Veteran television producer Asit Kumarr Modi, the man behind India’s longest-running sitcom Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah (TMKOC), has responded publicly for the first time to the numerous allegations and actor exits that have clouded the show’s reputation over the past few years. In a candid interview with Screen, Modi addressed the accusations of toxicity, exploitation, and harassment that have surfaced from several former cast members, expressing sadness over the developments but choosing to forgive and move forward.
When asked how he reacts to actors quitting and later levelling allegations against him and his production house, Modi maintained a composed stance: “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.” He further admitted that he feels deeply hurt when such events occur but accepts them as a part of life.
Acknowledging Contributions of Departed Actors Perhaps the most unexpected response was his gracious attitude toward those who spoke out against the show. Modi refrained from retaliation and credited all former actors for their contribution to the show’s success: “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.” He likened the show to a train — a metaphor that acknowledges the derailment of some compartments while maintaining that the journey must go on: “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.”
A Show Shadowed by Controversy While Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah has been a family favourite since 2008, it hasn’t been immune to behind-the-scenes turbulence. Over the past five years, the sitcom has been in the spotlight not just for its episodes but for the exodus of its cast and the serious allegations they’ve made:
- Neha Mehta (Anjali Mehta) left the show in 2020 citing lack of discipline on set. She later alleged that dues weren’t cleared, a claim denied by the production.
- Shailesh Lodha (Taarak Mehta), who exited in 2022, also accused the showrunners of not honouring commitments and creating an exploitative environment.
- Jennifer Mistry Bansiwal (Roshan Sodhi), in 2023, accused Asit Modi of sexual harassment and filed an official complaint. This became one of the most high-profile controversies the show has faced.
- Monika Bhadoriya (Bawri) too, publicly alleged that Modi and project head Sohail Ramani fostered a hostile workplace and ignored complaints of mental health issues.
- Palak Sidhwani, who played Sonu, exited in late 2023 under ambiguous circumstances and later hinted at mismanagement and creative disagreements.
Show Must Go On: The Producer’s Perspective Asit Kumarr Modi’s comments, though brief, carry a reflective tone. By choosing forgiveness over confrontation, he presents himself as someone focused on the longevity and morale of the show, rather than indulging in public spats. “I won’t be able to make people laugh if I keep grudges,” he noted — a line that mirrors the essence of the show he’s kept alive for nearly two decades.
Public Opinion Divided Online forums and fan pages of TMKOC have been abuzz with mixed reactions to Modi’s statement:
- Some praised his dignified and humble response, saying he has taken the high road despite the allegations.
- Others, however, believe that the producer needs to take more accountability for the work culture, especially when multiple actors have made similar claims over the years.
The Legacy of Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah First aired in 2008 on Sony SAB, TMKOC has become a cultural phenomenon. With over 4000 episodes, it holds the record for the longest-running Indian sitcom and continues to attract a multi-generational audience. It now also streams on SonyLIV, expanding its reach among digital viewers. Despite the setbacks, the show’s TRPs have remained relatively strong, largely due to its family-friendly humour and moral messaging.
Asit Kumarr Modi’s Philosophy – Forgive and Continue the Journey While the controversies surrounding TMKOC are far from over, Asit Kumarr Modi’s recent statements show a producer who acknowledges pain, chooses forgiveness, and prioritizes legacy over conflict. As the Indian television industry evolves, the coming months may determine whether TMKOC continues to thrive or if the past controversies catch up. One thing remains certain — the audience, like the “train” Modi refers to, is still very much on board.
