The popular television sitcom Bhabiji Ghar Par Hain is back in the news, but this time for a brewing off-screen controversy. Shilpa Shinde, who is making a much-publicized return as Angoori Bhabhi in Bhabhi Ji Ghar Par Hain 2.0, has ignited a firestorm with her recent remarks seemingly criticizing her successor, Shubhangi Atre. Her comments have drawn a sharp and strong reaction from actor Pankit Thakker, a close friend of Atre.
The Controversial Comments and the Backstory
In a recent interview, Shilpa Shinde, who originally played Angoori Bhabhi, spoke about the character's portrayal during her decade-long absence from the show. While not naming Shubhangi Atre directly, her comments were widely interpreted as a dig at Atre's performance, particularly her comic timing. Shinde exited the popular sitcom in 2016, after which Shubhangi Atre stepped into the iconic role and played it for nearly ten years until Shinde's recent return.
The core of the controversy lies in Shinde's implication about how the character should be played, which many perceived as undermining Atre's successful long-term stint. This has not gone down well with several sections of the industry and the audience, setting the stage for a public rebuttal.
Pankit Thakker's Fiery Defense of Shubhangi Atre
Actor Pankit Thakker, currently seen in the TV show Saru and a known friend of Shubhangi Atre, has launched a strong counterattack against Shilpa Shinde's statements. He took to subtly slamming Shinde's perspective on competition and legacy in the television industry.
"Competition is for people who are still trying to find their way," Thakker stated. He elaborated, "In this industry, anyone can have a 'hit' for a moment, but very few can become a 'Legend' for 10 years. I don’t compare legends with opinions." He further added a pointed challenge, saying, "When you have the capacity to run this show for a decade from now on, then we can talk about competition over a 'cup of tea' in 2035."
Speculations and a Tribute to Atre's Character
Pankit Thakker also hinted at the possible untold reasons behind the casting change, suggesting the narrative might not be one-sided. "Who knows the real reason behind the change in the show. Maybe the Producers wanted Shubhangi, but she didn't want to continue giving her 10 years.. even though she might want to explore life beyond playing the same role," he speculated. He clarified this was his personal calculation, indicating there might be more to Shinde's return than meets the eye.
Concluding his defense, Thakker painted a glowing picture of Shubhangi Atre's personal and professional ethics. "I have known Shubhangi for many years and she has this habit of being kind to everyone.. she never enjoys degrading anyone.. she's beautiful in and out," he said, drawing a clear contrast with the current situation.
This public spat has certainly added an unexpected layer of drama around the relaunch of Bhabiji Ghar Par Hain 2.0. While Shilpa Shinde has reclaimed her famous role, the controversy highlights the delicate dynamics of recasting in long-running TV series and the strong bonds formed between co-stars over years of work.
