Hiten Tejwani Says Smriti Irani Is ‘Still the Same Humble Co-Star’ in Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2

After years of eager anticipation, Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2 has finally returned to Indian television screens. On July 29, 2025, the beloved family drama aired its first episode — rekindling emotions, memories, and nostalgia among long-time viewers. And at the heart of this emotional reunion is actor Hiten Tejwani, reprising his role as Karan Virani, alongside the iconic Tulsi Virani played by Smriti Irani.

In a heartfelt interview with India Today, Hiten Tejwani opened up about the show’s return, the deep-rooted bond between the original cast members, and how Smriti Irani — despite her meteoric rise in Indian politics — remains “the same warm, grounded, and humble co-star” he remembered from two decades ago.

🔹 Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2: A Legacy Rekindled

The second season of Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi isn’t just a television reboot — it’s the resurrection of a cultural phenomenon that defined Indian daily soaps. From its original run between 2000 and 2008, the show was a staple in millions of households, shaping conversations, family values, and even fashion trends.

Now, with Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2, producer Ektaa Kapoor has brought the Virani family back — but with a fresh twist. While the storytelling will evolve to reflect contemporary issues, the emotional core and family-driven drama that made the original so beloved will remain intact.

🔹 Smriti Irani: Tulsi, Then and Now

Smriti Irani’s return as Tulsi Virani has been one of the biggest highlights of the reboot. From reigning as the queen of Indian television in the early 2000s to becoming a Union Cabinet Minister and Member of Parliament, her career has been nothing short of remarkable.

Yet, according to Hiten, the years — and accolades — haven’t changed her one bit.

“She’s still the same on set,” Hiten said with a smile. “Despite everything she’s achieved — whether it’s Parliament, ministries, or national responsibilities — Smriti brings that same warmth, dedication, and energy. She’s grounded and totally focused on the work.”

Smriti’s humility and professionalism, he said, make her a joy to work with again. She effortlessly steps back into Tulsi’s shoes, delivering her scenes with the same passion that won hearts across the country.

🔹 Unchanged Dedication Despite New Roles

Smriti Irani’s journey from Tulsi Virani to a national political leader is an inspiration. Over the years, she held important portfolios in Women and Child Development, Textiles, and Education. Yet on the set of Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2, she’s just another actor committed to her craft.

“She’s as involved as ever,” Hiten revealed. “Whether it’s rehearsing lines or discussing a scene, she hasn’t let her status affect the work. That’s rare, and it shows how rooted she is.”

The positive atmosphere on set — or as Hiten calls it, “pure good vibes” — is a testament to how much the original cast missed working together. “It’s not just a shoot — it’s a reunion. A celebration.”

🔹 Nostalgia Runs Deep: “It Feels Like Home”

Reuniting with co-stars like Gauri Pradhan (Nandini) and Amar Upadhyay (Mihir) has brought a sense of emotional continuity to the new season.

“It feels like coming home,” Hiten said. “The way we fell into our old rhythms, the camaraderie, the inside jokes — it’s like no time has passed. For the first few days, I kept thinking, ‘Is this really happening?’ It was surreal.”

He added that Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2 maintains the emotional DNA of the original series — but is also bolder, more socially conscious, and crafted for a new generation.

🔹 New Faces, Same Values

While the reboot will feature a mix of old and new cast members, the heart of the show remains unchanged.

“Yes, there are new Viranis,” Hiten confirmed. “A younger generation is being introduced, and they come with their own stories and conflicts. But the values, the essence — that’s all the same.”

The show will address current topics like generational clashes, modern parenting, women’s independence, and digital disconnect in families — all while holding on to the foundational themes of love, sacrifice, and loyalty.

🔹 Ektaa Kapoor’s Vision: Modern Yet Rooted

Ektaa Kapoor, the creative force behind the original Kyunki, returns as producer once again. In a recent statement, she emphasized that Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2 is not about reliving the past but reimagining it.

“We are not trying to compete with nostalgia. We’re trying to expand on it — grow from it. We want viewers to feel connected, whether they’re longtime fans or discovering Kyunki for the first time,” she said.

📺 Where to Watch

Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2 airs Monday to Saturday at 10:30 PM on Star Plus and is also available for streaming on JioCinema and Disney+ Hotstar.

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