From body double rumours to powerful monologues: Times Smriti Irani made headlines for Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2

Smriti Irani, best known for her iconic role in Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, has always been in the spotlight. Over the years, the actress-turned-politician has often made headlines, sometimes for her work and at other times for controversies. No matter what she does, her moves rarely go unnoticed and quickly become a topic of discussion. From rumours about using body doubles on sets to her much-talked-about feud with Ram Kapoor, Smriti has seen her fair share of attention. Whether good or bad, these moments have kept her name buzzing in the entertainment world. (Photo: Instagram)

Smriti Irani landed in controversy soon after Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi returned on TV. The show got mixed reviews, but many fans expressed disappointment over Smriti’s performance as Tulsi Virani. On social media, some viewers claimed she was using a body double in several scenes. They pointed out that Tulsi’s reactions looked odd, disconnected, and not natural. Reports suggested Smriti was shooting separately from the rest of the cast, and for family scenes, a body double was used. One viewer even tweeted that it felt like the actors were “talking to a wall,” as her shots looked out of place. This quickly became a hot topic of discussion online. (Photo: Instagram)

Smriti Irani openly confirmed that she is television’s highest-paid actor after returning to the Kyunki reboot. Reports stated she earns about ₹14 lakh per episode, making her one of the most expensive stars on Indian TV. In an interview with CNN-News18, she was asked about her rise from a struggling actress in 2000 to the top earner in 2025. Smriti admitted it with a smile, saying, “Yes, I see the glee on your face.” She explained that her pay reflects her consistent work, her ability to bring in revenue, and her smart negotiations. According to her, the money she earns is not luck but the outcome of years of effort and dedication. (Photo: Instagram)

In July 2025, actor Ram Kapoor made remarks about Smriti Irani during an interview that created a storm. He spoke about her physical appearance during Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi and linked it to her success. Ram commented that Smriti had been “huge” and “as big as I am,” yet still managed to be more successful than him. Many people felt the remarks were insensitive and insulting to Smriti’s career. He also said her character’s shift into a grandmother role suited her physical changes. The comments were widely criticised, with viewers calling them disrespectful and unnecessary. This led to a backlash against Ram, putting Smriti once again in the headlines. (Photo: Instagram)

Smriti Irani and Amar Upadhyay’s pairing as Tulsi and Mihir in Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi is one of the most loved in Indian television history. Their chemistry made them household names and remains unforgettable for fans even today. Recently, the two actors reunited for the reboot Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2. The reunion brought back memories for viewers who grew up watching their story. Amar shared that working with Smriti again felt natural and effortless, almost like reuniting with family. He said their bond and comfort level were the same as it was 25 years ago, which helped them recreate the old magic on screen. (Photo: Instagram)

Smriti Irani has always balanced her dual career as an actor and politician. In an interview with NDTV, she clearly stated that she sees herself as a full-time politician and only a part-time actor. She even called Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi a “side project.” Smriti explained that television shows are never about one person but about the entire team of actors and writers. She admitted that she might be the most recognisable face, but she doesn’t consider herself the sole focus of the show. Smriti compared herself to other politicians who also manage part-time careers, like lawyers or teachers. She said the only difference is that her work gets more attention because she is always in the spotlight. (Photo: Instagram)

One of Smriti Irani’s scenes in Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi recently went viral for its emotional depth. In the scene, Tulsi delivers a monologue about the struggles of housewives and the lack of recognition they receive. After Mihir questions her for using his money without asking, Tulsi counters him. She reminds him that while she has managed the household for decades, she has never been given a salary or even a single day off. Her words reflected the reality of many homemakers who sacrifice their entire lives without acknowledgment. The monologue touched viewers, and earned praise for showing the harsh truth of countless women’s lives. (Photo: Instagram)

Smriti Irani has often spoken about how Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi changed Indian television. In an interview with Aaj Tak, she shared that the show not only became a cultural phenomenon but also changed the lives of those who worked on it. She recalled that when the show started, many of the 120–150 people involved didn’t even own a house or a car. Over time, the success of the show helped build financial stability for the entire team. Smriti said the show laid the foundation for many people’s careers and livelihoods. (Photo: Instagram)