Smriti Irani shares official statement on 'Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi' 2: 'Redefined TV, Reshaped my life'

Smriti Irani is officially returning to the show that made her one of Indian television’s most recognised faces. The former lead of Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, who played the iconic role of Tulsi Virani, has confirmed that she’s part of the show’s upcoming next chapter.

Sharing a statement on her social media, Irani reflected on what the show meant to her back then—and what it means now, over two decades later.

Sharing an official statement with the media about her return to television, the actress said, “Some journeys come full circle—not for nostalgia, but for purpose. Returning to Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi is not just a step back into a role, but a return to a story that redefined Indian television and reshaped my own life. It gave me more than commercial success—it gave me a connection with millions of homes, a place in the emotional fabric of a generation. In the 25 years since, I’ve straddled two powerful platforms—media and public policy—each with its own impact, each demanding a different kind of commitment.''

''Today, I stand at a crossroads where experience meets emotion, and creativity meets conviction. I return not just as an actor, but as someone who believes in the power of storytelling to spark change, preserve culture, and build empathy. In contributing to this next chapter, I hope to honour the legacy of Kyunki—and help shape a future where India’s creative industries aren’t just celebrated, but truly empowered,'' Smriti further added.

I return not just as an actor, but as someone who believes in the power of storytelling to spark change, preserve culture, and build empathy. In contributing to this next chapter, I hope to honour the legacy of Kyunki—and help shape a future where India’s creative industries aren’t just celebrated, but truly empowered

- Smriti Irani

While there’s no official word yet on whether this will be a sequel, a reboot, or a fresh storyline under the same title, Irani’s statement confirms that something is in the works. The original show, produced by Ekta Kapoor’s Balaji Telefilms, ran from 2000 to 2008 and became one of the longest-running and most influential daily soaps in Indian TV history. It made Tulsi Virani a household name and launched Irani into the spotlight—eventually leading her into a career in politics.

With Irani back on board, expectations are already high. Fans now wait to see whether other original cast members will return—and how the new version will connect with today’s audience.