Taarak Mehta's Sonu Aka Palak Sidhwani Accuses Makers Of 'Exploitation': ‘Just Because I Want To Quit…’

Palak Sidhwani, aka Sonu Bhide of 'Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah', has issued a statement accusing the show's producers of mistreatment following a legal notice they served her.

Palak Sidhwani, aka Sonu Bhide of 'Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah', has issued a statement accusing the show's producers of mistreatment

Source : Instagram/@palaksindhwani

Palak Sidhwani, best known for her role as Sonu Bhide in the hit TV show 'Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah', has issued a statement accusing the show's producers of mistreatment following a legal notice they served her. The legal notice alleges that Palak violated her contract, but the actor firmly denies these accusations, claiming the situation escalated after she tried to leave the show. 

Palak Sidhwani aka Sono got legal notice from Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah makers

In her statement, Palak clarified that her departure was voluntary, with her having formally resigned and seeking a peaceful exit from the series. However, the production house, Neela Films, sent her a notice accusing her of engaging in “unauthorised” third-party endorsements and appearances without prior written consent," which was stipulated in her contract. The notice further alleged that despite several warnings, Palak continued these activities, thereby harming both her character and the show’s integrity. 

Palak, however, contended that the contract in question was signed five years ago, during which time the producers were fully aware of her involvement in social media promotions. She asserted that it is only now, after she decided to leave the show, that the production team has raised these issues in an attempt to complicate her exit. 

What Palak said about the makers

Recalling the timeline of events, Palak shared with The Times of India, “I had informed the production house on August 8 about my decision to quit the show. They decided to take some time and then told me that I will be given an official email to which I could mail the resignation letter but that never happened. They delayed approving my resignation and after a few weeks to my surprise I saw articles in media about how I had breached the contract. I signed their contract 5 years ago and they denied giving me a copy of it. I received a copy on September 19, 2024. They had agreed to let me continue brand endorsements and post the pandemic I also started brand endorsements on social media. They didn’t say anything then but after I announced my decision to quit they have started this plan of action. I have also taken legal advise and will follow what’s right for my career. I wanted to quit the show for health reasons and professional growth. I have had several meetings but there is no solution yet. This is exploitation and I never expected this after working with them for five years. Just because I want to quit Taarak Mehta, they are making my exit difficult.” 

Palak, who stepped into the role after Nidhi Bhanushali’s departure, is not the first actor from the long-running show to speak out against the producers. Jennifer Mistry had previously lodged a police complaint against the show’s producer, Asit Kumar Modi, citing harassment. Additionally, Shailesh Lodha, who portrayed the titular character Mr. Mehta for years, has also pursued legal action against Modi, accusing him of withholding payments.