When we think of early 2000s Indian television, one show that immediately comes to mind is Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi. And when we talk about that serial, we can’t leave out Smriti Irani — the actress who played Tulsi Virani and became a household name across India.
In this article, we look at Smriti Irani’s journey with the show, the scale of its production, its success, and where she stands today.
Smriti Irani – The Face of Indian Television
Smriti Irani was in her early 20s when she started playing the role of Tulsi. Born on March 23, 1976, she stepped into the entertainment industry after participating in the Miss India contest in 1998. However, it was her role in Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi that gave her nationwide recognition.
The character of Tulsi, a strong, emotional, and grounded daughter-in-law, became an iconic figure in Indian households. Irani played the role for several years before eventually stepping away to pursue other ventures.
Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi – A Serial That Changed TV
The show, produced by Balaji Telefilms and launched in 2000, ran for over 1,800 episodes and became one of the longest-running and highest-rated shows in Indian television history.
The budget of Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi was considered high for that time, with elaborate sets and a large cast. Despite this, it became a massive success, drawing millions of viewers daily. Reviews back then praised the emotional depth, dramatic turns, and characters that felt relatable, especially in joint family settings.
Income and Career After TV
Smriti Irani reportedly earned a good income during her television career, especially at the peak of the show’s popularity. While exact figures are not public, she was among the highest-paid TV actresses of that time.
After her stint in television, Irani took a different path — she entered politics. Today, she serves as a Union Minister in the Indian government. Despite the career shift, her role in Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi continues to be remembered by fans.
A Personal Struggle Behind the Camera
In a recent interview, Smriti shared a personal moment from her time on the show. She spoke about how she had to return to work right after experiencing a miscarriage. Not only did she continue shooting, but she also revealed she had to provide medical proof of her condition to the team.
This event highlighted the challenges many actors silently deal with behind the scenes — the pressure to deliver, even when facing personal grief.
Events and the Buzz Around Season 2
There’s been a lot of buzz about a possible reboot of Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi. While a teaser was released recently, Smriti Irani has confirmed she is not part of Season 2. Many fans are disappointed, but others are curious to see how the story continues with a new cast.
Some of the original actors have spoken publicly about the reboot, saying that while it’s nostalgic, the show may feel very different without Smriti Irani’s Tulsi.
Final Thoughts
Even though Smriti Irani has moved far from the world of daily soaps, her legacy as Tulsi lives on. For many, she will always be remembered as the strong yet relatable daughter-in-law of Indian television. The success of Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi isn’t just about TRP numbers — it’s about a character that connected deeply with viewers.
