Tanvi Trivedi (BOMBAY TIMES; February 2, 2019)

TV actress Disha Vakani, who has become synonymous with her character, Dayaben, from the TV show Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah, had gone on maternity leave in September 2017. The actress, who delivered a baby girl in November that year, extended her leave and didn’t return to work in 2018. Now, with the first month of 2019 already over, there are talks that Disha could be replaced on the show, as she has still not decided if she wants to return to work.

A few months back, there were talks that Disha and producer Asit Kumarr Modi had fallen out due to irrevocable differences. According to a source, after Disha got married, her husband Mayur Padia started interfering with the production house, which also worsened the situation.

Producer Asit Modi, however, denied having any fallout with the actress. He said, “Disha has not been working with us for over a year now. It’s natural for any mother to want to spend time with her child, but now that her daughter is a year old, we are hoping that Disha will return to the show. While my viewers are questioning the long absence of Dayaben, the ratings have not been affected. We have given her enough time to decide, too. Contrary to reports, there are no money issues, because my team is in touch with her and any matter can be solved, amicably. I am still waiting for her to return, but if she does not convey her decision in some time, I will have to replace her. I believe that no actor is bigger than the show and everyone has to work professionally towards making it a success.”

Despite repeated attempts, Disha remained unavailable for comment.