In a deeply tragic incident, television actor Lalit Manchanda, who had appeared in several well-known shows including Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah, India’s Most Wanted, Crime Patrol, Maryada, Jhansi Ki Rani, and Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai, has passed away by suicide in Meerut. According to reports, the actor was battling severe financial issues at the time of his death.
As per a report by Amar Ujala, Lalit had been living in Mumbai for the past 12 years, managing to earn through small roles in television serials. However, financial instability forced him to relocate back to his hometown of Meerut about six months ago. He was staying at his brother’s home in Prahlad Nagar, Lisadi Gate area, along with his wife Taru and their two children—18-year-old son Ujjwal and daughter Shreya.
On Sunday night, Lalit chose to sleep in a separate room. The next morning, when his family tried to wake him up for tea, they found him unresponsive. Authorities were immediately informed. His body was sent for postmortem, and the final rites were performed on Monday evening. A police investigation is currently underway.
Lalit’s death has brought back painful memories of another shocking loss from 2020, when Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah writer Abhishek Makwana also died by suicide. In that case, a suicide note revealed he had fallen into a debt trap. His brother later confirmed that loan sharks had been harassing the family for repayments even after Abhishek’s passing.
Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah, a show both Lalit and Abhishek were associated with, continues to be one of the most iconic and longest-running sitcoms in Indian television history, having premiered in 2008.
Lalit Manchanda’s untimely demise is a stark reminder of the silent struggles many artists face behind the scenes. It also highlights the growing mental and financial pressure in the entertainment industry—an issue that urgently needs more attention and support.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues or feeling overwhelmed, help is available. You are not alone. Please reach out to a mental health professional or contact a helpline.
India Helplines:
- iCall (TISS) – 9152987821
- AASRA – 91-22-27546669 / 27546667
- Vandrevala Foundation – 1860 266 2345 or 1800 233 3330
Your life matters. Please seek support.
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