MUMBAI: When the late Michael Jackson sang the hit single Black or White in 1991, little did he know the title would inspire a news program's title Black & White two decades later, which would become a massive hit in India. Of course MJ’s song was all about respecting colour, and Black & White, hosted by consulting editor Sudhir Chaudhary on Aaj Tak, dissects developments of the day during prime-time. 

So strong has been Black & White’s  grip on viewers, according to research data provided by TV Today, that it has held on to the leadership position across television and digital platforms in early February. The programme topped Hindi news viewership in week five of 2025, recording a gross average minute audience of 9,746 during its 9 pm slot, according to ratings agency Barc. News18 India followed with 9,355 viewers, whilst Republic Bharat drew 8,752.

On YouTube Live between 3-7 February, the show averaged 136,000 concurrent viewers, significantly ahead of India TV at 68,100 and Republic Bharat at 46,700. Times Now Navbharat and ABP News recorded 32,600 and 29,200 viewers respectively.

Chaudhary, who joined Aaj Tak in 2022 after senior roles at Zee News and Wion, presents the nightly analysis programme across television, digital platforms and out-of-home screens. He was previously awarded the Ramnath Goenka journalism excellence award in 2013.

The show's cross-platform performance has helped cement Aaj Tak's position as India's most-watched Hindi news channel, according to a release issued by the company.