Bhim Vakani breathed his last yesterday morning, Tuesday, April 7, 2026, in Ahmedabad. He was 84. According to family sources, he had been battling health complications since suffering a stroke over a year ago and recently developed pneumonia, which led to his hospitalization.
A Life Dedicated to the Arts 🎭
While he was proud of his children’s television stardom, Bhim Vakani was a powerhouse in his own right, particularly in Gujarati theatre:
The Playwright: He was a respected playwright and director who owned a theatre group. He is credited with training both Disha and Mayur from childhood, often casting them in his plays to hone their craft.
The Bollywood Presence: His versatility took him to the big screen, where he played memorable supporting roles alongside some of India’s biggest superstars:
Lagaan (2001): Played the humorous role of Qazi Sahib with Aamir Khan.
Swades (2004): Shared the screen with Shah Rukh Khan.
Other Hits: Appeared in Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam, Devdas, and Lajja.
The TMKOC Cameo: In a rare "full family" moment, Bhim Vakani even made a guest appearance on Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah, acting alongside his real-life son and daughter.
Industry Tributes: "A Family-Like Bond" 🤝
Asit Kumarr Modi, the producer of TMKOC, was among the first to confirm the news and shared a touching tribute:
"Bhim Vakani was not just a great painter and actor; he was a mentor to Disha. He played a huge role in her success as Dayaben. We shared a family-like bond—whenever he was in Mumbai, he stayed at my home. It feels like a part of my own family is gone."
The Vakani Family Legacy
Name Role / Connection Bhim Vakani Father; Veteran Actor & Playwright (1942–2026). Disha Vakani Daughter; The iconic 'Daya Ben Gada'. Mayur Vakani Son; The beloved 'Sundarlal'. Legacy Project Training children through his Gujarati theatre group.
Final Rites in Ahmedabad 🕊️
The veteran artist’s final rites were performed yesterday at the Thaltej crematorium in Ahmedabad. The ceremony was attended by family, close friends, and members of the Gujarati theatre fraternity.
SantaBanta Verdict:
Bhim Vakani leaves behind a rich legacy that spans from the gritty rehearsals of Gujarati theatre to the grand sets of Oscar-nominated cinema. While he may not have always been in the spotlight, his influence is visible every time Disha Vakani brings her signature comic timing to the screen—a craft she learned directly from her father.
