Ramanand Sagar was a legendary Indian filmmaker, director, and writer, best known for creating the iconic television series "Ramayan" (1987-1988). His contribution to Indian cinema and television made him a household name, and his family's legacy continues to influence the entertainment industry.

This detailed account explores Ramanand Sagar’s family history, early life, career, and the contributions of his descendants in preserving his cinematic heritage.

1. Origins and Early Life of Ramanand Sagar

Birth and Family Background

  • Full Name: Ramanand Sagar Chopra
  • Born: December 29, 1917, in Lahore, British India (now in Pakistan)
  • Parents:
    • Father: Lala Dinanath Chopra – a respected businessman
    • Mother: Died when he was young
  • Adopted by Grandmother: After his mother's passing, he was adopted by his maternal grandmother, taking on the surname Sagar instead of Chopra.

Growing up in a wealthy family, Ramanand Sagar was deeply passionate about literature, mythology, and storytelling.

2. Career in Films and Television

Early Struggles and Breakthrough

  • Started his career as a clerk, truck cleaner, and peon to support himself.
  • Wrote his first short story, "Prem Nagar", at a young age.
  • Won a gold medal from the University of Punjab for his excellence in writing.

Entry into Bollywood (1940s–1960s)

  • Began as a scriptwriter for films in the 1940s.
  • Wrote the screenplay for "Barsaat" (1949), directed by Raj Kapoor.
  • Founded Sagar Art Enterprises in the 1950s and produced hit films like:
    • "Ghunghat" (1960)
    • "Zindagi" (1964)
    • "Aankhen" (1968) – A spy thriller that became a blockbuster.

Television Revolution – "Ramayan" (1987-1988)

  • Created the most-watched Indian TV series of all time, "Ramayan", in 1987.
  • Aired on Doordarshan, the series redefined Indian television and made mythology-based shows a trend.
  • Actors like Arun Govil (Ram) and Deepika Chikhalia (Sita) became national icons.
  • Inspired later mythological shows like "Shri Krishna" (1993) and "Jai Ganga Maiya" (1995).

Ramanand Sagar’s visionary storytelling made him a pioneer in Indian television, blending faith, tradition, and entertainment.

3. Personal Life and Family

Wife and Children

  • Wife: Leelavati Sagar – His lifelong companion.
  • Children: Several, but his son Prem Sagar played a significant role in continuing his legacy.

The Next Generation – Sagar Family Legacy

1. Prem Sagar

  • Son of Ramanand Sagar and a prominent filmmaker and TV producer.
  • Produced mythological series like "Shri Krishna" and other devotional serials.
  • Preserved and digitally remastered Ramanand Sagar's works for modern audiences.

2. Moti Sagar

  • Actively involved in the Sagar Arts production house.
  • Created "Jai Jai Jai Bajrang Bali", another devotional TV series.

3. Anand Sagar

  • Worked on "Ramayan 2008", a remake of the original.
  • Contributed to new-age mythological shows.

4. Akash Sagar Chopra

  • Part of the new generation, focusing on digital and contemporary content while honoring the family’s mythological roots.

4. Ramanand Sagar’s Death and Legacy

  • Died: December 12, 2005, in Mumbai, India.
  • Left behind a vast collection of cinematic and television masterpieces.
  • His name remains synonymous with mythological storytelling and spiritual entertainment.

Impact on Indian Entertainment

  • Inspired a new wave of mythological shows that continue to be made today.
  • "Ramayan" was re-telecast in 2020 during the COVID-19 lockdown, breaking all previous viewership records.
  • His family continues to preserve his legacy, adapting his works for new generations.

5. The Sagar Family and Their Influence Today

Even after his passing, Ramanand Sagar’s family has kept his vision alive through various productions:

  • Sagar Arts continues to produce devotional content.
  • His mythological series remain the benchmark for Indian television storytelling.
  • The Sagar family is regarded as pioneers in devotional and historical content in India.

6. Discover Your Own Family History with Family Root App

Explore your family's legacy like the Astors and preserve your heritage effortlessly.
Download Now