Year Ender 2024: From Monalisa and Sangita Ghosh to Sreejita De – TV's Most Unforgettable Antagonists of the Year

MUMBAI: They say where there's good, there's also bad—and it's this balance that truly creates drama. Television thrives on the timeless clash of good versus evil, and 2024 saw some unforgettable villains rise to the occasion. With their charisma, cunning, and layered personalities, these negative characters stole the spotlight and redefined the genre.

Monalisa as Mohini in Shemaroo Umang's Shamshaan Champa

It would be wrong to call Monalisa, the most loving and charming star of Indian television, anything less than captivating. In 2024, she once again mesmerized audiences with her portrayal of Mohini, a powerful and relentless daayan, in Shemaroo Umang's Shamshaan Champa. Her commanding screen presence and intense performance made Mohini an unforgettable antagonist. The show’s gripping storyline, revolving around Champa’s quest for justice after being wrongfully accused of witchcraft, was elevated by Monalisa’s portrayal, leaving a lasting impact on viewers.

Sangita Ghosh as Saroj in Sun Neo's Saajha Sindoor

Known for her sweet and graceful on-screen presence, Sangita Ghosh took a bold turn in 2024, stepping into the shoes of the cunning and ambitious Saroj in Saajha Sindoor on Sun Neo. Unlike her real-life warmth, Saroj is a scheming stepmother whose thirst for power adds intense drama to the royal family saga. Sangita’s striking portrayal of this complex antagonist showcases her versatility, leaving fans hooked every Monday to Saturday at 8 PM.

Sreejita De as Chhaya Dayan in Star Bharat's Shaitani Rasmein

Remember Sreejita De from Bigg Boss 16 and her memorable mother-banter moment? This year, she mesmerized audiences as Chhaya Dayan in Shaitani Rasmein. Playing a sinister and powerful dayan with magical abilities, Sreejita added an intriguing edge to the supernatural thriller. As Chhaya, Piyush’s wicked aunt, she was central to the show's dark mystery, which follows Nikki’s life after marrying a prince with hidden secrets. With a captivating performance and the show’s gripping narrative, Shaitani Rasmein airs at 10:00 PM, elevating the supernatural drama genre.

Anita Hassanandani as Devika Gupta Mittal in Colors' Suman Indori

Anita Hassanandani, known for her iconic grey-shade roles in Naagin and Yeh Hai Mohabbatein, delivered a captivating performance as Devika Mittal Gupta in Colors' Suman Indori. As Gajinder’s strong-willed elder daughter and Riva’s mother, Anita excels in this layered negative role, adding depth and intrigue to her character. The show follows Suman, a food truck owner whose life changes when her brother dies during a political protest. Anita’s portrayal of Devika perfectly complements the dramatic twists, making her an essential part of this gripping narrative.

Krutika Desai as Pakhi in Star Plus' Anupamaa

Anupamaa took a major turn with a leap that introduced Krutika Desai as the complex Pakhi "Sweety" Shah. As Anupamaa and Vanraj’s daughter, Pakhi’s journey is filled with emotional depth and growth. Krutika’s portrayal brings a fresh intensity to the character, from her past with Adhik to her evolving relationships, making Pakhi a character viewers love to talk about and ensuring her place as a key part of Anupamaa on Star Plus.