'TMKOC' star Dilip Joshi reacts to less screentime & exit rumours, urges media to verify before publishing
Mumbai, July 17
As 'Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah' celebrated its 18th anniversary on July 17, actor Dilip Joshi, who essays the iconic role of Jethalal, addressed recurring rumours about his alleged exit and less screentime from the long-running sitcom.
He urged media houses to verify facts before publishing such reports.
During the interaction with media present for the 18th year celebrations, Dilip was asked about reports claiming his screen time would be reduced and that he would be exiting the show.
Responding to the speculation, the actor said social media has both positive and negative aspects, adding that many people spread such stories merely to attract views and attention.
"What can I say? Social media has both advantages and disadvantages. Some people use it to earn views and grab eyeballs by publishing such stories," he said.
Expressing concern over the spread of unverified reports, Dilip added that what disappoints him more is when reputed media organisations publish such news without checking the facts.
"The sad part is when renowned media houses publish such stories without investigating. Before publishing, at least ask the production house whether it is fake news or true. Nowadays, everyone seems to be in a race thinking that if they don't publish immediately, they'll be left behind," he said.
He added, "I am not talking about genuine media houses or influencers because you cannot stop everyone, it's a vast ocean. But I would request our reputed news agencies and media houses that before you publish or print something, please ask the production house or the concerned person to confirm whether it is true or not," he stated.
Dilip also recalled that after one such rumour surfaced, producer Asit Kumarr Modi had called him to enquire about it. "He asked me what had happened and mentioned that a piece of news was doing the rounds. I told him, 'What can we do? I hardly watch such things,'" the actor shared.
Talking about the iconic show, 'Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah', created by Asit Kumarr Modi and based on Taarak Mehta's famous Gujarati column 'Duniya Ne Undha Chashma', premiered on July 28, 2008.
— IANS
Reader Comments
As a daily viewer since 2010, I've seen so many false rumors about TMKOC. One day they say Tapu Sena is leaving, next day they say Jethalal is upset. It's like these reporters have nothing better to do. Good that Dilipji called them out properly. Bolne ka haq hai unhein! 👏
I agree with his point about reputed media houses. If you run a newspaper or a news channel, you have some responsibility. But at the same time, I feel he could have acknowledged that viewers genuinely feel screen time for Jethalal has reduced lately. Not all criticism is baseless, some fans just miss seeing him more. Just saying. 🤷♀️
Best thing I read today! Social media has become a chaos where anyone can start any rumor. Remember the fake news about Dayaben returning? That was also trending on Twitter. The fact that producer had to call him to ask what happened says a lot. Media should do fact-checking before publishing headlines. Well said Dilip Joshi sahab! 🙌
18 years of TMKOC and still going strong! 🎉 Dilipji is absolutely right. These days everyone wants to break news first, nobody cares about truth. But yaar, ek baar toh socho ki actors bhi insaan hain, unhe bhi bura lagta hai jab unke baare mein aise jhoothi khabarein chalti hain. Respect for speaking up!
While I enjoy watching TMKOC as a Western
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