For Kush Shah, Staying Serious Around ‘Jethalal’ Dilip Joshi Was the Real Task
Nearly a year after his exit from the show, Kush Shah has recently spoken about his time on the sets and his thoughts on quitting Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah.
Fans of Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah were taken by surprise last year when Kush Shah, who had portrayed Goli for 16 years, chose to leave the popular sitcom. Almost a year since his departure, Kush has now opened up about his journey on the show and his feelings regarding the decision. He likened his exit to a friendly breakup. Kush also shared fond memories from the sets, particularly his scenes with Dilip Joshi, who plays Jethalal. He revealed that filming with the senior actor was so hilarious that it was difficult for him to control his laughter. Despite trying his best to maintain a serious expression, Kush said it was nearly impossible to keep a straight face during their scenes because the situations were just too funny.
While appearing on the Just Kidding with Sid podcast, the young actor said, “Watch any scene of mine with Dilip sir. Zoom in on my face, I’m struggling to hold back. I just can’t act in those moments. It’s too funny. I end up laughing. I completely lose it. I just can’t stop myself. It’s genuinely that funny.”
Talking about leaving Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah, Kush explained, “They’re like my family. Everyone is so close-knit. I was just talking about things like insecurities. In life, no one else understands me the way they do, because we’ve lived similar lives, because we’re alike. I had never gone through a breakup before, but this felt like one. The kind of breakup that ends on good terms — that’s what it was like. Like, ‘Yaar, now I have to go.’ Taarak Mehta was my first love. It was an amazing journey, I truly enjoyed myself.”
Kush further spoke about how deeply he misses being on the sets of Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah. He shared that having spent 16 years there, the set had become like a second home — a place where he spent more time than his own house. He said he didn’t just learn from the actors, but also picked up a lot from the behind-the-scenes crew, especially the technical staff, whom he considers extremely talented. Over the years, he went through many experiences — sometimes he was teased or felt uncomfortable — but he also received a lot of affection and support. Now, as an adult, he jokes about those times. Looking back, he feels truly lucky. For him, the set wasn’t just a workplace — it felt like home.
