TMKOC creator Asit Modi reacts to controversies around the show, allegations made by former actors: ‘I do feel bad, but I forgive them’
Asit Kumar Modi’s show Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah (TMKOC) has enjoyed a successful 17-year run on Indian television. Over the years, the producer has faced both praise and criticism. In 2023, TMKOC and Modi came under scrutiny following serious allegations, including misconduct on set and unpaid dues, made by several former cast members. Until recently, the producer had chosen to remain silent on the matter. However, in an exclusive interview with SCREEN, Modi finally addressed the controversies surrounding the show.”
During the interview, the TV producer revealed whether the allegations had upset him. Modi said, “I have never detached myself from the actors. If there is any issue, they can always contact me. I have always been very honest and kept the show first. I have never thought of any personal gains, so with incidents like these, I do get upset, but it’s a part of life.”
He added, “Actors who have left have been saying things against me. It’s okay. I will not say anything to them. They have worked on my show and have a part to play in TMKOC’s success. Even though I led it, the show became popular due to everyone’s efforts. I couldn’t have made this what it is today all alone. We are like a train. Some compartments get derailed, but the train will continue to run. I do feel bad, but I forgive them, because if I hold a grudge in my heart. I won’t be happy and won’t be able to make people laugh.”
Talking about Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah’s success, Asit Kumar Modi said, “When a show becomes popular, it’s a team effort. They all have worked very hard. I make sure that they don’t face any problems as such. I focus on keeping them united, and if they are also sincere in their work, too many issues don’t arise.”
Modi also addressed the question on everyone’s mind: When will Dayaben return? He said, “The popularity of the show remains intact even today. People do complain that they don’t enjoy the show ever since Daya Bhabhi left, and I agree. I will bring back Daya Bhabhi soon. The entire team of writers and actors try their best to fill in Daya Bhabhi’s absence. Daya Bhabhi will return soon. We can only pray that Disha Vakani returns; she has family duties. She is like my younger sister, and we are like family even today. It might be difficult for her to return. I have shortlisted a few people for the role, and you will get to know them soon. It has been five years since she left, and we miss her even today. She was so caring towards her fellow artistes as well as the crew. We aim to find someone just like Disha Vakani.”
