The popular character Dayaben from Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah has been a household name in India, bringing smiles and laughter to millions. Even though actress Disha Vakani left the show over seven years ago, her iconic character remains unforgettable. Fans remember her distinctive dialogues, her joyful Garba, and her unique chemistry with Jethalal. Recently, fans were shocked to hear that Disha had turned down a massive ₹65 crore offer to join Bigg Boss 18.
But why would Disha Vakani reject such a significant amount? Let’s explore the main reasons behind her decision to say no to the famous reality show.
A Long-Time Offer Finally Declined
For several years, the Bigg Boss producers have wanted a cast member from Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah to join the show. While the show is famous for its high-drama environment, no one from the cast had accepted the offer until now. This year, Gurucharan Singh, known for his role as Roshan Sodhi, agreed to be a part of Bigg Boss 18, making him the first from the show’s cast to participate. Despite the excitement of seeing familiar faces, Disha Vakani, who was offered the highest pay among them, decided to decline.
Keeping Personal Life Private
Disha Vakani has always been very private about her personal life. Since her childhood, she has been close to the entertainment industry, thanks to her father, Bhim Vakani, a well-known theater artist. However, Disha has often kept her family out of the limelight, especially her husband and two young children. She feels that reality shows like Bigg Boss invade privacy, which doesn’t align with her values.
Disha’s decision also reflects her desire to keep her personal life away from public scrutiny. She has previously chosen to stay away from media glare, which allows her to maintain a more balanced family life.
The Family Factor: Why Dayaben Stays Away
A significant reason for Disha’s decision to stay away from the show is her commitment to her young children. Disha is a devoted mother to her seven-year-old daughter and two-year-old son. Being part of a show like Bigg Boss, which requires contestants to stay inside the house for over three months, would mean a long separation from her children.
In the past, Disha left Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah at the peak of its popularity to focus on her family. This time, too, she chose family over fame and money, prioritizing her role as a mother over any professional commitments.
Uncomfortable with the Constant Camera Presence
Disha Vakani is known for her acting skills and versatility on-screen, but being under constant surveillance is not something she is comfortable with. On Bigg Boss, contestants are monitored round the clock. In addition, there is always a risk of being misrepresented or portrayed negatively, which doesn’t sit well with Disha’s style.
No Interest in Reality Show Drama
While reality shows can be a thrilling experience for many, Disha seems to prefer a life away from on-screen drama. The high-tension environment and frequent confrontations on Bigg Boss contrast sharply with the kind of content Disha has been associated with. Her role as Dayaben was defined by its innocence, humor, and charm – all qualities that are hard to sustain in the challenging reality show format.
Moreover, Disha Vakani has an impressive film and television career, featuring in films like Devdas and Jodha Akbar, which has given her a chance to express her talent without stepping into the world of reality shows.
The Legacy of Dayaben
Dayaben’s character is beloved for its purity and simplicity. The charm she brought to the role has made it impossible for fans to imagine anyone else in her place. Her iconic Garba performances, innocent expressions, and unique voice have turned Dayaben into a character with a cult following. Asit Modi, the show’s creator, has struggled to find a suitable replacement for Disha Vakani, which reflects how much her portrayal means to the audience.