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New Dayaben soon? TMKOC makers find Disha Vakani’s replacement
Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah fans have been missing Daya Bhabhi aka Disha Vakani in the show. It has been years since the actress has been absent from the show, and with reports coming in that Disha will not return to the comedy-drama, it has been learnt that Asit Modi, who had been conducting auditions for the character of Dayaben, has finally liked someone, and the team is currently holding mock shoots with her. Makers found a new Dayaben? A source close to the makers of the much-loved show has told News18, “Yes, it is right. Asit ji had been looking for a new Dayaben, and recently, one of the auditions impressed him a lot. Mock shoots with the actress are underway. It’s been around a week that she has been here, shooting with us," the source said. “I am still trying. I believe Disha Vakani can’t be back. She has two children. She is like my sister. Even today, we have a very close relationship with her family. My sister Disha Vakani has tied a Rakhi to me. Her father and brother are also family to me. You work together for 17 years, and it becomes your extended family," Asit has earlier said in an interview with the portal. About Disha Vakani While working on Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah, she got married to a Mumbai-based chartered accountant named Mayur Padia on 24 November 2015. In 2017, Disha took a break from the show and welcomed her first child, a baby girl named Stuti. The couple had their second baby, a boy, in May 2022. The current track highlights that Daya is at her maternal home in Ahmedabad and is often on religious tours with her mother. According to reports, Disha had planned to return to Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah after her daughter Stuti turned 6 months to 1 year old. However, during discussions, the actress reportedly asked for a revised paycheque and put forth conditions that could enable her to balance her professional life and personal responsibilities. On the contrary, certain media reports claimed that Disha had to cut short her career as her husband, Mayur, wanted her to focus on raising their child and be at home. However, there’s no clarification on this. Disha hasn’t given any statement or update on her return to Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah.
29 March,2025 08:22 AM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Telly Tattle: Look who’s back on TV
Tigmanshu Dhulia is set to reprise his role as the notorious Barbosa, leader of the Eye Gang, in Sony Entertainment Television’s hit show CID. The show’s team tells mid-day that after a hiatus of over six years, Barbosa will return with a mission to dismantle the CID bureau. On his return to the cult show, Tigmanshu said, “I return with a clear mission, I am fully prepared.”
28 March,2025 09:19 AM IST | Mumbai | The Hitlist Team
After quitting Taarak Mehta, Jennifer Mistry to make her comeback with OTT
Jennifer Mistry, who quit Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah in 2023, is planning her comeback. At a recently concluded award ceremony in Mumbai, she expressed her desire to do “some good work” in the second phase of her acting career. The actor admitted to being absent from the scene due to personal and familial responsibilities, but revealed she is ready to return. “Now I am starting off again. I want to do some web series,” she said. After a two-year hiatus, Jennifer is eager to revive her acting career and explore new opportunities.
26 March,2025 07:13 AM IST | Mumbai | The Hitlist Team
Telly Tattle: Srikant Dwivedi adopts a cow
Shiv Shakti-Tap Tyag Tandav actor Srikant Dwivedi has adopted a cow. “Since childhood, I’ve been taught how to look after cows and their calves,” he says.
25 March,2025 07:35 AM IST | Mumbai | The Hitlist Team
Aasif Sheikh faints on Bhabiji Ghar Par Hain set, rushed back to Mumbai
Aasif Sheikh, who is known for his role of Vibhuti Narayan Mishra in Bhabi Ji Ghar Par Hain, has been rushed to the hospital after he suddenly fainted during the shooting of the show today, on March 24. Reports suggest that Aasif was shooting for his show Bhabi Ji Ghar Par Hain when the incident took place. He was immediately taken to the hospital for first aid, and after receiving medication at the shoot location, he was promptly brought back to Mumbai. A source close to the development told Indian Express that the 60-year-old is feeling better now. The source revealed to the news portal, “He fainted on the sets due to exhaustion and is doing fine now. He was quickly rushed to the doctor for proper medical attention.” According to a Zoom source, “The shoot was exhausting and had intense fighting scenes. During one such scene, Aasif suddenly felt unwell and collapsed on the set. After receiving initial medical attention, he was immediately brought to Mumbai for further treatment.” While he has been brought back to Mumbai, any further update on his health condition is still awaited. Bhabi Ji Ghar Par Hain writer passes away It was a tough day on the Bhabi Ji Ghar Par Hain set. Earlier during the day, India Forums revealed that the serial’s writer, Manoj Santoshi, passed away after battling liver cancer for a long time. “Manoj passed away early morning today in his hometown Aligarh. His family was present with him,” the source said. About Aasif Sheikh’s Bhabi Ji Ghar Par Hai Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai is a comedy show that revolves around two neighbouring couples, the Mishras and the Tiwaris, in which the husbands are attracted to each other's wives and attempt various ultimately unsuccessful and hilarious techniques to impress them. Aasif's character, Vibhuti Narayan Mishra, is an unsuccessful insurance agent. He is Anita's husband and is often called 'Nalla' for being unemployed. He has fallen for the simple-minded Angoori Tiwari, his neighbour. He is known to be highly educated but still won't do a regular job due to his ego. His plans to woo Angoori usually fail due to her naivety.
24 March,2025 08:53 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Rupali Ganguly attends paparazzo’s wedding: ‘Maine ek saal pehle vada kiya tha’
Rupali Ganguly has been in the headlines for quite some time for all the wrong reasons. First, her stepdaughter called her out and made several allegations against her. Later, reports surfaced that several actors have been leaving Anupamaa because of her. However, recently, Rupali did something special and won hearts. Yesterday, a video of Rupali Ganguly attending the wedding celebration of a paparazzo surfaced on social media. Rupali Ganguly attends paparazzo wedding Recently, she attended the wedding of a paparazzo, taking time out to celebrate the special occasion of someone who has been capturing her professional milestones for years. She congratulated the newlyweds, spent time with their family, and ensured they felt special on their big day. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Instant Bollywood (@instantbollywood) Unlike a typical celebrity appearance, Rupali Ganguly's visit was personal and filled with emotion. She greeted everyone with a warm smile, took pictures, and engaged in conversations. Her presence turned the wedding into a memorable affair for those in attendance. She made sure to give her time and attention to the couple, adding a personal touch to the celebration. For the function, Rupali wore a beautiful multicoloured saree and paired the six yards with a yellow blouse. The actress tied her hair in a stylish way and further accessorized her look with stunning ornaments. Rupali kept her makeup minimal to let her natural beauty shine. While talking to the couple, she congratulated them on their wedding and said, “Aap mujhe bohot pyare ho. Maine ek saal pehle vada kiya tha ki jab bhi shadi hogi, main aaungi.” Rupali Ganguly on work front On the professional front, Rupali Ganguly is currently seen playing the titular role in Star Plus' popular show Anupamaa, which has consistently topped TRP charts. Produced by Rajan Shahi and Deepa Shahi under the banner of Director's Kut Productions, the daily soap is a remake of Star Jalsha's Bengali series Sreemoyee. The show premiered on 13 July 2020 on StarPlus and streams digitally on Disney+ Hotstar. Ganguly is widely recognized for her portrayal of Monisha Singh Sarabhai in the popular sitcom Sarabhai vs Sarabhai. She has appeared in numerous successful television series, portraying Sujata in Ek Packet Umeed (2008) and Pinky Khanna Ahuja in Parvarrish – Kuchh Khattee Kuchh Meethi (2011–2013), following which she took a sabbatical from acting for seven years and returned with Anupamaa.
22 March,2025 07:35 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Ankit Gupta fuels breakup rumours with Priyanka, backs out from upcoming project
The rumours of television couple Priyanka Chahar Choudhary and Ankit Gupta parting ways have been in the headlines for quite some time, but neither of the two actors has broken their silence on the ongoing reports. However, in a recent development, Ankit has backed out from the show Tere Ho Jaayein Hum, which was set to feature him alongside Priyanka. In a recent interview, Ankit revealed that he cannot commit to the project right now. In an interview with Bollywood Bubble, Ankit shared that he is no longer part of the project backed by Ravi-Sargun’s Dreamiyata. The Udaariyaan actor said, "Yes, I backed out of the project with Ravi-Sargun. I don’t think I would be able to commit to that project right now. Maybe I need some time for myself to rejuvenate and recharge. As I said, that’s probably why I won’t do Khatron Ke Khiladi this year either. I’m just taking time for myself, so I’m not thinking about work at the moment." Priyanka & Ankit part ways? Priyanka and Ankit first met on the sets of Colors' popular show Udaariyaan, and since then, they have been quite close friends. Later, the two went on to participate in the same season of Bigg Boss, where their chemistry became the talk of the town, and fans started shipping them together. Now, with them unfollowing each other and reports of their alleged breakup gaining momentum, fans are quite distressed and wish to know the reality from the couple. While it is true that Priyanka and Ankit no longer follow each other on Instagram, they still haven’t deleted the pictures and videos of each other that they had shared on their social media accounts. The couple, who recently announced their new music video together, Tere Ho Jaayein Hum, have kept all their pictures with each other on their accounts as they are. Priyanka & Ankit had an ugly fight? While there is no confirmation from either of the two stars, a report by Vicky Lalwani's channel claims they had an ugly fight before deciding to end matters. Priyanka and Ankit have a massive fan base who wish to see them together forever.
22 March,2025 04:17 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Exclusive
Karan Kundrra BREAKS SILENCE on wedding with Tejasswi Prakash this year
The news of Karan Kundrra and Tejasswi Prakash getting married this year took the internet by storm. After Tejasswi’s mom announced that the actress would tie the knot in 2025, the internet was buzzing with excitement. To confirm this news, Mid-Day got in touch with Karan Kundrra to know if the wedding is on the cards this year for TejRan. While talking to Karan, we asked him about the marriage plans, and turning the conversation into a rather hilarious chat, Karan said, “I think woh AI tha, AI (Artificial Intelligence). Aajkal AI itna khatarnak ho gaya hai na.” But when we told him that Tejasswi’s mom would hit him for this answer, he laughed and said, “Aunty is too sidha, she won’t hit me.” Further, when we questioned him if the wedding is on cards for him and his lady love Tejasswi Prakash this year, the actor said, “Arre mujhe kya pata, mere papa aa rahe hain, unse puch lena. Ye sari baatein bachchon se thodi puchte hain.” About Tejasswi & Karan’s wedding plans Tejasswi Prakash and Karan Kundrra have been in a relationship for quite some time now. The couple, who met inside the Bigg Boss house, fell in love with each other on the reality show, and since then, they have been in a happy relationship. Now, it looks like the couple is all set to take their relationship to the next level. Recently, they sparked wedding rumors after Farah Khan questioned Tejasswi about her marriage plans, and that is when her mom confirmed that it is set to happen this year. Farah Khan asked Tejasswi’s mother, “Shaadi kab hogi?” Without hesitation, Tejasswi’s mother responded, “Issi saal ho jaaegi,” confirming that the wedding will take place this year. This confirmation made Farah smile as she congratulated Teja, who was left blushing. But this didn't stop Farah from teasing Tejasswi. While talking to the mother-daughter duo, Farah said, "Ladke ka naam 'Karan' hogaya hai na," teasing Tejasswi and hinting at Karan Kundrra. She also joked about how Chef Vikas Khanna would be upset to hear this news and said, "Hamara Vikku, bechara humein chod ke kya chala gaya? Teja ke haanth peele ho gaye." Tejasswi wants a court marriage Earlier, Tejasswi, on Celebrity MasterChef, talked about her wish to have a small and intimate marriage and said, “I am not big on that. I am okay with a normal court marriage. Hum log phir ghumenge, phirenge, aish karenge types."
21 March,2025 09:03 PM IST | Mumbai | Shachi Chaturvedi
Exclusive
Karan gives THIS advice to Nia & Arjun Bijlani after returning to Laughter Chefs
Karan Kundrra has joined Laughter Chefs Unlimited Entertainment and fans are going crazy with his entry into the show. As Karan is all set to add spice to the ultimate recipe of "Dinner-tainment", the actor, in an exclusive chat with us at mid-day, opened up about how he feels on his return, the big surprise, and how it’s not a competition between him and his lady love Tejasswi Prakash when it comes to Laughter Chefs vs Celebrity Master Chefs. Karan Kundrra on his return to Laughter Chefs Karan Kundrra started the conversation by sharing how he doesn’t feel like he was away from the show for even a bit and said, “It doesn’t feel like I was away for a bit. The day we started, it was like muscle memory. It felt like I hadn’t gone anywhere. I even said this to Krushna Bhai, 'Aisa lag hi nahi raha hai ki 2-3 mahine ki break hui hai.'” When asked about the outpour of love on his return to the show, Karan called it complete madness and said, “It’s like something has been activated, and suddenly there’s an outpour of love. It’s not just from my fans but also from the fans of the show. They are extremely happy, and now with my return, they’re saying, ‘Arjun ko bhi lao!’” Karan Kundrra’s ultimate advice to Nia Sharma & Arjun Bijlani Karan’s pairing with Arjun Bijlani in the first season of Laughter Chefs was most loved. When we asked Karan if he misses Arjun, the actor shared the advice he has given to his ex-co-star. Kundrra revealed, “I recently met Arjun during the Holi celebration at Ankita and Vicky’s party. I even met Nia there, and I told them both, 'Tum dono zyada natak mat karna, aur aa jana.' It’s not like there’s anything different with the new people—be it Elvish, Abhishek, or Chintu—because I’ve known them before. So, it didn’t feel like the dynamics were any different. It was just like an extension—it felt so seamless.” The ultimate surprise While revealing how it was an actual surprise and even Bharti Singh, who was supposed to announce his return, only got to know it the last minute, Karan said, “The Colors team took massive care while pulling off this surprise. The paparazzi were not allowed inside. I wasn’t given any vanity—I had to get ready at my house and wait in the car outside the set in Powai. Only after everyone had entered the set was I allowed to go in. Even my staff wasn’t allowed on set because if the other artists' staff had seen them, they would have figured out it was me.” Laughter Chefs vs Celebrity Master Chefs On a rather lighter note, in conclusion, when we asked Karan if it’s a battle at home because Tejasswi is currently in a rival show, Celebrity Master Chefs, he laughed and said, “I look at it in a different way. I have told her, ‘Tu Monday to Friday sambhal, main Saturday aur Sunday dekh leta hoon.’”
21 March,2025 08:20 PM IST | Mumbai | Shachi Chaturvedi
Edin Rose reveals THIS is the most difficult thing for her during Ramadan
Edin Rose recently made headlines for her stint in Salman Khan-hosted controversial reality show Bigg Boss 18. Edin gained significant attention for her fights with the show’s winner, Karan Veer Mehra. After the show, the reality TV star has been spotted at several media events, but this month is a little different as she is celebrating Ramadan and fasting. For Edin Rose, Ramadan is a time of reflection, self-discipline, and profound life lessons. Through fasting, managing work commitments, and reflecting on her own privileges, she has gained valuable insights that have reshaped her perspective on food, empathy, and gratitude. Recently, Edin Rose opened up about what she learned from Ramadan and shared, “For a few years, I used to indulge in unhealthy, fried food, but this year has been different. I’ve started focusing on simpler meals because I’ve realized that Ramadan isn’t about indulging in lavish, fried foods but about fasting and breaking the fast with whatever is available.” Edin chooses healthy Iftaar over fried food Instead of heavy dishes, Edin now values the simplicity of her Iftaar. “One thing I absolutely need on my Iftaar table is fresh juice—I simply can’t do without it,” she added. The most profound lesson Rose has learned this Ramadan is the awareness of her own privilege. She recalled an experience during a shoot in Chennai, where she couldn’t break her fast on time and had to open it with pani puri two hours later. "It was a tough experience, but later, I came across a video of a family who could only break their fast with water because they couldn’t afford anything else. That moment truly humbled me. It made me realize how privileged I am to have access to food—any food of my choice—while so many people struggle. This experience deepened my empathy for the less fortunate, and I believe it has been my biggest lesson this Ramadan," she said. The most difficult part of Ramadan for Edin Fasting during Ramadan while working can be difficult, especially when food isn’t available on time. Rose reflected, “The biggest challenge for me is not getting food on time and not always being able to pray on schedule. I have no complaints. Fasting is about being able to continue with daily responsibilities while staying committed to the practice.” She then added, “There are laborers who work under the scorching sun, in construction, and still fast—so what do I have to complain about?”
21 March,2025 06:43 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
5 reasons why Laughter Chefs is the ultimate recipe for 'Dinn-Er-tainment'
When the commotion of a kitchen meets the sizzle of a punchline, you know something extraordinary is cooking! ‘Laughter Chefs Unlimited Entertainment’ is a riotous blend of culinary challenges and comedy, where celebrity chefs chop, sauté, and stumble their way through bizarre dishes — all while serving side-splitting laughter. Here are five reasons why this fiery fusion is a must-watch on the television landscape: 1. The first-ever culinary-comedy crossover Here’s a departure from traditional cooking shows! ‘Laughter Chefs Unlimited Entertainment’ sets the stage for a laugh riot where kitchen chaos meets comedic gold. By blending the unpredictability of cooking with punchlines, this show delivers a unique flavour of entertainment that keeps audiences hooked — one sizzling joke at a time. 2. Celebrity contestants who bring the kitchen down From kitchen mishaps to explosive chemistry with their culinary counterparts, the celebrity contestants keep the show ticking with their antics. Whether they're flipping roti or seasoning a dish, their camaraderie with fellow contestants creates spontaneous comedic moments and hilarity that give the show its unforgettable charm. 3. Eccentric dishes that steal the spotlight Ever heard of Veg Egg Curry or Katahal Naan Bombs? Neither had the celebrity contestants! The show takes culinary creativity to the next level with mind-boggling dishes like Patthar Wale Suran Shami Kebab and Singhade Ke Vade. As celebrities sweat it out over these puzzling recipes, viewers can't help but wonder — Will they nail it or fail it? 4. The dynamic duo: Bharti Singh & Harpal Singh Sokhi Bharti Singh’s infectious energy turns the set into a homey kitchen where laughter bubbles. Meanwhile, Chef Coach Harpal Singh Sokhi guides the contestants with his signature charm, offering quirky tips, playful taunts, and light-hearted critique. Together, they sprinkle warmth and wisdom on every episode — and if celebrity contestants impress, they earn those coveted stars that feel more heavenly than dessert. 5. Themed episodes that keep the fun fresh From festive feasts to Bollywood-inspired culinary capers, each episode carries a unique theme that spices up the cooking battles. Whether contestants are whipping up sweets for Holi or creating savoury sensations in a tribute to films, every theme sparks fresh banter and memorable moments.
20 March,2025 04:59 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent