• Published: Jul 30 2025 10:12 AM
  • Last Updated: Jul 30 2025 10:32 AM

Disha Vakani refused to return as Dayaben in TMKOC despite emotional pleas and big money offers. Here's the full behind-the-scenes truth.


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For years, fans of Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah have been hoping for Dayaben’s grand return. She was the heart of the show—her laughter, her "Hey Maa Mataji," her garba energy lit up every scene. But despite every possible attempt from the makers—including emotional requests and even better offers than Jethalal’s own salary—Disha Vakani didn’t return. So, what really happened behind the scenes?

Makers Offered Her More Money Than Jethalal—But She Still Refused!

Yes, you read that right. To bring back Daya, the production team went all out financially.

  • Disha Vakani was reportedly offered a salary hike bigger than Jethalal’s.

  • The goal? To match her iconic value and bring the spark back to the show.

  • Despite this tempting offer, she politely declined and didn’t commit to a return.

This wasn't about money—it was about something more personal.

She Shot Till Her Final Months of Pregnancy—But Never Returned After

Disha Vakani was deeply committed to her role, even during pregnancy.

  • She continued to shoot until she was almost due—dedication at its peak.

  • The team adjusted schedules, sets, and comfort for her needs.

  • After her maternity break in 2017, she never resumed the role.

That pause became permanent—even though fans never stopped waiting.

Emotional Pleas from Cast & Crew Didn’t Change Her Mind

The team tried everything—from heartfelt messages to in-person meetings.

  • Jennifer Mistry (Roshan Sodhi) revealed how emotionally invested they all were.

  • The cast wanted Daya back as much as the audience did.

  • Still, Disha stayed firm on her decision—not to return full-time.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

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It became clear: her priorities had shifted, and acting took a back seat.

Special Appearances Happened—But Full-Time Comeback? Never.

Disha did make a few surprise appearances post-2017.

  • She shot for special segments and guest scenes.

  • But these were always short, limited to a few minutes on-screen.

  • Viewers thought it was a sign of her return—but it never happened.

Each glimpse only added to the mystery around her final decision.

The Door Is Still Open—But Will Dayaben Ever Truly Return?

Producer Asit Modi has kept hopes alive for nearly a decade.

  • He’s said multiple times that the role of Dayaben is irreplaceable.

  • They’ve auditioned many, but no one could match Disha’s energy and charm.

  • The door is still open—but it’s up to Disha if she ever wants to walk through it

FAQ

Disha Vakani took a maternity break in 2017 and never returned full-time due to personal commitments and a shift in priorities post-childbirth.

Yes, reports suggest she was offered a salary higher than Jethalal’s (Dilip Joshi), but even that wasn’t enough to convince her to make a full-time comeback.

There has been no official statement confirming her permanent exit, but her prolonged absence and refusal to return full-time suggest she has moved on from the role.

Although many auditions have taken place, no one has matched Disha’s energy. The makers are still waiting for the right time—or her possible return.

As of now, there’s no confirmation, but the producer has kept the door open for her return if the timing and story feel right.

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