Concept Dismissed at First
When producer-creator Asit Kumarr Modi proposed the concept of Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah nearly two decades ago, he recalls that many in the industry laughed at him. The idea of a daily family comedy centred around a Gujarati society, with relatable characters and social messages, was dismissed by television networks who doubted its viability.
From Skepticism to 17-Year Success
Despite the initial scepticism, the show went ahead, and its success speaks volumes. Asit Modi observes that the show’s genuine humour, enduring characters and its heart in depicting everyday society life helped it become one of India’s longest-running sitcoms. What began as a concept ridiculed by some became a cultural phenomenon.
Why It Still Resonates
Modi attributes the show’s longevity to staying true to its core values—humour rooted in social context, ensemble cast chemistry and a consistent delivery of family-friendly entertainment. He emphasises that even now, after 17 years, it remains a challenge to keep evolving while preserving the familiar warmth that originally won viewers’ hearts.
