The medium of television has undergone profound transformations in the past three decades. In 1991, there was only one state-controlled TV channel, Doordarshan, in India. By 1998, there were almost 70 channels, and privately run satellite channels have multiplied rapidly since the mid-1990s.

The growth of private satellite television has been staggering. While Doordarshan broadcasts over 35 channels, there were about 900 private television networks broadcasting in 2020. This has been one of the defining developments of contemporary India. The number of individuals watching satellite TV rose from 134 million in 2002 to 190 million in 2005, while homes with access to satellite TV jumped from 40 million to 61 million in the same period.

There has been significant diversification in content. There is a growing number of news channels in Hindi and English, numerous regional channels, and various entertainment programmes including reality shows, talk shows, Bollywood shows, family soaps, interactive shows, game shows and comedy shows.

Entertainment television has produced a new cadre of superstars who have become familiar household names. Reality shows like Kaun Banega Crorepati, Indian Idol and Bigg Boss have become increasingly popular, most modelled along the lines of western programmes.

National markets have given way to a fluid global market, while new technologies have led to the fusion of forms of media that were once distinct.