Smriti Irani returns to TV as Tulsi, earning ₹14 lakh per episode

Former Union Minister Smriti Irani is making a high-profile return to television as Tulsi Virani in the re-telecast of the iconic Hindi serial Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, which will air on Star Plus from July 29 at 10:30 PM. The show, which originally aired from 2000 to 2008, played a pivotal role in making Irani a household name.

Also read: Smriti Irani returns as Tulsi in the reboot of ‘Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi’

Back in 2000, Irani earned just ₹1,800 per episode. Now, 25 years later and after a successful political career, she is reportedly being paid ₹14 lakh per episode—an astonishing leap that reflects her enduring popularity and stature.

The show's promo, released yesterday, features Irani in her trademark look—a red bindi and silk saree—watering a Tulsi plant. “We’ve been in a relationship for 25 years. I’ll definitely return to meet you again,” she says, reviving nostalgia among fans.

Irani rose to political prominence after transitioning from television to public life. She served as a Union Cabinet Minister and famously defeated Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in Amethi in 2019. However, she lost the seat in the 2024 general elections, prompting her return to acting.

Interestingly, in 2014, Irani was set to reprise her role in the serial but left for Delhi after being called by the Prime Minister's Office to join the Union Cabinet.

Now, with her return to television, both fans and TRP ratings are expected to follow.