After resolving the legal dispute with actor Shailesh Lodha, Asit Modi, the producer of Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah (TMKOC), has opened up about the issues between them. In a recent interview, Asit clarified that it was inaccurate for Shailesh to claim an outright victory in the lawsuit, as it was actually 'settled with consent'. Previously, in an interview with Bombay Times, Shailesh had proclaimed that receiving his rightful dues from the TMKOC producer 'felt like a battle won'. In response, Asit told ETimes that Shailesh's assertion of winning the case was false, as the court order clearly states that it was settled with the consent of both parties. He also explained that every artist who exits the show needs to follow a set procedure, which involves signing certain documents as evidence that they have been relieved from the show. However, Shailesh had refused to comply with these exit formalities. During the interview, the producer conveyed that he never denied any payment to Shailesh and even reached out to the actor for a meeting in case he didn't agree with the exit documents. Yet, Shailesh opted to approach the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) instead of concluding the exit formalities. Sohil Ramani, the operations head of the production house Neela Film Productions, added that Shailesh left the show without giving a notice. Asit mentioned that during Shailesh's 14-year tenure with the show, there had never been any issues. Thus, his unexpected behaviour during his exit from the show 'surprised and saddened' him. Shailesh Lodha, who portrayed the lead role in the popular TV show for over 14 years, departed from the series in 2022 without disclosing specific reasons. While TMKOC holds the distinction of being one of India's longest-running television shows, it has been mired in controversies concerning unhealthy work environments. Recently, a cast member accused Modi of sexual and mental harassment. However, in a recent interview, Modi refuted these allegations, asserting his "pure heart".
