One question always remains for fans of Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah—when is Daya Ben coming back? The character, which was brought to life by actress Disha Vakani with her amazing charm and comic timing, has been missing from the sitcom for the past eight years. But her absence has not diminished her popularity. Rather, it has made her presence even more memorable.
A legacy that will never fade
In a recent interview, producer Asit Modi finally broke the silence that fans have been eagerly waiting for. He said, “Viewers who have been constantly asking about Daya Bhabhi’s return are absolutely right. Disha ji has truly left an indelible mark.” He acknowledged the growing love for the unique and affectionate character. “Even though it has been eight years since we last saw her, her character still lives on in the hearts of the audience.”
However, he also hinted at the complexity of his return. It’s not just about bringing back a character—it’s about finding the right time, the right story and the right moment. “Disha ji’s character left a deep impact on the character. Bringing her back is not easy. It needs the right time and the right circumstances,” he added.
When absence speaks louder than words
Despite his long absence, the show continues to hold its own on the audience. While the recent ghost-themed storyline kept viewers hooked, another fan-favourite—Dilip Joshi’s Jethalal—disappeared from the screen for a while. This absence led to speculations about his exit from the show going viral, but Asit Modi was quick to dismiss these rumours and confirmed that the actor is on a break for personal reasons.
Interestingly, a behind-the-scenes photo of Joshi with Swati Sharma, who plays the ghost Chakori, reassured fans that all is well in Gokuldham Society. The image became a symbol of continuity and relief, especially in a show where the characters often seem like family members.
The show is bigger than its characters
Talking about how the show has maintained its immense popularity despite the absence of many people, Modi emphasised the importance of good storytelling. “When the story is strong, the audience naturally gets immersed in the plot. The absence of a character doesn’t feel that special. The show has always been driven by its story,” he said.
In fact, Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah is more than just its cast—it is a cultural phenomenon that represents unity in diversity, humour in everyday life and joy in community living. With over 4,000 episodes on air, it is the longest-running Indian sitcom, loved by generations across the country.
So, is Daya Ben coming back? That remains to be seen. But Asit Modi speaking openly on this issue and admitting that fans are right to ask this question is a ray of hope. It means that the door is not closed. It is just waiting for the right knock.