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Sonalika’s character in TMKOC embodies the essence of a traditional yet modern Indian homemaker, balancing family responsibilities and business aspirations.
Sonalika has been a part of TMKOC since 2008. (Photo Credits: Instagram)
Sonalika Joshi became a household name after her appearance as Madhvi Bhide in the popular comedy show Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah. She has been a part of the series since its inception in 2008. Her character in the sitcom embodies the essence of a traditional yet modern Indian homemaker, balancing family responsibilities and business aspirations. Recently, during an interview, the actress recalled how she bagged the role. She also revealed that Mandar Chandwadkar was not supported to play her on-screen husband, Atmaram Bhide. Another actor was in talks about the role.
Speaking to Rajshri Marathi, the TV actress said, “Shailesh Datar is the reason I bagged the role in Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah. He had gone to audition, but he was also in talks for another show, and Taarak Mehta’s team wasn’t allowing an adjustment for him to do two shows, so he decided to drop the offer for Bhide’s character and choose another show.”
“He then told me that there was a role for Bhide’s wife and that I should audition for it. That is when I thought of auditioning for Madhavi on the show. I was hesitant at first, but after Shailesh recommended it, I decided to give it a try,” she added.
Sonalika also further talked about the significant challenges she faced during the auditions as she was juggling between her career and parenting responsibilities. She said, “My daughter was quite young when the audition came. She was only about 4-5 years old. Leaving her alone was quite difficult for me. That is why I used to decline offers and avoid attending auditions. We used to live in Kandivali, so travelling to Andheri and back was challenging. We did not have a car back then, but we were fine financially.”
“I had a feeling, as Shailesh recommended and the audition was in Kandivali, so I decided to go. I asked my neighbours to look for Aarya for an hour, and I’ll return shortly after the audition. I quickly prepared for the character once Shailesh described it to me,” said Sonalika.
For the audition, Sonalika got dressed in a traditional paithani saree and opted for a typical Maharashtrian look, which resonated with her character. “The Maharashtrian look worked wonders for me; he chose me without going through the entire process. I consider it destiny that I trusted Shailesh’s words and gave the audition. Taarak Mehta would not have happened if I had turned it down, as I had previously,” the actress said.
Shailesh Datar is a prominent figure in the Indian Television industry, known for his work in Marathi language serials.
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