At a time when finite shows and limited-episode series are gaining popularity among production houses and audience, Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah challenged the norm and has been running for 18 years. The show celebrated its anniversary on July 28. Over these 18 years, many actors parted ways and new members joined the show. Some exits were amicable, and a few turned controversial. As the show achieved a milestone, Sunayana Fozdar, Monaz Mevawala and Navina Wadekar spoke to Telly Talk India exclusively about the perceptions around their performances after replacing Neha Mehta, Jennifer Mistry and Monika Bhadoriya, respectively.
Sunayana Fozdar reacts to replacing Neha Mehta
Sunayana joined as Anjali Mehta in 2020 after Neha Mehta left the show. Talking to Telly Talk India about replacing the actor who was associated with the sitcom since 2008, she said, “The production house and Asit Kumarr Modi had faith in me and were confident that I would do justice to the character that is so iconic and loved by the audience. It was a risk for them too. But their faith made my job easy. I approached this role like any other. I cancelled the noise and focused on my work. For me, every character is special.”
While Sunayana had it easier, Monaz entered the show in 2023 amid Jennifer Mistry’s feud with Asit and the makers of Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah. Allegations, controversies and criticism were also in the room before she could enter.
Monaz Mevawala says audience criticism will be taken seriously
However, the actress who plays Roshan Kaur Sodhi at present, said, “ has cast me for this role. He has faith in me, and I will give my 100 per cent. I signed the show with this belief only. Yes, audience compared but later I realised if there are 20 per cent people who don’t like me, I have 80 per cent liking my work. I respect the feedback given by the audience and will take each one of them in my stride and work towards it. Without our audience, we are nobody.”
Navina Wadekar on replacing Monika Bhadoriya
Navina joined Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah as Baawree in 2023 after Monika Bhadoriya left the show. The actress also thanked the makers for showing faith in her and trusting her with an important role. She said, “It is not possible to please everyone. We do our best to keep the audience happy.”
Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah is created by Asit Kumarr Modi, who is also producing the show under Neela Telefilms. The show airs Monday to Saturday at 8:30 pm on the SonySab channel.