Smriti Irani is set to reprise her iconic role as Tulsi Virani in Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2, a reboot of the beloved television show that made her a household name. The show is scheduled to air on Star Plus from July 28, marking Irani's return to acting after a long hiatus. In an interview, Irani, a prominent figure in Indian politics, clarified her dual role, stating, "I am a full-time politician and a part-time actor".
Irani emphasized that her return to acting is a "side project," akin to other politicians who juggle multiple professions such as law, teaching, or journalism. She believes that storytelling has the power to spark change, preserve culture, and build empathy. Irani hopes to honor the legacy of Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi and contribute to a future where India's creative industries are empowered.
Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, which originally aired in 2000, became a cultural phenomenon, and Irani's portrayal of Tulsi Virani resonated deeply with audiences. The show's return is not just a nostalgic trip but also a chance to reconnect with a story that redefined Indian television and shaped Irani's life. She acknowledged the show gave her more than just commercial success, it provided a connection with millions of homes and a place in the emotional fabric of a generation.
Addressing criticisms that the show glamorized patriarchy, Irani stated that she "couldn't care less" because the criticism was not constructive or informed. She defended the show's legacy of tackling significant social issues, noting that it addressed topics such as marital rape, adult literacy, and euthanasia long before they were discussed in mainstream cinema. Irani highlighted that the show was progressive and even touched on issues like pay parity.
Amar Upadhyay, who played Mihir Virani in the original series, is also returning for the reboot, reigniting the on-screen magic that captivated audiences two decades ago. The first scene of the reboot was shot on July 3, 2025, the same date the first season aired in 2000. Ekta Kapoor, the producer of the show, aims to reach 2000 episodes with the new season, planning for 150 episodes.
Smriti Irani's journey has been one of diverse achievements. Before entering politics, she was a model and television personality. She participated in the Miss India pageant in 1998 and gained widespread recognition for her role in Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi. In 2003, she joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and has since held various significant positions, including National President of the BJP Mahila Morcha and Member of Parliament. She has also served as a Union Cabinet Minister, holding portfolios such as Human Resource Development, Textiles, Women and Child Development, and Minority Affairs. While she lost the Amethi constituency in the 2024 elections, her commitment to politics remains steadfast.
Irani acknowledges the challenges of balancing her acting and political careers but emphasizes the importance of hard work. She recognizes that her 25-year run in both media and politics is a unique and blessed journey, especially as a woman. She also credits destiny and luck for playing a role in her success. With Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2, Smriti Irani embraces both her identities as a dedicated politician and a beloved actress, ready to create an impact on both platforms.
