Smriti Irani Returns as Tulsi in the Iconic Comeback of Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi
By Tanveer Zaidi (Actor–Author–Educationist)
A beloved chapter of Indian television history is about to be rewritten, as the legendary drama Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi prepares to return with its much-anticipated second season.
Premiering on July 3, 2025, exactly 25 years after its original debut, the series is once again helmed by powerhouse producer Ekta Kapoor.
Leading the cast are the iconic duo Smriti Irani and Amar Upadhyay, reprising their memorable roles as Tulsi and Mihir Virani.
A Classic Reimagined for a New Era
Originally broadcast from July 3, 2000, to November 6, 2008, Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi became a cultural phenomenon, revolutionizing Indian daily soaps and making household names out of its cast.
The second season promises to reignite that same emotional magic, but with a narrative tailored to reflect modern-day sensibilities and storytelling preferences.
Smriti Irani’s Triumphant Return to Television
In what is being hailed as a historic return, Smriti Irani—now a prominent political figure—is stepping back into the role that defined an era. Her portrayal of Tulsi Virani, the strong and compassionate daughter-in-law of the Virani household, was widely celebrated for its emotional depth and relatability.
Given her stature in public life, Irani is reportedly shooting under Z+ security—a testament to her evolving persona and public significance.
A Shorter Series with a Symbolic Purpose
Unlike the original, which spanned over 1,800 episodes, the new season will be a finite series of 150 episodes. Interestingly, this number wasn’t chosen at random.
The original series ended just 150 episodes short of the 2,000-episode milestone. With this reboot, the creative team aims to symbolically complete that journey.
Beloved Faces Return, Joined by New Talent
The revival isn’t just about nostalgia; it’s a reunion. Alongside Smriti Irani and Amar Upadhyay, several beloved cast members from the original show will return, including Hiten Tejwani, Gauri Pradhan, Sandeep Baswana, Shilpa Agnihotri, and Rakshanda Khan.
Their presence is expected to evoke powerful memories for long-time fans, while new characters will help weave in contemporary themes and dynamics.
The Timeless Legacy of Tulsi Virani
Tulsi Virani remains one of Indian television’s most iconic characters. Smriti Irani’s portrayal gave Tulsi a unique emotional resonance—she wasn’t just a character on screen but a symbol of resilience, moral strength, and unwavering devotion.
Her struggles, victories, and even her sorrowful moments—especially her tearful scenes—connected with millions across the country.
Viewers saw Tulsi as the quintessential Indian daughter-in-law, upholding tradition while facing adversity with courage.
Her character became an archetype, influencing countless portrayals of women on television and elevating expectations for storytelling depth and realism.
A Show That Defined an Era
Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi set new benchmarks for TRPs and viewership engagement during its original run. It didn’t just entertain—it reshaped how audiences viewed the family drama genre. Its influence is still seen in the structure and emotional tone of many serials today.
The show’s return is not just a revival—it’s a celebration of Indian television history, bringing together past and present in a story that has always been close to the hearts of its viewers.
