Asian TV shows with desi touch

Bored of the saas bahu sagas and want to expand your horizon? Here’s our pick of Asian TV shows which pack the same masala Indian TV is infamous for (Credits: Kunal Guha)

Miss Rose (Taiwanese)

The one essaying the eponymous lead here could pass for a Taiwanese KKusum. It’s based on the life of a marginalised secretary who cares for all and is a bit too selfless for her own good. When a sprightly young boss shows up in office to revive the sinking business, her heart skips a beat. While Rose is still nursing the wounds of her last breakup, she’s convinced that cupid won’t aim at her this time around, as the man in question is presently committed to the CEO’s daughter. Will Miss Rose ever become a ‘Mrs’ or not is predictable, but the journey till the very last episode is packed with laughs, tears and a few jolts.

Marry Me, or Not? (Taiwanese)

Can a divorce lawyer and an aggressive tour operator make for a successful couple? She knows what she wants and how to get it, he has never lost a case but doesn’t believe in the institution of marriage. The unlikely couple hit it off but their diverse opinions on marriage become a sore spot. No prize for guessing how this one wraps up.

Atelier (Japanese)

Jassi Jaissi Koi Nahin fans, here’s something for you. With influences from Ugly Betty and Devil Wears Prada, this one’s about a girl who begins working for a celebrated lingerie designer in Tokyo’s Ginza District. This designer in question also happens to be a boss from hell, leading to various comic situations.

The Fierce Wife (Taiwanese)

It would be unfair to call this the Taiwanese version of Biwi No 1 but it wouldn’t be entirely misplaced. Praying for her hubby’s long life, the wife here is a lot more than fierce. Her insecurities stem from her husband’s professional affiliation with his ex. A loud obnoxious comedy this.

Office Girls (Taiwanese)

Despite the title, this show is hardly about females at the workplace. It follows an heir of a shopping mall who is forced to intern with his father’s enterprise, only incognito. But this one largely deals with the business of the heart and is a love triangle laced with deceit. For those who love the havoc wrecked by scorpion bindi flaunting bad bhabhis, this one has some fiercely competitive gals, who will stop at nothing: be it to bag that big contract or the man they desire.