'Kyunki Saas...': Smriti Irani recalls how she bagged iconic show
What's the story
Actor-politician Smriti Irani recently opened up about how she bagged the iconic role of Tulsi Virani in Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi. During her session, Kyunki Smriti Lekhak Bhi Hai at Sahitya Aajtak 2025 in New Delhi, she revealed that she had initially auditioned for another role on the show. However, Ektaa Kapoor saw her and decided to cast her as Tulsi instead.
Role change
Irani's initial struggles and unexpected casting
Irani shared that she was initially set to play an actor's sister on the show. "Before I got Kyunki, I had actually gone to play another actor's sister." 'I had borrowed money from my father, and the deal was that if I couldn't return it, I would have to marry wherever he decided." "While I was at the office with my contract, Ektaa Kapoor saw me at the reception and said 'Oh you're Tulsi,' and then tore up my contract."
Audition process
Irani's audition and character sketch for 'Kyunki...'
Irani was called back for another audition. However, she failed to impress the casting team. "When I went to the office, the guard didn't even let me in." "I told him I was an actor and he said, 'You don't look like one.' Somehow I managed to get in, but when they made me audition again, I failed," she recalled.
Character agreement
Irani's agreement to play Tulsi
Despite the failed audition, Kapoor was adamant about casting Irani as Tulsi. "Ektaa told me that this role is not a glamorous one. She explained that when Tulsi cries, her whole face will distort." "She'll endure everything in her relationships with sincerity. That's the kind of woman she is." Listening to the character sketch, Irani agreed.
Show success
'Kyunki...' reboot continues to dominate ratings
The reboot of Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, which premiered on Star Plus in July, has been a massive hit. In its first week alone, the show garnered a TRP of 2.3 with its premiere episode peaking at 2.5. This success proves the enduring legacy of the original show and Irani's iconic portrayal of Tulsi.