Disha Vakani Won’t Return to ‘Taarak Mehta…’: Asit Modi Confirms New Auditions

For a long time, there has been speculation about whether Disha Vakani, popularly known as Dayaben, will return to Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah. In a recent interview, the show’s producer, Asit Modi, addressed this topic. He expressed his desire for Disha to return to the show but admitted that it seems difficult now. He also revealed that auditions are ongoing to cast a new actress for the role of Dayaben, and they are ready to welcome a replacement if finalized.

Disha Vakani Went on Maternity Leave in 2017

Disha Vakani went on maternity leave in September 2017 and has not returned to the show since.

“Bringing Dayaben Back is Very Important”

In an interview with News18, Asit Modi said, “Bringing Dayaben back is very important as I also miss her. Sometimes circumstances cause delays in certain matters. Stories take longer, or major events happen, like elections in 2024, IPL, World Cup matches, or the rainy season. Due to such reasons, there have been delays.”

“I Don’t Think Disha Will Return”

The producer added, “I am still trying, but I feel Disha Vakani won’t return to the show. She has two children now. She is like a sister to me, and I still share a close bond with her family. Even today, she ties rakhi to me. Her father and brother are also like family to me.”

“If Disha Returns, Great; Otherwise, We’ll Bring a New Dayaben”

Asit Modi stated, “It is now difficult for her to return to the show. After marriage, a woman’s life changes. Managing work and home with small children becomes challenging. But I remain hopeful and believe that a miracle might happen, and she may come back. If she does, it will be great. If not, we will have to bring a new Dayaben to the show.”

“Maybe I’ll Become Dayaben Myself”

When previously asked about Dayaben, Asit Modi jokingly said, “I feel like I’ll have to become Dayaben myself. This question has been asked for many years now. We are still waiting for her return. If she decides to leave the show, we will bring in a new Dayaben.”

Disha Vakani Got Married in 2015

Disha Vakani married Mumbai-based CA Mayur Padia on November 24, 2015. She gave birth to her daughter, Stuti, in November 2017.

Disha Vakani’s Conditions for Return

Since October 2017, Disha Vakani has not appeared on the show. She joined Taarak Mehta… in 2008 and took maternity leave in October 2017. She was initially expected to return after six months but hasn’t returned to date. In October 2019, she made a brief appearance where her character interacted with Jethalal over the phone. According to media reports, Disha demanded ₹1.5 lakh per episode and set conditions, such as limiting her shooting hours to three per day to spend more time with her family. However, neither Disha nor the show’s makers commented on these reports.