Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah (TMKOC), a sitcom that is among the longest-running ones on Indian television, still remains close to people’s hearts. Yet, despite all the love and laughter it generates, there’s one question hanging over the show for years now: Will Disha Vakani ever be back as Dayaben?
Disha Vakani, the iconic face behind Dayaben, took maternity leave in 2017 and hasn’t made a comeback since.
Over the years, there have been rumors, speculations, and even brief indications of her return, but nothing has been officially done. Fans are still missing her hearty laughter, her legendary garba, her impromptu “Hey Maa, Mataji!” and her lovely, humorous conversations with Jethalal, acted by Dilip Joshi.
And now, ex-TMKOC actress Nidhi Bhanushali, who played Sonu (Sonalika Bhide), has given her opinion about the absence of Disha Vakani. In a recent conversation with News18, Nidhi offered a thoughtful, respectful, and heartfelt perspective on the ongoing discussions surrounding Disha Vakani’s return as Dayaben.
“It’s Her Life, Her Journey…”
When asked if she would like to see Disha Vakani back on the show, Nidhi responded with grace: “I honestly don’t think that’s for any of us to decide.” It’s her life, her journey, and the decision about what she wants to do rests solely with her.”
She continued, “As much as the audience and all of us who love her may wish for her comeback, the only thing we should do is respect her decision, support her unconditionally, and wish her the very best. We owe her that for all the years of laughter, love, and magic that she brought to us through being there.”
This response struck a chord with fans. While many continue to hope for Dayaben’s return, Nidhi’s words serve as a reminder that personal choice and well-being must always come first, especially for someone who’s already given so much to her audience.
A Special Bond Off-Screen
Nidhi didn’t just admire Disha as a co-star; she shared a personal bond with her that added warmth to their relationship. “Disha didi is genuinely one of the kindest and most generous souls I’ve ever met,” she shared. “She was always warm, inviting, and radiated positivity.”
Nidhi revealed that Disha was also a close friend of her mother, adding an extra layer of comfort and affection to their connection. “While growing up, I looked up to her immensely not just for her brilliant acting and comic timing but also for the kindness she carried and the wisdom in her outlook.”
I really looked up to her.”
In a previous conversation, Nidhi had jokingly said, “Agar mei unko bolu ki muje apna kidney nikal ke de do, voh de dengi.” (If I tell her to give me her kidney, she will give it.) This sweet but humorous remark describes so much of the kindness and generosity of Disha Vakanti’s mean behavior toward Nidhi.
The Irreplaceable Dayaben
Dayaben was not just anyone; she was a phenomenon. She infused the show TMKOC with a new energy and charm that became part of its appeal. From her exaggerated reactions to impromptu garba dancing to side-splitting misreadings of day-to-day situations, she left her imprint.
Even as the show enjoys popularity, her absence is felt deeply. Efforts at substituting her or introducing new characters haven’t been quite enough. What audiences want is not just Dayaben; they want Disha Vakani’s Dayaben. That is a testament to how uniquely she owned the role.
Nidhi’s Journey in TMKOC
Nidhi joined the cast in 2012, taking over the role of Sonu from Jheel Mehta. She was just 11 years old at the time and remembers her first day on set fondly. “I was happily nervous—the good kind of nervous that comes with excitement,” she shared. “When I joined the show, it had already been running successfully for about four years, so it felt like stepping into a world that was already well-established.”
She continued in the role until 2019, after which she moved on to pursue other interests. Palak Sindhwani subsequently took over as the new Sonu.
Today, Nidhi is immersed in her latest project, Yaar Log, a show that means a lot to her on a personal level. Although she has moved into new domains, her experience in TMKOC remains a cherished page in her life.
A Thoughtful Reminder
In a world where fan expectations often weigh heavily on public figures, Nidhi’s words come as a timely and important reminder. Artists are human beings too with families, emotions, and the right to privacy and choice.
Whether or not Disha Vakani returns as Dayaben, her legacy in TMKOC remains untouchable. As Nidhi said, the audience should only respond with love, gratitude, and support.
At the end of the day, as Nidhi so beautifully put it, “It’s her life, her journey… and we must respect that.”