Actor and poet Shailesh Lodha, best known for his long-standing portrayal of the titular character in Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah, recently sparked a wave of nostalgia on social media by sharing a rare photograph from the mid-1990s. The image features a young Lodha alongside playback singer Sonu Nigam during the early stages of their respective careers. Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah Fame Shailesh Lodha Mourns Father’s Passing With Emotional Post, Says ‘Whatever I Am… I Am Your Shadow’.
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Shailesh Lodha Shares 90s Throwback With Sonu Nigam
The photograph, dated between 1994 and 1995, captures a candid moment on stage where a young Sonu Nigam is seen performing. Lodha, who rose to national fame as a poet before transitioning to television, accompanied the post with a reflective caption about the simplicity of life before the digital age. “I found this picture of 1994–95... a pitara [trunk] of memories opened up,” Lodha wrote. He noted that during those years, there was neither a "terror of science's inventions" nor a heavy dependence on technology. He emphasised that while their "costumes and style" have evolved over three decades, their mutual "affection and respect" remain unchanged.
Sonu Nigam Recalls Jodhpur Debut
The post drew a quick response from Sonu Nigam, who provided specific details about the event. The singer identified the location as Jodhpur in 1995, noting that it was likely his first time performing in the city. “I remember my parents were there with me too,” Nigam commented, adding that singer Sujata Trivedi also accompanied them for the show. He described the era as a time of "beautiful innocent memories." Lodha responded to the comment, confirming the details and reminiscing about "how beautiful life used to be." TMKOC’s Shailesh Lodha Wins Rs 1 Crore Lawsuit Against Show’s Producer Asit Modi.
Professional Backgrounds
Shailesh Lodha has maintained a versatile career in the Indian entertainment industry. Before his 14-year stint on Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah (2008-2022), he gained recognition on the poetry show Wah Wah and appeared as a contestant on Comedy Circus. Following his high-profile exit from the hit sitcom in 2022, which involved a legal settlement regarding unpaid dues, Lodha has returned to the screen. He currently appears in the fictional series Advocate Anjali Awasthi and continues to host poetry-based programs, including Waah Bhai Waah. The interaction between the two stars serves as a reminder of their shared roots in the live performance circuit of the 1990s, long before they became household names in their respective fields.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 15, 2026 03:47 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).













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