar Qazi
At the start of the year, Abrar Qazi was seen as Rajvansh in the third generation of Kumkum Bhagya. While the generation came to an end, there was no stopping him this year as he was then seen as Udayveer aka UV in Kabhi Neem Neem Kabhi Shahad Shahad. As a celebrity chef with a complicated past, Abrar succeeded in delivering another good performance which viewers enjoyed.
25. Abhishek Sharma
One of the most consistent shows to receive audience love and interest was Vasudha. Actor Abhishek Sharma left a strong impression on viewers for his portrayal of Devansh on the show, a character who faces many challenges for his love to be accepted. With his intense delivery and warm chemistry with co-star Priya Thakur on the show, Abhishek became one of the most talked about men on television.
24. Mishkat Varma
Ram Bhavan enjoyed a loyal audience this year, and saw Mishkat Varma play the suave Om Ramdas Vajpayee. Om became one of the strong male protagonists on television and was certainly incomplete without Mishkat’s compelling performance. Om was a character with so many shades, and the role gave him the chance to showcase his versatility, and the actor rose to the occasion each time!
23. Arjun Chakrabarty
Noyontara became one of the finest shows and perfectly blended supernatural elements with family drama. Arjun Chakrabarty made his debut on Hindi television with the role of Dr Surjo Sengupta, a man with strong belief in science over nature. The character also came with past trauma and his journey to falling in love again and believing in higher power was great to watch, and Chakrabarty’s performance and screen presence is a big reason for this.
22. Shubham Dipta
This year saw the emergence of the spin-off show Mangal Lakshmi – Lakshmi Ka Safar, which remains rooted in its journey of two sisters, and the link between the Saxena and Nigam families from time to time. Actor Shubham Dipta continued to impress viewers in his role as Kartik; a musician often caught up in unfortunate situations putting his love for Lakshmi at stake. Shubham shared one of the most beautiful chemistries on screen with Sanika Amit, who plays Lakshmi, and delivered a consistent performance worthy of applause throughout the year.
21. Zayn Ibad Khan
Supernatural thriller Jaadu Teri Nazar – Daayan Ka Mausam, has been one of the most consistent shows during the year and made the most of its finite format. Zayn Ibad Khan played the role of Vihaan, a former ‘daavansh’ who crosses paths with Gauri, a woman with divine powers. He was also seen as a daavansh, a darker, alter ego of Vihaan on the show. Zayn delivered brilliantly in his roles and brought the right kind of charm and intensity the characters and show needed. His chemistry with Khushi Dubey was another factor viewers enjoyed during the show’s run.
20. Rajat Verma
This year, we saw an adaptation of critically acclaimed series ‘Shameless’ premiere on Indian television. Titled Itti Si Khushi, the show saw Rajat Verma take on the role of Virat, a charming young man with a lot of mystery behind him. Rajat has undoubtedly been delivering his best performance to date on the show, and as our review stated, he is the “surprise package.” Along with unmistakable chemistry with Sumbul Touqeer Khan (Anvita), the actor’s work on the show got everyone talking.
19. Shivam Khajuria
As Anupamaa continued its glorious run this year, Shivam Khajuria’s portrayal of Prem Kothari was one of the most consistent talking points. While the character represented a son standing for what’s right and his mother-in-law, it also came with its own set of challenges involving aspirations he had to let go off. Shivam succeeded in his rendering of the role, and his chemistry with Adrija Roy, who plays Rahi, was received well by the audience too.
18. Fahmaan Khan
Our former number 1 from our Top 30 Men of Television 2024, Fahmaan Khan managed to make his presence felt this year too with his role of Ranbir Singh Bajwa in Iss Ishq Ka Rabb Rakha. The show came to an end in the first half of the year, but the actor’s portrayal remains in viewers’ hearts proving that when an actor brings their entirety to a role, it truly never gets forgotten. Fahmaan has undoubtedly been a driving force in making the creative Punjab meets Bengal love story one to be remembered and his presence on the medium means the world to viewers across the globe.
17. Krushal Ahuja
Krushal Ahuja was seen as Anirudh in Jhanak where he continued to win hearts in the tangled love story. Around the middle of the year, the show took a generation leap, and the actor exited. He made a return to screens a few months later, as the raw and crafty Aviraj in Binddii. The show, which was lauded for its unique concept, saw Krushal take on the unique role of an anti-hero and father, which he has been receiving a lot of love for.
16. Hitesh Bharadwaj
While Hitesh Bharadwaj bid adieu to viewers of Ghum Hai Kisikey Pyaar Meiin when his character Rajat exited due to a generation leap, the impact of the character lingered, and was even seen very briefly when Savi was brought back into the story a few months later. Luckily for fans, the talented actor returned to screens in the supernatural series Aami Dakini. Playing the role of Ayaan Roy Choudhary, Hitesh once again excelled in his performance, this time in a whole new genre.
15. Adnan Khan
This year, if you ever heard “Vikrant Saluja sir” or simply “Vikrant sir” on your screen, then that’s a reference to Adnan Khan’s character on the show Mannat – Har Khushi Paane Ki. Adnan stood out as the smart and endearing restaurant owner who has a complicated past, unknown to him. The actor has delivered a compelling performance helping drive the story forward, and his pairing with Ayesha Singh, aka Mannat, has been a point of discussion both online and on the ground.
14. Rohit Suchanti
Bhagya Lakshmi bid farewell to viewers during the middle of the year, and Rohit Suchanti’s portrayal of Rishi Oberoi still remains in the minds of viewers across the globe. Not long after, viewers got to see the actor back on screen for the biggest comeback for a show on Indian television history – Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi. Playing the role of Angad Virani, the adopted son of Tulsi and Mihir, Rohit managed to make a place for his character in viewers’ hearts and the character’s love story and his onscreen chemistry with Tanisha Mehta, who plays Vrinda, has been one of the freshest to watch.
13. Shabir Ahluwalia
Some actors know exactly what they need to do and exceed expectations when they do it. Shabir Ahluwalia wanted to do something different for his return to our screens and taking on the role of Yug Sinha in Ufff… Yeh Love Hai Mushkil was undoubtedly a refreshing route. Playing an advocate, with the responsibility of three younger brothers, Ahluwalia was seen in an avatar we never see him in before. Making his character more complex was the past Yug carried, and the actor was splendid in his portrayal and elevated the show with his performance and chemistry with his co-stars.
12. Ram Yashvardhan
Shiv Shakti – Tap Tyaag Tandav maintained its position as the leading show in its genre, and Ram Yashvardhan continued to captivate audiences as Lord Shiva. With his heartfelt and powerful portrayal, this year, the actor took on new avatars of Lord Shiva including Khandoba, Kapali, and Bholenath. To add to the splendour of the show and his versatility, the actor was also seen in the twelve forms of Shiva worshipped across the Jyotirlingas in India. Words continue to be not enough to describe what Yashvardhan brings to the role and show, which as always noted, he was divinely chosen to play.
11. Arjit Taneja
An actor who consistently delivered on television this year is Arjit Taneja. For the initial part of the year, he was seen as Virat in Kaise Mujhe Tum Mil Gaye where he continued to win hearts and landed the show safely with Sriti Jha when it went off-air. Shortly after this, the actor was seen stepping into the role of Inspector Rishi in the second generation of Jhanak. Arjit successfully made a place for himself in the show’s legacy and executed the role well until his exit.
10. Namik Paul
After two years away from television screens, Namik Paul returned this year to help take forward the fourth generation of Kumkum Bhagya. Playing the anti-hero Shivansh, Paul made waves for the way he executed the character. His superb screen presence lit up screens and how he carried out the character’s journey to goodness won hearts all over. Viewers thoroughly enjoyed the energy he brought to the show and helped make the long running legacy end on a satisfying note.
9. Abhishek Kumar
Abhishek Kumar has proven his prowess in entertaining masses this year. Kicking off with Laughter Chefs 2, Abhishek and Samarth Jurel made for a comedic and joyful pair on the show. Abhishek shone throughout whether it’s for his kitchen blunders, or flirting; viewers laughed and were entertained by him. Abhishek then became a participant on Pati Patni Aur Panga alongside Isha Malviya, and here too, his fun personality was on full display! He returned for the third season of Laughter Chefs where the craziness continues! This year he cemented his place as one of television’s most dependable entertainers.
8. Abhishek Bajaj
This year, actor Abhishek Bajaj became a household name following his participation in Bigg Boss 19. Bajaj left audiences buzzing for his frank and bold style of playing, while his innocence was also admired. While he was a clear finalist to both fans and neutral viewers, his journey on the show came to a rather controversial end. However, it did not stop him from becoming one of the strongest forces on television for the year. Viewers look forward to seeing how he returns in style!
7. Rohit Purohit
As Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai continued its strong run this year, actor Rohit Purohit strengthened his place as Armaan Poddar. He is clearly an actor who can make a positive difference with his work, and this year saw the character take new turns, the most notable being post leap where he was seen as a father. His chemistry with his co-actors continues to shine, a testament to the energy he brings to the role and the conviction with which he continues to portray the role.
6. Amar Upadhyay
At the start of the year, actor Amar Upadhyay returned to television with Doree season 2 where he reprised his role of Ganga. While he exited the show, it was only a matter of time until he reprised his most iconic role yet. Upadhyay was seen back as Mihir Virani in the second season of Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi. With the return of the iconic show, the actor cemented his place as an enduring performer which a whole new generation now appreciates. His magic touch which he brings to the role, and to the overall show, cannot be emphasized enough, making him a standout force on television during the year.
5. Harshad Chopda
It was quite some time since viewers waited for Harshad Chopda to make a return, and this year, the wait came to an end. Impressing with the role of Rishabh Kapoor in Bade Achhe Lagte Hain – Naya Season, Chopda was seen in what could be one of his best performances to date in the mature love story. Success isn’t always defined by ratings and the impact of this show, and his contribution is proof of that. The role was a mix of goofiness, charm and mystery, and he delivered well. His chemistry with Shivangi Joshi was also a major USP of the show. Harshad and the show are undoubtedly an inseparable part of television this year.
4. Karan Kundrra
When Laughter Chefs 2 premiered, Karan Kundrra was not part of the line-up of participants. After an exit, Kundrra joined the show and was paired with Elvish Yadav. Karan’s return was welcomed with opened arms by viewers, and his gentle, yet competitive presence made episodes even more fun to watch. Karan and Elvish emerged as the winners of the season, and for Kundrra, it meant a new milestone in his television career. He also appeared on Celebrity Masterchef to support partner Tejasswi Prakash, and twice with her on Pati Patni Aur Panga. He also returned for the third season of Laughter Chefs with Tejasswi as his partner this time. It’s clear that this year too, television would not be the same without Karan Kundrra.
3. Sharad Kelkar
Making a triumphant return to fiction on television after eight years was Sharad Kelkar. Portraying the successful and grounded Arya Vardhan in Tumm Se Tumm Tak, Kelkar has delivered the biggest male comeback of the year, after it hit all the right notes. The show brings an unconventional concept, with fresh execution too, and it would be incomplete without his portrayal, which makes the show even more compelling. While many would have initially questioned his pairing with Niharika Chouksey, his dependable skill, along with Niharika’s, made it one of the most winning pairs in recent times. It’s crystal clear, television missed Sharad Kelkar, and he is back to set new benchmarks in 2025.
2. Kanwar Dhillon
Kanwar Dhillon has consistently delivered a power packed performance as Sachin Deshmukh in Udne Ki Aasha. While the character remains a groundbreaking male protagonist on television, Dhillon’s performance has played a strong role in making the character a staple in viewers’ homes and hearts. This year, the character went through a lot and made small steps towards his goals, and the actor was able to convey every emotion, and make every loss or achievement felt by the viewer. Another constant has been his light-hearted and jovial personality that is able to light up any situation. In an interview with the actor during the year, he said “If you want to stay up there, that’s a process, and I am in that process…” Kanwar Dhillon securing the number two spot on our countdown shows that the process is certainly becoming beautiful by the day!
1. Gaurav Khanna
A name that speaks for itself – Gaurav Khanna! 2025 has been an eventful year for the actor who decided to dive into the reality show space this year. Stepping into the first season of Celebrity Masterchef, Gaurav was almost a write-off in early episodes, but his determination to learn, perfect his culinary skills, together with bringing honesty to each dish, made him the first ever Celebrity Masterchef winner! This was just a trailer of what was coming. During the year he also reprised his role of Anuj from Anupamaa, to host the channel’s monsoon special titled “Romance Ki Barsaat.” It was homecoming for both Gaurav and Anuj, and he got to interact with the new generation of his show, including Anuj’s grown-up daughter.
Gaurav then entered India’s biggest reality show, Bigg Boss for its 19th season. With consistency right from the start, he became a contestant which everyone began to root for. Gaurav Khanna became an unstoppable force with real, unfiltered emotions, clear and firm stands, while incorporating strategy.
He became an example of how the game, often recalled for its fights and unfriendly words, can still be played with dignity and grace, and still make an impact. He re-instilled faith many viewers had lost in the show, and he emerged as the winner of Bigg Boss 19! Given how he redefined not just Bigg Boss, but reality shows at large, he becomes one of the most iconic winners of reality television history.
Gaurav Khanna is the irrefutable ruler of television in 2025 with his power, grace, and impact in every respect!
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