Asit Modi Recalls Disha Vakani’s Iconic Dayaben Audition for TMKOC

Taarak Mehta Producer Asit Modi Shares Memories of Disha Vakani’s First Dayaben Audition

Seventeen years after Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah began, fans still miss Dayaben—played by Disha Vakani, who has been off‑screen for years. In a new chat with Screen, series creator Asit Kumar Modi looked back at her original audition and how the character’s trademark traits took shape.

“A Fine Actor From the Start”

Modi recalls explaining Dayaben’s simple, loving nature to Disha.

“She understood it right away, and we all loved her audition,” he said.

Balcony Call Inspired by Modi’s Mother

Dayaben’s famous calls to husband Jethalal from the balcony came from real life.

“My mother used to run after my father when he forgot things on the way to work,” Modi explained. “That innocence went straight into Dayaben.”

How the Iconic Garba Began

• In one early episode, Bapuji’s hip stiffens. Writers tried a scene where Dayaben dances garba around him to “loosen” it.
• Viewers adored the moment, so garba became Dayaben’s signature.
• “Her unique garba steps were Disha’s own improvisation, lifting the script to the next level,” Modi said.

Will Dayaben Return?

Modi confirmed the team is auditioning new actresses but still hopes Disha Vakani herself might come back:

“The character will return soon—whether with Disha or someone new.”

For now, fans can rewatch those balcony shouts and joyful garba steps, remembering how a simple audition turned into one of Indian TV’s most beloved characters.

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