The first season of Iss Pyaar Ko Kya Naam Doon? is widely considered one of the most iconic romantic dramas in Indian television history, consisting of 398 episodes. While some platforms list up to 409 episodes due to different segmenting or inclusion of the later web series, the original broadcast ran from June 6, 2011, to November 30, 2012. The Story of Arnav and Khushi
The narrative explores the "fire and ice" chemistry between Arnav Singh Raizada (ASR), a ruthless, atheist business tycoon, and Khushi Kumari Gupta, a bubbly, traditional girl from Lucknow who believes in God and family.
The Fateful Meeting: Their journey begins in Lucknow when Khushi accidentally disrupts Arnav's high-profile fashion show. Misinterpreting her presence as sabotage, Arnav ruins her reputation, forcing her family to move to Delhi.
The Contract Marriage: In Delhi, Khushi ends up working at Arnav’s office. Despite their constant clashes, they develop deep feelings. However, a misunderstanding involving Arnav's brother-in-law, Shyam, leads Arnav to believe Khushi is a homewrecker. To save his sister Anjali’s marriage, he forces Khushi into a six-month contract marriage.
The Revelation & Redemption: The story takes a dark turn when Arnav is kidnapped by Shyam, only to be rescued by Khushi. Realizing her innocence, Arnav finally exposes Shyam's villainy. The couple eventually remarries with full traditional rituals to appease Arnav's grandmother.
The Final Arc: The latter part of the season involves the introduction of Aarav, an orphan whom they eventually adopt, and Khushi’s journey to becoming Mrs. India, where she wins not just the crown but Arnav’s full respect.
If 174 episodes sound daunting, here is the "Better" shortlist that captures the essence:
To get the best experience of Iss Pyaar Ko Kya Naam Doon Season 1 total episodes, avoid the random YouTube clips. Follow this guide:
| Platform | Availability | Quality | Best for | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | Disney+ Hotstar (India) | Full 174 episodes | 480p (upscaled) | Uncensored original soundtrack. | | YouTube (Star Plus Official) | Episodes 1-100 only | 360p | Nostalgia, but missing climax. | | Amazon Prime (India) | Sometimes listed under "Star Plus" bundle | Varies | Check regional availability. | The first season of Iss Pyaar Ko Kya Naam Doon
Pro Tip: Skip the "Mahasangam" (crossover episodes with Iss Pyaar Ko Kya Naam Doon… just kidding, they never crossed over). Focus on Episodes 1 to 174 continuously to feel the ripple effect.
Iss Pyaar Ko Kya Naam Doon? Season 1 is a landmark Indian romantic drama that originally aired on Star Plus from June 6, 2011, to November 30, 2012. The show is widely celebrated for its intense "opposites attract" dynamic and the sizzling chemistry between its leads, which earned it a cult following worldwide. Episode Count and Structure
The exact episode count for Season 1 can vary slightly depending on the platform's categorization of special episodes or digital uploads:
Total Episodes: Most primary sources, including Wikipedia and TVmaze, cite 398 to 405 episodes for the main television run.
Web Series Extension: In November 2015, an 8-episode mini-series titled Iss Pyaar Ko Kya Naam Doon? – Ek Jashn was released on Hotstar to celebrate the show's legacy and provide a modern epilogue. Plot Summary
The story follows the tumultuous romance between Arnav Singh Raizada (ASR), a ruthless and atheistic business tycoon, and Khushi Kumari Gupta, a bubbly, traditional girl from Lucknow.
The Conflict: Their relationship begins with deep mutual dislike after Arnav blames Khushi for sabotaging one of his fashion events, an incident that eventually ruins her family's reputation.
Forced Marriage: Driven by a misunderstanding regarding Khushi's relationship with his brother-in-law, the villainous Shyam Manohar Jha, Arnav forces Khushi into a six-month marriage of convenience to protect his sister Anjali's happiness. Episode Guide: The "Must-Watch" 10 Episodes out of
Resolution: Over time, the two uncover Shyam’s treachery, realize their deep love for one another, and eventually marry formally with full family rituals. The season concludes with Khushi winning the "Mrs. India" pageant, symbolizing her growth and Arnav’s unwavering support. Core Cast and Characters
The show's success is largely attributed to its well-defined characters:
Arun Singh Raizada (Barun Sobti): The brooding "ASR" whose cold exterior melts due to Khushi's innocence.
Khushi Kumari Gupta (Sanaya Irani): A resilient protagonist known for her quirky habits (like making jalebis when stressed) and strong moral compass.
Shyam Manohar Jha (Abhaas Mehta): The manipulative antagonist who leads a double life, married to Anjali while pursuing Khushi.
Anjali Singh Raizada (Dalljiet Kaur): Arnav's beloved elder sister and the emotional anchor of the Raizada family. Why It Remains a Classic
Unrivaled Chemistry: The pairing of Barun Sobti and Sanaya Irani is considered one of the Best Onscreen Couples in Indian television history.
Unique Tone: Unlike the typical "saas-bahu" dramas of its time, it balanced intense romantic tension with witty humor and a "slow burn" narrative. Episode 1: The crash
Global Impact: The series has been dubbed into several languages, including Tamil (Idhu Kadhala), Turkish (Bir Garip Ask), and Arabic, reaching audiences far beyond India. Iss Pyaar Ko Kya Naam Doon (TV Series 2011–2018) - Plot
If you are binge-watching this for the first time, there is one crucial detail you need to know.
The show was supposed to run longer, but due to the lead actor (Barun Sobti) leaving for a movie career, the show had to wrap up abruptly.
Modern shows often rely on heavy makeup, designer sarees, and lavish sets to hide weak writing. IPKKND had style, but it had substance first. The dialogues, the background score (Rabba Ve), and the acting carried the show.
Episodes 1–30: The Storm Begins
Khushi, a chirpy, temple-going girl, works as a part-time wedding planner while dreaming of opening her own small business. Arnav, the “ASR,” returns from London to Delhi to expand his empire. Their first meeting is at her sister’s engagement—he insults her payal (anklet), she calls him “Laad Governor” (spoiled tyrant). He buys her family’s ancestral land for a mall. War declared.
Episodes 31–70: Forced Proximity
To save her family home, Khushi takes a job as Arnav’s temporary event manager for his sister’s wedding. She moves into his stark, glass-walled mansion. He hates her chaos; she hates his control. But in a rain-soaked night, he saves her from an accident—and for the first time, she sees a flicker of pain in his eyes.
Episodes 71–110: Unraveling Secrets
Arnav’s past trauma is revealed (his mother’s suicide, believing love destroyed her). Khushi accidentally discovers he was manipulated by his scheming brother-in-law, Shyam. She tries to help. He pushes her away. In a Diwali sequence, they kiss—but he regrets it, calling her a “distraction.” She leaves, heartbroken.
Episodes 111–150: Separation & Growth
Khushi starts her own successful catering business. Arnav realizes his loneliness. They meet at a charity gala—she’s engaged to a kind doctor (new character). Arnav, jealous, finally admits: “I don’t know love. But I know I can’t breathe without your chaos.” He fights for her—not with arrogance, but vulnerability.
Episodes 151–190: The Great Reconciliation
Khushi breaks off the engagement respectfully. Arnav apologizes publicly to her family. They begin a slow, mature courtship. He learns to pray. She learns to stand up to his business rivals. Together, they expose Shyam’s crimes. Emotional wedding in Lucknow—payal vs Italian shoes finally unite.
Episodes 191–210: The New Better Ending
Post-wedding, they face no ridiculous amnesia or kidnapping tracks. Instead: Khushi launches a women’s entrepreneurship foundation. Arnav steps back from his toxic empire to support her. Final episode: They adopt a little girl, naming her Aashna (Beloved). Last scene: Arnav ties a payal on her daughter’s foot. Khushi whispers, “Iss pyaar ko kya naam doon?” He smiles: “Ghar.”