When Nostalgia Meets Primetime: Kyunki Is Back—and So Is Tulsi
Back in 2000, Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi hit Indian TV screens with zero fanfare and an odd late-night slot. Most people barely noticed it at first. But over time, it didn’t just gain viewers—it changed everything. Fast-forward 25 years, and the buzz around the Smriti Irani Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi reboot proves how deeply it’s still loved. For many, this isn’t just another reboot. It’s a return to evenings spent watching Tulsi handle impossible family drama with grace and fire.
Now, Smriti Irani is back, and so is the magic.
Why the Return of Kyunki Feels Like a Homecoming
In a recent interview, Smriti Irani recalled how the show was originally tucked away in a strange, late-night slot. A female producer took a chance on it when no one else believed it would work. At the same time, Star Plus had already reserved its prime 9 PM slot for a bigger show. No one expected Kyunki to matter.
But it did.
Against all odds, it caught on—and didn’t let go. The show went on to shape Indian TV as we know it.
What’s new this time around?
This reboot doesn’t just replay old hits. It retells the story for a new audience. And it does so with the same heart that made the original unforgettable.
What Made Kyunki a Legend in the First Place?
Let’s be honest. Indian households in the early 2000s were glued to their TVs every night, thanks to this show.
Here’s why Kyunki became a phenomenon:
- Relatable characters
Tulsi wasn’t just a daughter-in-law. She was the glue holding the Virani family together—strong, kind, and fiercely moral. - A look inside Indian joint families
It explored generations living under one roof, dealing with everyday tensions and timeless values. - Twists you couldn’t predict
Whether it was Mihir’s shocking “death” or family betrayals, the drama kept us on our toes. - It reflected real life
The show tapped into emotions we all understand—love, loyalty, heartbreak, and sacrifice.
For eight straight years, it owned the screen and made actors like Smriti Irani, Amar Upadhyay, and Hiten Tejwani household names.
What to Expect from the Smriti Irani Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi Reboot
The new version, streaming on JioCinema and airing on StarPlus, isn’t just cashing in on nostalgia. It’s a thoughtful remake with old charm and new energy.
Here’s what makes the reboot worth checking out:
- Old faces, new spark
Smriti Irani returns as Tulsi, joined by Amar Upadhyay. But it’s not just a rerun of the past. You’ll also see fresh talent like Gauri Pradhan, Hiten Tejwani, Rohit Suchanti, and Shagun Sharma. - Updated storytelling
The themes are still emotional and intense, but the pace is sharper. Think less dragging, more impact. - Bigger production
Modern sets, slick editing, and better visuals bring the Virani world to life in a new way. - Smriti’s presence
Having Smriti Irani back gives the reboot weight. You can feel her experience and maturity in every scene.
Why This Reboot Hits Different Today
TV has changed a lot since 2000. Reality shows, thrillers, and OTT platforms dominate now. But this reboot reminds us why we fell in love with family sagas in the first place.
If you’re a long-time fan:
- You’ll get that familiar warm feeling of watching characters you know and love.
- It’s like reconnecting with an old friend—comforting and real.
If you’re new to the show:
- It’s a great entry point into Indian drama done right.
- You’ll see why millions were hooked back then—and why it still works now.
Ektaa Kapoor’s Long Game
Back when Ektaa Kapoor first pushed Kyunki onto Star Plus, she was still proving herself. And she wasn’t given the best slot or the best odds.
But Ektaa believed in the story. So did Smriti. And that belief built one of the most-watched shows in Indian TV history.
Today, Ektaa’s name is synonymous with hit serials, but it all started with a risk—and a story that refused to be ignored.
As she once said, “Kyunki was the show that made Indian TV what it is. Bringing it back means bringing back our roots.”
Where to Watch the Reboot
You can catch the Smriti Irani Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi reboot:
- On-demand on JioCinema
- Weekly episodes on StarPlus
So whether you prefer binge-watching or sticking to a weekly ritual, the choice is yours.
The Legacy Lives On
In a world of fast-changing content, Kyunki stands still—and strong. It doesn’t rely on cheap thrills. It leans into emotion, tradition, and storytelling that feels personal.
Watching Tulsi again—this time older, wiser, but still fearless—feels like coming full circle. And it reminds us that some stories never go out of style.
Final Takeaway
The Smriti Irani Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi reboot is more than just a trip down memory lane. It’s a reminder of what Indian television can do when it gets everything right—relatable characters, rich emotions, and stories that stick with you.
If you grew up with Tulsi, it’s time to see her again. And if you didn’t, now’s your chance to meet a character who changed TV history.
