Celebrating 18 Years of Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah
Mumbai, July 29: The beloved television show ‘Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah’ marked its 18th anniversary on Tuesday, with producer Asit Modi and the cast, including Jethalal and Babita Ji, sharing untold stories during a press conference. Modi revealed that Amit Bhatt, who plays Champak Chacha, shaved his head for two consecutive years to fit into the role.
He stated, “When I cast Amit Ji, I informed him that my father had no hair. Therefore, for two years, he regularly visited the salon to shave his head. He completely sacrificed his hair, which I believe was like offering it to God. He gave his hair wholeheartedly for the show. I don’t know who is luckier, but the show has been blessed.”
Actor Dilip Joshi, who plays Jethalal, also shared his experience, mentioning that he was initially offered the role of Champaklal, Jethalal’s father. However, he was later chosen for the lead role of Jethalal.
Recalling his conversation with Modi, Joshi said, “When Asit Bhai gave me the option to choose between Champaklal or Jethalal, I said I wouldn’t choose Champaklal because I didn’t resemble that character at all.”
He further added, “I also hesitated to choose Jethalal immediately because a Gujarati magazine had published a cartoon of Taarak Bhai depicting a very thin person with curly hair. I had been reading such things since childhood. Then I thought I would give it a try, and by God’s grace, our journey has brought us here.”
Dilip Joshi has carved a special place in the hearts of audiences as Jethalal, the owner of Gada Electronics, making this character one of the most popular comedic roles in Indian television.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.