Raksha Bandhan brought an unexpected gift for fans of Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah when the show’s producer Asit Modi shared a rare and heartwarming video featuring Disha Vakani, the actress forever remembered as “Dayaben”. The clip showed Disha joining Asit Modi and his wife for the festival and tying a rakhi on his wrist as a gesture of affection and respect. The moment, filled with warmth, instantly sparked fresh excitement among viewers longing for her return to the show.
In his accompanying message, Asit Modi reflected on the depth of their bond, describing it as one forged not by blood but by shared laughter, memories and mutual admiration over the years. For him, Disha has been more than an actor, she has been like a sister.
Here is Asit Kumarr Modi’s post:
Click to watch this video directly on Instagram
Disha Vakani has been absent from the series since stepping away in 2017 for maternity leave and her absence continues to be felt both on screen and behind the scenes. The show’s recent 17th anniversary celebration in Mumbai was a proud milestone but the festivities were tinged with the knowledge that one of its most beloved characters was missing.
Asit Kumarr Modi admitted that replacing her is no easy task. Disha’s portrayal of Dayaben set a standard that, in his words, is almost impossible to replicate. While he remains uncertain about what the future holds, he hopes to find a way to bring the character back to life.
Her long-time co-star Dilip Joshi, who has shared the screen with her from 2008 to 2017, echoed the sentiment. He recalled the ease of their on-screen chemistry, honed through years of working together and shaped by their shared theatre background. For him, scenes with Disha were not just memorable for the audience but personally enjoyable as a performer.
For now, fans hold on to the hope that moments like this Raksha Bandhan reunion may be the first step toward seeing Dayaben light up the screen once again.
