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Jewel in the Crown is a highly acclaimed British television series that premiered on ITV in 1984. Based on the novel by Paul Scott, the show takes place in India during the final years of British rule and follows the lives of various characters from different backgrounds and social classes.

Susan Wooldridge stars as Daphne Manners, a young Englishwoman who falls in love with an Indian man named Hari Kumar, played by Art Malik. Their relationship faces numerous challenges due to the societal norms of the time, eventually leading to a tragic event that sets off a chain of events that affects everyone in their circle.

Tim Pigott-Smith plays Ronald Merrick, a British police officer who is determined to maintain the status quo and keep the Indian population subservient. He is a ruthless and manipulative character who often uses his position of power to assert his dominance over others.

Peggy Ashcroft plays Barbie Batchelor, an elderly British woman who has spent most of her life in India and has developed a fascination with the local culture. She serves as a sort of mediator between the British and Indian communities, trying to understand both sides and bridge the cultural divide.

Charles Dance plays Guy Perron, a British army officer who becomes involved with various characters throughout the series. He is a complex and nuanced character who grapples with his identity and place in the world as the British Empire begins to crumble.

Eric Porter plays Count Bronowsky, an elderly aristocrat who represents the fading glory of the British Empire. He is a character who is deeply rooted in the traditions of the past but is forced to confront the changing world around him.

Geraldine James plays Sarah Layton, a young woman who is engaged to Daphne's brother and becomes embroiled in the events surrounding Daphne and Hari. She is a sympathetic and relatable character who serves as a sort of audience surrogate, trying to make sense of the complicated world around her.

Saeed Jaffrey plays Raja of Marh, an Indian aristocrat who is barred from pursuing his political ambitions due to the British colonial system. He is a proud and dignified character who represents the aspirations of the Indian people and their struggle for independence.

Jewel in the Crown is a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant series that examines the complexities of race, identity, and cultural imperialism. The performances are outstanding, particularly those of Art Malik, Peggy Ashcroft, and Tim Pigott-Smith, who bring nuance and depth to their respective roles. The series is a must-watch for anyone interested in British colonial history or the legacy of imperialism in the modern world.

Jewel in the Crown is a series that is currently running and has 1 seasons (60 episodes). The series first aired on January 9, 1984.