Grab your tissues, because it’s the end of an era. MTV shuts down — the channel that was basically the background score of our school mornings, college hostel nights, and cousin sleepovers — is shutting down its music channels after over 40 years. The twist? This isn’t happening in India.
Globally, MTV 80s, MTV 90s, MTV Music, MTV Live, and Club MTV are all set to go off-air by 31st December 2025. The main MTV channel will continue, but mostly with reality shows. However, before you start getting emotional and digging out your old pen drives of downloaded MTV hits — relax.
A JioStar representative confirmed to The Quint that this news is not true for MTV Shuts down in India. So, while viewers in the UK are saying their goodbyes, our local MTV isn’t going anywhere just yet. Phew.
From Music to Reality — The Global Shift
Once the global hub for music videos, MTV gradually shifted focus toward reality entertainment. Shows like Jersey Shore, Catfish, and Teen Mom became global hits, but they also marked the start of MTV’s move away from its music roots. Meanwhile, platforms like YouTube, Spotify, and TikTok made listening to (and watching) music faster and more personal — no waiting for the “Top 10 Countdown” anymore.
Desi Nostalgia Still Hits Different
If you grew up in India during the 2000s or early 2010s, you know exactly what MTV meant. The channel was our morning alarm, our background noise while we ironed school uniforms, and our first taste of pop culture. Whether it was MTV Roadies, Unplugged, or MTV Indies, it gave us music, madness, and memories in equal measure.
So even though MTV abroad might be tuning out, we’re still safe here — and honestly, a little proud that the desi audience is keeping the vibe alive.
The Takeaway
MTV Shuts down may have changed with the times, but for many of us, it’s still more than just a channel; it’s nostalgia wrapped in soundtracks, laughter, and a dash of teenage chaos.
So yes, the world might be saying goodbye to MTV music channels, but here in India, our playlists still have that familiar MTV logo playing in the background just the way it should be.