Jethalal Gada, portrayed by Dilip Joshi, remains one of the most beloved characters from TMKOC. While Joshi soared to stardom with this role, several other actors experienced missed opportunities by turning it down. Here’s a glimpse!
Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah has been spreading joy for nearly fifteen years, captivating millions of viewers. The show catapulted its cast to overnight fame, particularly Dilip Joshi, whose portrayal of the iconic character Jethalal Gada has earned him immense popularity.
However, did you know that before Dilip Joshi took on the role, it was offered to five other talented actors? Here’s a brief glimpse at the list.
Actors who declined Jethalal’s role in Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah
1. Ali Asgar
Actor and comedian Ali Asgar was reportedly considered for the role of Jethalal but declined due to prior professional commitments. He is best known for his portrayals of Kamal in Kahaani Ghar Ghar Kii and Dadi in The Kapil Sharma Show.
2. Yogesh Tripathi
Yogesh Tripathi, famous for his role as Daroga Happu Singh in Bhabhiji Ghar Par Hain, turned down the offer for Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah citing prior work commitments.
3. Kiku Sharda
Kiku Sharda is said to have refused the role of Jethalal because he preferred to continue with his stand-up acts as Bachcha Yadav and Palak on The Kapil Sharma Show rather than commit to a full-fledged serial.
4. Ahsaan Qureshi
Stand-up comedian Ahsaan Qureshi, known for his stint on The Great Indian Laughter Challenge, reportedly declined the opportunity to play the iconic character, although the reasons behind his decision remain unknown.
5. Rajpal Yadav
Renowned for his impeccable comic timing, Rajpal Yadav turned down the offer for Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah as he aimed to focus solely on his Bollywood career and refrain from venturing into television. Yadav has garnered acclaim for his roles in films such as Waqt- Race Against Time, Mujhse Shaadi Karogi, and Bhool Bhulaiyya, among others.
About Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah
Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah holds the distinction of being the longest-running sitcom on Indian Television, debuting on July 28, 2008. Inspired by the popular humorous column “Duniya Ne Undha Chashmah” penned by the renowned Gujarati writer Mr. Tarak Mehta, the show revolves around the Gada family. Led by businessman Jethalal Champaklal Gada, the family includes his wife Daya and their mischievous son, Tipendra Gada. Residing in the Gokuldham Co-operative Society, the series follows the Gadas as they navigate through their daily trials and tribulations in a light-hearted manner.
Featuring an ensemble cast led by Dilip Joshi, Munmun Dutta, Amit Bhatt, and Mandar Chandwadkar, among others, Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah is created and produced by Asit Kumarr Modi under his banner Neela Film Productions Private Limited. It airs every Monday to Friday at 8:30 p.m. on Sab TV and is also available for streaming on the SonyLIV app.
