How 'Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi' changed the lives of its cast

Remember when ‘Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi’ launched in July 2000? It not only gave us legendary characters like Tulsi Virani, but it also catapulted fresh actors like Mouni Roy, Hiten Tejwani and Amar Upadhyay to overnight fame. These newcomers quickly became household names, and their journey began amidst a team of 120–150 people. In an interview with AajTak, Smriti Irani shared that "didn’t own a house or a car" when the show started.

A prime-time game changer

Smriti Irani recently told AajTak that ‘Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi’ redefined prime-time television by thriving in an unlikely 10:30 p.m. slot, a time when TV viewership was considered low. Yet the show broke barriers, delivering women-centric storytelling and strong narratives. It ran for eight years, setting records and making every member of the team level up both professionally and economically.

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From sets to success

What’s striking is that those early team members started with no assets, no house, and no car. Today? Many of them own both, thanks to the show's iconic success. Smriti pointed out, "We all laid the financial foundation of our lives through Kyunki." It wasn’t just Smriti Irani and the other actors who benefited from the show, but the writers, technicians, crew, and everyone involved saw real transformation.

Faces we still remember

Actors like Mouni Roy, Hiten Tejwani and Amar Upadhyay became stars overnight. The show’s emotional storytelling and rural–urban mix touched millions, cementing their places in viewers' hearts. Their characters weren’t just scripted they became part of family conversations across India.

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Tulsi’s Comeback: Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2

Fast forward to 2025: Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2 premieres on 29 July on Star Plus, celebrating 25 years since the original launch. Smriti Irani returns as the iconic Tulsi. The reboot promises nostalgia, new narratives, and fresh talent rising—just like last time.

Star Plus set for another revolution?

Will the reboot replicate the magic of the original? Given the legacy and lessons, breaking prime-time norms, empowering women, and providing lifelines to countless families. We can be optimistic. Producers aim to balance nostalgia with modern sensibilities, targeting both old fans and Gen Z audiences

Why this matters today

Talent incubation: It was more than a show; it was a launchpad. Every team member gained, from Hiten Tejwani to the off-screen crew.

Economic impact: It turned zero-assets into homeownership and financial security, whether you were on screen or behind it.

Are you ready for its return?

With its second run on the horizon, expect new characters, modern conflicts, and maybe more unsung stars getting their big break. Whether you're nostalgic or just curious, Kyunki 2 promises emotional drama, empowered storytelling, and a chance to create a whole new generation of fan favorites.