Smriti Irani has made a celebrated return to television, reprising her iconic role as Tulsi Virani in Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2. While the actor-turned-politician acknowledged how the TV industry has evolved with better technology and production values, she highlighted that long working hours remain a persistent issue.
In a candid interview with India Today, Smriti stressed the professional commitment required on set. “You cannot say that the producer’s commitment shall not be honoured. Saying ‘I don’t feel like working today’ is not acceptable professionally,” she explained. According to her, the demanding schedules are not just a personal challenge but affect the livelihood of the entire crew. “If I don’t turn up to work, 120 people don’t get paid that day. My approach to work is rooted in accountability and discipline,” she added.
Smriti also reflected on her own experience, recalling that she continued working through two pregnancies during the original show, emphasizing that personal choices and professional responsibility go hand in hand. She further addressed discussions about actors, such as Deepika Padukone, choosing limited working hours, calling it an “individual issue” while pointing out the differences in men’s and women’s biological realities, especially regarding pregnancy.
Returning to television after nearly two decades, Smriti’s views underline the ongoing pressures of long schedules in Indian TV despite advancements in production standards. Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2 airs on Star Plus and streams on JioCinema.
