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On Sunday, the name of IPL’s robotic dog was chosen through an online poll and revealed before the clash between Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings.
Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah showered love for IPL’s robotic dog ‘Champak.’ (Photo Credits: Instagram)
Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah (TMKOC) fans have been ecstatic about the name of the robot dog that debuted in this year’s Indian Premier League (IPL). Recently, the robotic dog was officially named Champak, leaving all TMKOC fans amused. Users quickly associated the dog’s name with Champaklal Gada, portrayed by actor Amit Bhatt, in the popular comedy series.
Just before Sunday’s highly anticipated encounter between the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Mumbai Indians (MI), the name was publicly revealed on social media following an online fan poll conducted by the organisers. According to the IPL’s official statement, Champak was the crowd favourite, topping the poll and igniting a flurry of online comments. Numerous internet users, especially those who enjoy Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah, flocked to social media to share their laughter and admiration.
The post struck a chord with the IPL and TMKOC fans, who shared their epic reaction in the comment section. One of them wrote, “Jethalal ji Main Na Sehta.” Another fan added, “I think the people who voted for this name are TMKOC fans.” One more comment read, “Once upon a time, Champak said, (sin) arey arey nahane ja nahane,” referring to one of the iconic scenes of TMKOC.
Moving on, IPL 2025 has taken a bold step by presenting a lifelike robotic dog that can run, jump, walk and even stand on its hind legs. Additionally, the robot has a camera, which enables it to provide distinctive visual viewpoints of the match.
The robotic dog was initially shown off before last week’s Delhi Capitals vs. Mumbai Indians game at the Arun Jaitley Stadium. Danny Morrison, a former cricket player and commentator from New Zealand, presented the robot in an IPL video, referring to it as his new broadcast companion. “It can run, walk and greet, but most importantly, it has the vision of a pet,” he stated.
Champak has played several roles since its debut, including serving as the coin-bearer during this week’s Mumbai Indians vs. Sunrisers Hyderabad game. It has delighted cricket fans by bringing a playful, tech-savvy twist to the matchday experience with its camera that offers behind-the-scenes looks and its eccentric presence on the field.
