By News18
Years after her graceful exit from the television world, a recently resurfaced and previously unseen photograph of Disha Vakani—cherished by millions for her iconic portrayal of Dayaben in Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah—has stirred a wave of nostalgia and excitement across the internet. The rare image, which rapidly went viral, offers fans a touching reminder of the actress who once lit up living rooms across the country with her vibrant personality and infectious comic timing. Her noticeable transformation in the photo has left social media buzzing, with admirers sharing emotional messages, hoping for her long-awaited return to the screen after nearly eight years of absence.
In the photo, Disha is seen embracing her roots, dressed in a colourful bandhani saree draped in traditional Gujarati style—a style made instantly recognisable by her beloved character. With sparkling bangles adorning her wrists and her ever-warm smile beaming across her face, she stands gracefully while holding a young girl.
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Disha Vakani’s journey in the entertainment industry began long before her television fame. A trained actress with deep roots in Gujarati theatre, she also made notable appearances in Hindi films before finding her true calling in television. Her career reached new heights in 2008 when she was cast as Dayaben in Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah, a role that would forever change her life. Her signature high-pitched laughter, distinctive voice, lovable quirks and catchphrases quickly became the heart of the show, making her a household name across generations.
Off-screen, Disha’s life took a new turn when she married chartered accountant Mayur Pandya on November 24, 2015. Two years later, she stepped away from the show to embrace motherhood after giving birth to their first child, a daughter, in 2017. Since then, she has remained out of the limelight, devoting her time to family and personal life. In May 2022, the couple welcomed their second child, a baby boy.
While fans continue to hope for her comeback to the show that made her a cultural phenomenon, Disha Vakani’s rare appearance in this newfound photograph has reignited their love and admiration for her. For many, she remains irreplaceable—not just as Dayaben, but as an artist who brought laughter, joy and warmth into their homes. Until the day she decides to make a return, moments like these offer a cherished glimpse into the life of one of Indian television’s most beloved stars.