After 17 years, Ektaa Kapoor revived the iconic series Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi in July, marking Smriti Irani’s return to the screen as the beloved Tulsi. The reboot immediately evoked nostalgia among audiences and recreated the charm that made the original a landmark in Indian television.
However, the show has faced comparisons with Rupali Ganguly’s Anupamaa, which continues to dominate TRP charts with its portrayal of a homemaker’s journey from self-sacrifice to self-realisation. Speaking in a recent interview, Smriti Irani addressed these comparisons, calling them “unfair” and “foolhardy.” She highlighted that the original Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, which first aired in 2000, consistently topped TRP charts, even achieving ratings as high as 30.
Smriti stated that such legacy cannot simply be measured against newer shows. She added that competition should be grounded in fairness and noted that enduring success over decades, combined with her journey as a three-time MP and cabinet minister, sets a different benchmark. She emphasized that while Anupamaa has been successful, the historical impact and sustained popularity of Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi remain unmatched.
The reboot of Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi brings classic themes of family, love, and sacrifice to contemporary audiences, infused with modern values and social dynamics. Alongside Smriti, the limited series features Amar Upadhyay, Rohit Suchanti, Tanisha Mehta, Shagun Sharma, and Aman Gandhi in pivotal roles, aiming to capture both nostalgia and fresh storytelling.
