Television fans are in for a nostalgic treat as Smriti Irani is all set to return to the small screen with the reboot of the legendary daily soap Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi. After a 15-year hiatus from acting, the former TV icon is stepping back into the iconic role of Tulsi Virani—a character that once became a household name across India.
On Monday, the much-anticipated first look of Smriti in her Tulsi avatar was leaked online, sparking waves of excitement among fans.
Smriti Irani Returns as Tulsi Virani
In the leaked first look, Smriti Irani is seen donning a maroon saree accentuated by a rich zari border. Staying true to her character’s original look, she completes the ensemble with a prominent red bindi, traditional temple jewelry, and a black-beaded mangalsutra. The reboot marks her official return to television acting after 15 years.
A Legacy Show That Defined Indian Television
Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi stands as one of the most iconic and influential Indian soap operas. Created by Ekta Kapoor and produced under Balaji Telefilms, the show originally aired on Star Plus from July 3, 2000, to November 6, 2008, and ran for over 1,800 episodes.
The storyline centered around Tulsi, an ideal daughter-in-law from a humble Brahmin family who marries into the wealthy and powerful Virani family. The show, with its powerful storytelling and emotional connect, dominated television ratings for years and played a pivotal role in establishing both Ekta Kapoor’s and Smriti Irani’s careers.
The Comeback We’ve Been Waiting For
While the reboot was initially slated to premiere on July 3 to mark its 25th anniversary, a minor delay in production has postponed the release. However, anticipation remains sky-high as fans gear up to welcome back Tulsi and Mihir, with Amar Upadhyay also reprising his role in the show.
Smriti Irani’s Emotional Tribute to the Show
Just a few days ago, Smriti Irani marked the 25-year milestone of the show with a heartfelt Instagram post. Sharing a photo, she wrote:
“25 years ago, a story entered Indian homes and quietly became part of countless lives. Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi wasn’t just a show—it was emotion, memory, ritual. A time when families paused everything to sit together… cry, laugh, hope. To every viewer who made Tulsi a part of their own family—thank you. This journey wasn’t mine alone. It was ours. And it always will be.”
The upcoming reboot promises not only a wave of nostalgia but also the return of one of Indian television’s most cherished characters. As Smriti Irani once again steps into Tulsi’s shoes, fans across generations eagerly await the revival of a saga that once brought the nation together every evening.
