MUMBAI: If you thought only the make-up clad, good-looking bahu from a traditional Indian household managing everything perfectly, could grab the attention of the Indian TV viewers, it is time to think again!

This time, it’s a blast from the past. While the indelible historic story of Jodha and Akbar on Zee TV are fascinating many, Jodha seems to have won all the appreciation. According to the latest findings (November 2013) of the Ormax Characters India Loves (CIL) research, Jodha from Zee TV’s daily fiction show Jodha-Akbar has emerged as the most popular fiction character on Indian television.

The CIL research that is conducted in 19 Hindi-speaking markets in India, covering a monthly sample size of more than 3,000 respondents in the 15-44 years age group, was started in August 2009. Interestingly, Jodha is only the fifth character to have taken the top position, the other four being Anandi (Balika Vadhu), Suhaana (Sasural Genda Phool), Jethalal (Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah) and Ram Kapoor (Bade Achhe Lagte Hain). Jodha is also the first Zee TV character to have taken the top position.

Speaking about the findings, Ormax Media insights head – television Anurag Bakhshi said: “Jodha’s popularity is a result of her unique portrayal of a historical character whose aspirations are relevant to the young audience of today’s evolving India. Her popularity is particularly strong in Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Punjab markets.”

According to the November 2013 Ormax CIL Report, the other most liked fiction characters on television are Sandhya (Diya Aur Baati Hum), Jethalal (Taarak Mehta…), Anandi (Balika Vadhu) and Mahadev, while Kapil Sharma (Comedy Nights With Kapil) is by far the most popular non-fiction character on television.