KKN Gurugram Desk | One of India’s longest-running and most loved television shows, Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah (TMKOC), has seen several cast changes over its incredible journey. But some actors, despite their absence, continue to live in the hearts of fans. Among them is the late Kavi Kumar Azad, who played the iconic role of Dr. Hansraj Hathi until his untimely death in 2018. For the first time since his passing, co-star Kush Shah—who plays the role of Goli—has shared a heartfelt tribute.

Kavi Kumar Azad: Remembering the Original Dr. Hathi

Kavi Kumar Azad was not just a beloved television actor, but a poet, entrepreneur, and a vibrant personality who touched many lives. His portrayal of Dr. Hathi in TMKOC was lauded for its humor, warmth, and cultural relevance. When Azad passed away due to cardiac arrest in July 2018, fans across the country mourned deeply.

Actor Nirmal Soni stepped in to continue the character of Dr. Hathi. However, even years later, the original Dr. Hathi remains irreplaceable in the hearts of both fans and his fellow actors.

Kush Shah’s Emotional Revelation: “I Didn’t Cry, But I Miss Him Every Day”

In a recent interview with ETimes, Kush Shah opened up about Kavi Kumar Azad’s passing and how it impacted him personally.

“When Azad uncle passed away, I didn’t shed a single tear,” Kush said. “I kept asking myself why I wasn’t crying. I’ve lost people I’ve been close to before, but with him, I didn’t feel emotional in the way people expect. Later, I realized that I grieve differently. I don‘t cry; I think. I remember him in every scene. I wonder what he would have done if he were here.”

This honest confession sheds light on a very human side of coping with grief—one that is not always loud or expressive, but just as real and profound.

“He Never Cared What People Thought”

Speaking further about Azad, Kush shared anecdotes that paint a picture of a man who was confident, caring, and deeply talented.

“He never cared about what people thought of him,” said Kush. “He was an exceptional poet. The way he used to narrate his poetry—his voice, his emotion—was truly unmatched.”

Azad’s talents extended far beyond acting. He was known for his poetic abilities, which he often shared during informal gatherings. His colleagues admired not only his performance on screen but also the wisdom and creativity he brought off-camera.

Kavi Kumar Azad: The Entrepreneur Behind Kusum Rolls

Unknown to many fans, Kavi Kumar Azad also dabbled in entrepreneurship. Kush revealed that Azad had started a food business named Kusum Rolls in Malad, Mumbai.

“It was something he started with a lot of love. Today, his family continues to run it, and it’s doing well,” said Kush.

This revelation adds another layer to Azad’s multifaceted life. From acting and poetry to business, he lived a life full of passion and purpose.

The Impact of Kavi Kumar Azad on TMKOC and Its Cast

Kavi Kumar Azad’s absence is still felt on the sets of TMKOC. While the show has continued its successful run with new faces, his memory remains alive in the hearts of the team.

Kush Shah’s reflections show how deeply Azad influenced those around him. Not just through his role as Dr. Hathi, but through his warmth, humor, and genuine kindness.

“He was like family,” Kush added. “He was more than a co-star. He taught me things I didn’t even realize I needed to learn.”

Fan Reactions and Continued Legacy

Even after seven years, fans of Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah continue to comment on Azad’s scenes, share old clips, and pay tribute to him on social media. Whenever episodes featuring Azad are re-telecast, a surge of nostalgia flows through the fanbase.

Posts titled “#MissYouDrHathi” and “#KaviKumarAzadLivesOn” trend occasionally, especially around the anniversary of his death. It’s a testament to the mark he left on Indian television and on the hearts of viewers.

Emotional Resilience in the Face of Loss

Kush Shah’s interview also opens up a conversation on how actors deal with grief behind the glitz and glamour. It reveals the emotional resilience required to continue performing and entertaining audiences while coping with personal loss.

For viewers, it’s a reminder that behind every beloved character is a real person with relationships, memories, and emotions.

Looking Ahead: Taarak Mehta’s Enduring Popularity

While many characters and actors have changed in Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah, its central themes of community, humor, and positivity remain unchanged. It’s this foundation that makes it one of the most-watched shows even in 2025.

The passing of actors like Kavi Kumar Azad has undeniably changed the emotional fabric of the show, but the respect and memories held by cast members like Kush Shah help preserve the spirit of those who are no longer around.

Kavi Kumar Azad may be gone, but through memories, anecdotes, and episodes of TMKOC, his legacy continues to inspire. Kush Shah’s recent statements are not just an emotional tribute, but also a reminder of the lasting impact artists have on their peers and audience.

As TMKOC continues to evolve, its enduring heart lies in the memories it has created—and Kavi Kumar Azad is forever a part of that legacy.