I thought Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah would wrap up in a year or two, says Babita aka Munmun Dutta

A self-confessed media shy Munmun Dutta poured her heart out during a candid tete-e-tete with TimesofIndia.com. The Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chasmah actress, who’s seen in the role of Babita Iyer, spoke about dedicating a decade of her life to the show, marriage plans, online trolling and much more in an exclusive never read before confessions. By: Sukarna Mondal

None of us had expected the phenomenal success we have achieved. I might have dedicated 10 years of my life to this show but I have also gained a lot. Love, affection, fame, reputation, my house and car… I don’t complain. Photo: Instagram

It does get monotonous. As an actor you want to try out various things and explore other genres. But if you see the bigger picture, I feel I am a part of a great show.

No, I never felt like quitting the show. I haven’t reached that saturation point yet, where I feel like leaving the show. But I do feel like doing something else, maybe I will. But not quitting it as of now.

I am not very different from Babita Iyer. When you play any character you always have small traits of yourself in the reel character. The only big difference is that Babita is married and I am not. Photo: Instagram

With a big grin on her face, Munmun said, “No, no! Nothing as of now. But when I do, you’ll get to know.” Photo: Instagram

When I came to Mumbai, I wanted to act in movies. When Taarak was offered to me, I was skeptical. I thought that if I sign this television show, I’ll get stuck in this and won’t be able to go for film or ad auditions. I thought the show would wrap up in a year or two. Who knew that it would become a 10-11 years journey. Coming back to Bollywood, I still harbour dreams to act in a film. Off late, I have become very laid back and not making much effort. My work is out there for makers to see. Photo: Instagram

Which woman doesn’t face it in her normal life? My married and unmarried friends are always hitting on me… but in a harmless and nice way. My friends tell me, ‘oh I have a big crush on you’. Photo: Instagram

I have faced many such online trolls. My face often gets morphed and used at some lewd images and messages. I have started taking it in my stride. I give a stern reply to them and then block. I always try to give it back to them. I switch of my comments section or delete them. I don’t want to have followers, who will spread hate. I will be happy if I just have one follower, who will be a genuine person. Photo: Instagram

I am media shy. I try to keep my life guarded. I don’t call paps at the airport or when I am out for dinner with friends. I am fiercely protective about my personal life. I like to maintain that balance between my personal and professional life. I only show that part of me which I want them to know. Photo: Instagram

I love animals and I go lengths to take care of them. I do a lot of things for their welfare. Sometimes I cook food and carry dabbas to my set and feed the stray dogs. I take care of around 25 dogs. I have also sponsored education of a few girls. Photo: Instagram

I have visited around 35-40 countries. I am a born traveler and a complete nomad. I think when Taarak will end, I’ll buy a one-way ticket and go to any place and return after a year or a half. Photo: Instagram

I am a very boring person. I wake up early and hit the gym by 5.30-6am. Then I spend time with my cats. I am also a complete movie buff. I can watch four movies back-to-back. I have a very normal routine. Photo: Instagram