'Pehle laughter tha, abhi kum..': TMKOC's Baga aka Tanmay Vekaria on viewers liking older episodes of show

Tanmay Vekaria, known to millions as Bagha from Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah, has been a key part of the show's comic fabric for several years. With his quirky expressions and impeccable comic timing, Bagha has become one of the most loved characters in this long-running sitcom. The show, which first aired in 2008, continues to be a staple in Indian households, known for its clean humor, slice-of-life storytelling, and ensemble cast.

In a recent conversation with Subhojit Ghosh, Tanmay addressed a viewpoint that has been echoed by a section of the audience over time. The interviewer brought up how some fans feel that the older episodes of the show were more entertaining, and that with Tappu Sena growing up and several changes in the cast and storylines, the recent episodes might not have the same appeal.

Responding to this, Tanmay shared his own perspective and said, “I do not really agree with that. See, if I am connected to a show, if I am attached to every character, if I am emotionally invested in every story, in every episode, then as an audience, I will watch it with the same feeling.”

He acknowledged that times have changed and so have the viewers. “Yes, definitely, the generation has changed now. So maybe people feel the older ones were better or that the current ones are not as good, or that there used to be more laughter earlier,” he said. “But personally, I do not think that way.”

Yes, definitely, the generation has changed now. So maybe people feel the older ones were better or that the current ones are not as good, or that there used to be more laughter earlier

- Tanmay Vekaria

Tanmay also touched upon the creative aspect of the show, mentioning that not every joke or gag may land as expected. “Sometimes there is a gag we feel will work, but it does not — and that is fine,” he explained. “What matters is that the love people have for the show even today is the same as it was seventeen or eighteen years ago.”

For Tanmay Vakaria, Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah is not just a show, but a shared journey with its loyal audience — one that continues to evolve while keeping its essence intact.