Smriti Irani recalls Siddhivinayak visit with Ektaa Kapoor, pens warm birthday wish: 'When I was chasing..'

On the occasion of Ektaa Kapoor’s birthday, actor-turned-politician Smriti Irani shared a personal note reflecting on their long-standing friendship and professional journey. The message was shared via Smriti's official social media handles.

In the note, the actress turned politician recalled a moment years ago when the two of them walked from Juhu to Siddhivinayak Temple—not in celebration, but in quiet prayer. She described how Kapoor had made a vow for her success during a time when Smriti was still pursuing her dreams in the television industry.

She writes, ''That night, we walked —from the quiet lanes of Juhu to the sacred steps of Siddhivinayak. Not in celebration, but in surrender. She had made a silent vow when I was chasing a dream —a prayer not for herself,but for me. And when the dream turned real, when the world clapped —she didn’t call to revel in the applause. She reminded me: We owe Bappa our thanks. Gratitude walks before pride in her world.

Smriti Irani, who first rose to fame through her role as Tulsi Virani in Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, produced by Ektaa Kapoor’s Balaji Telefilms, reflected on Kapoor’s character beyond the public image. She highlighted Kapoor’s habit of offering support behind the scenes, stating, “The world knows her as fierce -a woman of will, words, and unwavering resolve.But I have known her silences; the softness that doesn’t seek attention, the care that doesn’t need credit. She is the quiet strength behind many journeys, the keeper of promises no one else hears.''

The note continued with Irani expressing her hope for peace and continued success in Kapoor’s life, writing, “Today, she turns yet another page in her life….A milestone many will raise a toast to. But in the hush of this day, I whisper a prayer —May peace wrap itself around her like a shawl on a weary evening. May success find her, not because she chases it, but because she gives so much of herself away. She deserves both.And so much more.Happy Birthday EK.''

Have a look at the note here:

That night, we walked —from the quiet lanes of Juhu to the sacred steps of Siddhivinayak. Not in celebration, but in surrender. She had made a silent vow when I was chasing a dream —a prayer not for herself,but for me. And when the dream turned real, when the world clapped —she didn’t call to revel in the applause. She reminded me: We owe Bappa our thanks. Gratitude walks before pride in her world

- Smriti Irani

Ektaa Kapoor, the head of Balaji Telefilms, has been a key figure in Indian television for over two decades. She launched numerous careers and was instrumental in shaping Indian daily soaps in the early 2000s. Smriti Irani was one of the breakout stars under her production banner. Smriti, who later entered politics and currently serves as a Union Minister in the Indian government, is all set to return to television. She is reuniting with Kapoor for Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2, a reboot of the original series that aired from 2000 to 2008. The new series is expected to blend nostalgia with updated themes for a contemporary audience.

The note stands as a reflection of Irani’s gratitude and enduring bond with Kapoor, tying together their personal and professional milestones over the years.