From Anjali aka Neha Mehta to 'Bawri' Monika Bhadoriya: Why these popular actors quit Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah

Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah is one of the most popular sitcoms on the small screen. Even after several years, the show retains its position in the top 5 on the TRP charts. However, several actors in the recent past, who have been a part of the show for a long time, have quit suddenly leaving fans disheartened. Here's looking at what made them take the big decision.

: Shailesh Lodha aka Taarak Mehta is the latest actor to have quit Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah. A source told ETimes TV, Shailesh was not happy with his contract and he felt that his dates were not being used properly. Another reason was that the actor had not able to explore other opportunities due to exclusivity factor. He had turned down multiple offers but didn't want to waste other opportunities coming his way. He is now going to be seen on the show Waah Bhai Waah.

Neha Mehta, who played the role of Anjali called it quits in 2020. Her sudden decision after playing the character for 12 years came as a shock to her fans. Back then she stated her reasons for the move. "Yes, there were issues, but I believe that sometimes, silence speaks for itself. Also, I felt that I needed to move on and grow. I need to explore other platforms like films and web series. Also, when you become a part of a project for such a long time, you settle into a comfort zone and don’t think of any other opportunities. Over the last few years, I got some interesting offers, but I let them go because I felt this show was my family." Even though the actor did not speak about monetary issues with the producers back then, she told BT very recently that her dues have still not been settled. "I acted in Taarak Mehta as Anjali for 12 years before quitting in 2020. The last six months' money is pending. After I quit the show, I called them a few times regarding my pending dues. I don't like complaining... hopefully, there will be a solution soon and I will get my hard-earned money." Neha recently finished shooting for a Gujarati film. (Photo: Instagram)

Gurucharan Singh aka Sodhi, who was replaced by Balwinder Singh Suri in 2020, did not state his obvious reasons for leaving the show. But he did tell ETimes TV why he quit. He said, "My Dad had undergone a surgery around the time I quit the show. There were a few other things I had to address and life went on. There were a few other reasons I quit but don't want to talk about that. Corona tak jo bhi kaam kiya show par bahut achcha milkar jammkar kiya." He also hinted at monetary issues with the makers but added, "Hum pyaar mohabbat se aage badhna pasand karna chahte hain. There are some other reasons I don't want to talk about."

There were reports that Bawri aka Monika Bhadoriya wanted a hike in her fees, a demand which was not agreed to by the makers. Even though Monika did not say anything about her differences with the production house, she confirmed her exit to ETimes TV, "Yes, I have left the show. It's been more than two months since I quit. I will miss the character a lot since I had moulded it my way." Monika denied the reports of asking for a hike in fee, she said, "I have left Taarak on an amicable note."

Disha Vakani, who played the role of Dayaben in the show, went on a maternity break in 2017 but did not return to the show. Although Disha shot for cameos in 2018 and 2019, she did not get back to playing her role. Her character is shown to be in Ahmedabad on the show. Disha also delivered her second child this year. And now after waiting for a long time, the makers have confirmed looking for her replacement. Meanwhile, Disha is busy looking after her babies and family.

Nidhi Bhanushali, who played the role of Sonu on the show, left the sitcom to focus on her studies. She had joined Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah in 2012 and essayed the part for a good 6 years. Earlier, the role was played by Jheel Mehta who had left the show for same reasons. Nidhi is currently busy with her travel Vlogs. She is a travel junkie and her videos are all about exploring new places.

While there is no confirmation of his exit, several reports last year suggested that Raj Anadkat was keen to leave the show. Sources close to the show informed ETimes TV that Raj had spoken to the production house about his plans to quit. They had a chat about it. However, things did not reach a conclusion and Raj continued. But of late, he has been missing from the show. He is rather shooting for a music video and is onto a new exciting project with Bollywood actor, Ranveer Singh. Just like Shailesh and Neha, Raj wanted to explore new opportunites. (Photo: Instagram)