Disha Vakani has left an unforgettable mark on the TV medium with her role as ‘Dayaben’ in Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah. Despite her break from the role more than 5 years ago, she continues to remain one of the most iconic faces of Indian television. Her playful expressions, signature garba moves, and unique comic timing have made a special place in the hearts of fans. As fans eagerly wait for her return after all these years, her on-screen brother, ‘Sundar’, played by her real-life brother Mayur Vakani, has finally put an end to all speculation. Here’s what he has to say.
Will Disha Vakani ever return to Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah?
Mayur Vakani recently sat down for an interview with The Times of India and opened up about his role, plans and her sister, Disha Vakani’s return to the show. Replying to the most-awaited question on his sister, Disha’s return, Mayur explained that his sister is playing an even more important role in her life, that of a mother. According to him, she is playing a fulfilling role with complete commitment, pouring the energy she used in acting into motherhood. The actor highlighted that their father always taught them to treat every role personal and work with their complete sister, and Disha is doing just that. In his words:
“My father always taught me the right way. That even in life, we are actors. Whatever role we are given, we should perform it sincerely. We still follow his teachings. Currently, she is playing the role of a mother in real life, and she is performing that role with full dedication. I truly believe this was always in my sister’s mind, too.”
Mayur fondly looked back at his sister’s earlier acting journey and revealed that from a young age, she showed an immense spark. He revealed that it was their father’s choice that Disha join acting, and when he, along with her, joined Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah, it felt like his dream came true. Mayur mentioned that when their father saw her transform into ‘Daya’s role and become a household name, he was proud of it. At the same time, he now believes that her role as mother is equally valuable. Recalling Disha’s acting gig as a kid, he said:
“I remember my sister’s very first performance; she was just five years old at the time. Namdev Lahutte had come to conduct a Shibir, which was mainly for children aged 15–16. Despite being so young, my sister performed brilliantly. She played the role of a 90-year-old woman who comes to take medicine and leaves only after getting it. In that small act, she showed her real spark.”
Mayur Vakani reveals how negative comments on his portrayal of ‘Sundarlal’ left him heartbroken
Mayur reflected on his early days of playing ‘Sundar’, when not everyone immediately connected to his role on the first go. However, one viewer revealed to him that he thought Mayur did not look like an Ahmedabadi. Initially, the comment disheartened him, but Mayur’s father helped him understand that this was actually a victory, because it meant the character was evoking strong reactions from the fans. However, now, after years, audiences have accepted Sundar with love, and Mayur values the deep bond his role has developed with his fans.
Mayur Vakani a.k.a ‘Sunderlal’ recalls the most heart-touching moment from his life
In the same conversation, Mayur Vakani recalled his journey on the show and how fans received it. He recalled that a woman at a function a few years ago revealed that she had battled cancer and found hope in watching Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah every evening. She told him that she used to look forward to the show, which gave her the strength to fight through her illness, and in many ways, became like her medicine. It was a life-changing moment for Mayur, who realised how the show had the power to heal and bring happiness to people even during the darkest days. It reminded him that their work was not just about comedy, but also about spreading hope.
What do you think about Mayur Vakani’s comments?
Next Read: Rohit Saraf Playfully Confirms Janhvi Kapoor’s Relationship With Shikhar Pahariya, ‘Maar Nahi…’