Zee TV’s historical show Jodha Akbar has been a consistent TRP topper ever since it hit airwaves less than a year ago. t2 lists the reasons why the Ekta Kapoor show is 220 episodes (on April 19) strong.

• The love-hate relationship between Jodha (Paridhi Sharma) and Akbar (Rajat Tokas) is a huge pull. Fans are hooked to their bitter-sweet fights and the romantic manner in which they make up. The Jodha-Akbar relationship has been explored through various ups and downs and has evolved over time. The show that started with intense dislike between the two is at a stage where they are experiencing the first pangs of love and are very protective about each other. The one thing viewers are looking forward to: Akbar going down on his knees to profess his love to Jodha.

• The show’s diverse elements — politics and treachery, chivalry and romance — contribute to its popularity. Maham Anga (played by Ashwini Kalsekar) and Ruqaiya Begum (Lavina Tandon) spice up the show with their villainy while Maham’s son Adham (Chetan Hansraj) and Akbar’s brother in-law Sharifuddin (Parag Tyagi) keep the show engaging with their constant plotting and planning.

• Everything about Jodha Akbar spells opulent, with producer Ekta Kapoor ensuring that the show is one of the most expensive India has ever seen. While the costumes are dazzling, the show’s luxurious sets in Jaipur, Karjat and Kolhapur contribute to its eyeball-grabbing.

• Rajat Tokas, who plays Akbar, had already carved a name for himself as Prithviraj Chauhan in Dharti Ka Veer Yodha Prithviraj Chauhan (STAR Plus) and his latest screen outing has only increased his popularity, especially among female fans.

• Paridhi Sharma as Jodha has an expressive face and vulnerable demeanour, something that has earned her scores of fans. Plus, she has the acting chops.

• Jodha Akbar may be a period drama based in the 16th century, but the character of Jodha is an inspiration for women to stand up for their rights. Her refusal to be a submissive wife makes Jodha a woman of today, intelligent and assertive.

Jodhaa Akbar: TV vs film

The 2008 film directed by Ashutosh Gowariker had one major USP: its lead pair of Hrithik Roshan and Aishwarya Rai. Probably the best-looking lead pair in Bolly history. Their chemistry, conveyed mostly through their eyes, remains unmatchable. Rajat and Paridhi, though cute as a couple, don’t come close to that searing chemistry.

While the film avoided mentioning Akbar’s other wives, the show not only shows his other wives but even focuses on harem politics.

With time and scope available, the TV show has explored not only the Jodha-Akbar love story but various aspects of Akbar’s life — the philanthropist to the benevolent ruler.

The film had a jaw-dropping sword fight between Jodha and Akbar. The show has attempted the same sequence, but failed to recreate the magic.

I like the love-hate relationship between Jodha and Akbar and how it has evolved over time — Michelle Alphonso, third year, St. Xavier’s College

I watch the show for Rajat Tokas. I love Jodha’s jewellery... they are so beautiful. Wish I was a princess!

—       Indu Shah, primary school teacher

Jodha Akbar is quite entertaining and I like it because this epic drama speaks of an enchanting love that blossomed out of a political marriage. I like the beautiful depiction of the events that occurred during that era

—       Nibedita Dash Thakur, software professional