Exclusive – Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah’s Shyam Pathak on Popatlal’s marriage, bond with Dilip Joshi, and dealing with trolls over the long-awaited wedding track

Shyam Pathak is best known for playing the role of Popatlal in the longest running sitcom, Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah. In an exclusive chat with Times of India TV, the actor spoke about Popatlal’s much-awaited wedding track, his long journey on the show, and the love he receives from fans. He also talked about his experience of shooting in Jaipur for the kite festival story line and revealed how they couldn't shoot on real locations due to the huge crowd. Shyam Pathak further opened up about his bond with co-stars Dilip Joshi, Mandar Chandwadkar, and Amit Bhatt. (Photo: Instagram)

Whenever this track comes up, the audience always watches with hope and excitement, wondering if the wedding will finally take place this time. Through you, I would like to tell all the viewers to keep watching because the story is very interesting and has a strong twist. As you can see, I’m dressed as the groom, and a lot of exciting moments are coming up. Viewers will soon find out whether the wedding happens this time or not. (Photo: Instagram)

Popatlal is never disappointed and always stays positive. He strongly believes that one day he will definitely get married, no matter how many hurdles or problems come his way. He has full faith that it will happen eventually. He also shares a special bond with God and keeps talking to Him, asking for his wish to be fulfilled soon. While no one knows when that moment will come, he is confident that it will happen someday. (Photo: Instagram)

It was a very overwhelming experience. I am truly thankful to the audience in Jaipur. In a few places, especially in the markets where we couldn’t shoot properly, a huge crowd had gathered. Still, it was a wonderful experience. We had a lot of fun during the shoot. I wasn’t aware that Jaipur’s kite festival is celebrated on such a grand scale. The sky was completely filled with colourful kites. People take a day off, gather on their terraces, fly kites, and enjoy freshly made pakodas. The entire culture is beautiful. (Photo: Instagram)

It was heartwarming to see families coming together to celebrate. In the evening, there was a beautiful fireworks show and felt like a grand celebration. We also visited a shop where the owner told us it has been running for four generations. The food was delicious, and we shot at some beautiful places like Jal Mahal and Hawa Mahal. Overall, it was a wonderful and memorable experience. (Photo: Instagram)

Playing the same role every day can be challenging for an actor, as there’s always a chance of losing focus. But my theatre background helps me a lot. The moment the director says “action,” I become Popatlal, and when it’s “cut,” I return to being Shyam. Keeping this clear difference is very important for an actor. As a professional, portraying a character who is completely opposite to your real personality is a big challenge. I am nothing like Popatlal in real life, and that’s exactly why I enjoy playing him so much. Every day, I remind myself to maintain that fine line and never let the two personalities mix. (Photo: Instagram)

When people get upset because Popatlal is still unmarried even after so many attempts, I see that anger as a sign of their love. Their emotions come from wanting to see him get married. I take it in a positive way and reassure them that his wedding will happen very soon—even if we don’t know exactly when. Just like me in real life, Popatlal is a very positive person. He never gives up hope. When the right opportunity comes, he will definitely try his best to get married. (Photo: Instagram)

I’m not very active on social media, but whenever I do come across reactions, I always choose to see the positive side. I understand why people react the way they do—it’s because they genuinely want Popatlal to get married, and that’s where the frustration comes from. It’s similar to how we sometimes get upset with our parents at home, questioning them or expressing anger, even though it comes from concern and love. So, I take all of it in a positive spirit. As a character, Popatlal remains extremely hopeful, and that optimism never fades. (Photo: Instagram)

My bond with Dilip ji is truly wonderful. We all share the same make-up room—Dilip bhai, Mandar, Amit, and I. Amit plays Champak Chacha, while Mandar essays the role of Bhide. We’ve been sharing this space for years now, and over time, it has turned into a very special camaraderie. Off camera, the atmosphere is full of fun and laughter. We keep joking around on set, and that comfort reflects in our work too. It’s a warm, enjoyable relationship that makes every day on set a pleasure. (Photo: Instagram)

Dilip ji has an excellent sense of humour. Our chemistry and understanding are such that we often know what the other wants to say, even without words. It’s a very natural and genuine bond that we share. In fact, with all four of us. (Photo: Instagram)