Taarak Mehta's Bhide aka Mandar Chandwadkar reveals his co-star Madhavi aka Sonalika Joshi had suggested his name for the show

Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah's Aatmaram Bhide has been one of the most iconic characters on the show. In a recent podcast, Mandar Chandwadkar got candid about how he bagged the role in Taarak Mehta, he shared that his former co-star, who then plays his wife Madhavi aka Sonalika Joshi, suggested his name for the role.
Talking about helping the new Sonu aka Khushi Mali
When Khushi recently joined the show, Sonalika and I made sure that we helped her with the character. We often guide her on how Sonu would react in the show and help her develop the character together.
Mandar reveals that Sonalika had suggested his name for Bhide
Yes, in fact Sonalika had only suggested my name for Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah. When she had auditioned for the show, she was told that they were searching for a Marathi actor for her husband's role. She had suggested 2-3 names and one of them was me. I am thankful to those actors who refused the role, and luckily, I got it. The rest is history.
On the fans' love
We are not like other celebrities, but we receive a lot of love. I have come across fans who have asked me, 'aap humein kaise nahi jaante, hum toh aapko roz dekhte hai.' That is innocent love and we are really grateful for it.
His family's support towards his career
My family has been extremely supportive, since the day I decided to enter the acting field, they have always been supportive. My wife has been a strong pillar of support, being in the same industry, she looked after our son and managed our home, keeping her career aside. All of this has been possible because of my family and their support.

Mandar on never thinking about quitting Taarak
The main reason why I never left Taarak Mehta is job satisfaction. Even after 17 years, I have enjoyed myself on the set. I don't find my character or my job monotonous. On the contrary, all of us in the cast of the show have become a strong family that has no ego clashes. Instead, we offer better scenes to each other. I get to experience amazing humour on a daily basis. We get to work with stalwarts on our show. Humare show ko blessings mile hai, appreciation se zyada. In 17 years, despite ups and downs, we have been consistent and positive.
Mandar shares what the role was described to him
When I was called for the audition for Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah, I was briefed that this man is the society's secretary who is very disciplined and he was proud of the work he does. Not a lot of people know but 'Main Aatmaram Tukaram Bhide, Gokuldhaam ka ekameva secretary' was an impromptu dialogue that I did in the audition and the makers loved it so much that it became my takia kalam.
Mandar Chandwadkar is a popular Indian television actor best known for portraying Aatmaram Tukaram Bhide in the long-running sitcom Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah. Born on July 27, 1976, he initially worked as a mechanical engineer before following his passion for acting. He began his career in Marathi theatre and television, earning recognition for his comic timing and natural performances. His role as Bhide, a strict yet lovable teacher and secretary of Gokuldham Society, has made him a household name. Apart from acting, Mandar is known for his positive outlook and engaging social media presence. His dedication to the entertainment industry continues to win him admiration from fans across India.