Her first salary was Rs 125, she struggled to pay PG rent. Dilip Joshi recommended her for Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah. Now she has Rs 40 crore net worth

Following the 2008 television premiere of Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah, Babita Krishnan Iyer became a household name. The character, played by none other than Munmun Dutta, has maintained its popularity among viewers for almost twenty years. Before achieving success, the actress, whose charm and on-screen persona have won million of hearts, faced several uncertainties and financial difficulties. However, do you know struggle behind his journey and how she first bagged the role in TMKOC.

How did Dilip Joshi help Munmun Dutta's success?

Munmun Dutta has been associated with Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah since its launch in 2008. Her portrayal of Babita Krishnan Iyer, who shares a popular on-screen equation with Jethalal, played by Dilip Joshi, has made her one of the popular faces of Indian television.




During a throwback podcast interview with Ranveer Allahbadia, Munmun spoke about her early days on the show and her association with Dilip Joshi. She said that the actor might have suggested her name for the role of Babita, but she could not remember the details of the conversation.

Munmun explained, "At that time, I felt I had finally found a job and now I just needed to work hard. Even before that, I was working, not constantly, but yes, there were struggles, especially when you want to become an actor. When the show started, Dilip sir was also part of it. I think he had recommended my name for the show, though I still don’t know the full story. He told me once, but I’ve forgotten the details. As far as I remember, he suggested my name for this particular character."

Before landing the role that changed her career, Munmun had already explored television and films. She made her television debut in 2004 with Zee TV's sitcom Hum Sab Baraati. She later appeared in Kamal Haasan's Mumbai Xpress (2005) and Pooja Bhatt's Holiday (2006). However, it was her role in TMKOC that brought her widespread recognition.

Munmun Dutta struggled to pay PG rent in Mumbai

Behind the popularity was a difficult period when Munmun was trying to build a career in Mumbai. In a 2025 interview with TOI, the actress spoke about how her mother helped her during a financially challenging phase.

Munmun recalled, "I needed money to pay my PG rent and also pay a photographer for my portfolio. My mom gave me money from her own savings, without telling my dad. That money helped me pay rent, get my photos, and start auditioning. That support meant everything.”

The actress also spoke warmly about her mother's ability to connect with people. She described her as someone who could strike up friendships easily and make others feel comfortable.

From a Rs 125 first salary to a successful television career

Munmun's association with the entertainment industry began when she was a child. She said she got her first paycheck at the age of seven when she earned Rs 125 for singing on Air India Radio. She gave the money to her mother, who put it away safely.

Years later, Munmun moved from modelling in Pune to acting in Mumbai. She got the hang of it with her early appearances on television and films but her breakthrough came with the Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah.

She has been playing Babita for years now but she has also made her mark on digital platforms. Her YouTube channel is all about travel, fashion and lifestyle. She has also used her social media following to raise awareness about animal welfare and the rescue of stray animals.

According to TOI report, Munmun Dutta has a net worth of around Rs 40 crore. Her long association with TMKOC remains the defining chapter of her career.