Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah (TMKOC) has been a staple of Indian television since 2008, captivating audiences with its humorous take on everyday life in Mumbai’s fictional Gokuldham Society. The show’s enduring popularity is not just due to its witty writing and relatable scenarios but also the memorable performances of its ensemble cast. Over the years, the main actors have become household names, and their salaries reflect both their talent and the show’s incredible success.
Below, we break down the per-episode earnings of the principal cast members, based on the latest available information from reputable entertainment sources.
Dilip Joshi (Jethalal Gada)
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- Salary: ₹1.5–2 lakh per episode
- Role: The lovable and often exasperated electronics shop owner, Jethalal is the heart of TMKOC. Dilip Joshi’s portrayal has made him the highest-paid actor on the show, with his fee rivaling that of many Bollywood stars.
- Why so high? His central role and immense popularity make him indispensable to the show’s formula.
Munmun Dutta (Babita Iyer)
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- Salary: ₹35,000–75,000 per episode (most sources cite ₹50,000–75,000)
- Role: Babita Ji, the charming and sophisticated neighbor, is a fan favorite, especially for her on-screen chemistry with Jethalal.
- Range explained: Some sources mention a lower end (₹35,000), but the consensus is that her current rate is at the higher end of the spectrum.
Amit Bhatt (Champaklal Gada/Bapuji)
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- Salary: ₹70,000–80,000 per episode
- Role: As Jethalal’s wise and sometimes mischievous father, Amit Bhatt’s performance is a key pillar of the show’s humor and emotional depth.
Mandar Chandwadkar (Atmaram Tukaram Bhide)
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- Salary: ₹80,000 per episode
- Role: The strict but lovable secretary of Gokuldham Society, Bhide is known for his catchphrase “hamare zamane mein” and his frequent squabbles with Jethalal.
Tanuj Mahashabde (Krishnan Iyer)
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- Salary: ₹65,000–80,000 per episode (most sources cite ₹65,000)
- Role: The scientist husband of Babita Ji, Iyer’s rivalry with Jethalal and his quirky personality have made him an integral part of the show.
Shyam Pathak (Popatlal Pandey)
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- Salary: ₹60,000 per episode
- Role: The perpetually bachelor reporter, Popatlal’s comic desperation for marriage is a running gag that never fails to amuse.
Sonalika Joshi (Madhavi Bhide)
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- Salary: ₹35,000 per episode
- Role: Bhide’s entrepreneurial wife, famous for her home-made pickles and papads, is a beloved supporting character.
Tapu Sena (Children’s Group)
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- Salary: ₹10,000–20,000 per episode (most commonly ₹10,000–15,000)
- Role: The group of Gokuldham’s kids, including Tapu, Gogi, Goli, Sonu, and Pinku, are central to many storylines and festivals. Their pay reflects both their age and their importance to the ensemble.
Other Key Cast Members (Past and Present)
- Disha Vakani (Daya Jethalal Gada): The original Dayaben reportedly earned ₹1.5 lakh per episode during her tenure, matching Jethalal’s pay.
- Shailesh Lodha (Taarak Mehta): The titular narrator and Jethalal’s confidant, Lodha was paid around ₹1 lakh per episode before he left the show in 2022.
Why Do TMKOC Actors Earn So Much?
The salaries of TMKOC actors are among the highest in Indian television for several reasons:
- Longevity: With over 15 years on air, the show’s consistent TRP ratings have ensured steady revenue for producers and generous pay for the cast.
- Cultural Impact: TMKOC is not just a show; it’s a phenomenon. Its characters are instantly recognizable, and catchphrases have entered everyday conversation.
- Ensemble Value: While Dilip Joshi is the highest-paid, the show’s success relies on the chemistry and contributions of the entire cast, justifying their substantial per-episode fees.
Net Worth and Financial Impact
Some actors have amassed significant wealth thanks to their TMKOC earnings:
- Dilip Joshi: Estimated net worth of ₹43 crore.
- Munmun Dutta: Around ₹30 crore.
- Amit Bhatt: Approximately ₹16.4 crore.
- Tanuj Mahashabde, Mandar Chandwadkar, Sonalika Joshi: Each with net worths in the ₹10–30 crore range.
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