Because Smriti Irani is a former minister, her security is a concern...

By Sharad Rai

There is quite a buzz in Bollywood around popular TV actress 'Tulsi' and former Union Minister Smriti Irani. The security arrangements currently seen at Ekta Kapoor’s production house, Balaji Telefilms, are unlike anything witnessed before. The reason? Tulsi—the beloved daughter-in-law from "Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi"—has returned home after 17 years. Smriti Irani, aka Tulsi, is back in front of the television camera. This time, she will reprise her iconic daughter-in-law avatar in an updated version of the serial titled "Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2.0", reclaiming a screen presence that had faded once she entered politics.

Smriti Irani’s Set Under High Security

Reports suggest that the shooting sets where Smriti Irani will be present are under strict security protocols. No cast members are allowed to carry mobile phones on set. Only Smriti Irani and Amar Upadhyay—who originally played Mihir Virani and is reprising his role—are exempt. Everyone else must deposit their phones, and even those will be tapped. Only Ekta Kapoor and her mother Shobha Kapoor are allowed free access to the sets.

It's worth mentioning that the new version of "Kyunki..." is also being produced by Jeetendra’s daughter and wife—Ekta Kapoor and Shobha Kapoor. Last month, in an interview with an English daily, Ekta confirmed that she would be bringing "Kyunki Saas... 2" soon, and all preparations are now complete. Though not officially announced, it has been revealed that the new season will consist of 150 episodes and will air from July 3, 2025, at 10:30 PM—the same date and time the original series premiered back in 2000.

From 2000 to 2008, Tulsi Virani was the most popular daughter-in-law on Indian television. She was a household name until she moved into politics and became an active member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), holding key portfolios in the central government. As a Union Minister, Smriti Irani remained in the spotlight both for her name and her work. She even defeated Rahul Gandhi in the Amethi constituency—long considered a stronghold of the Nehru-Gandhi family. Just as she had dominated the small screen, she established herself firmly in the political landscape.

However, her limited involvement in the current government is believed to be one of the reasons for her return to television.

Rumors also suggest that Smriti Irani may do a cameo in the ongoing serial "Anupamaa", and several filmmakers are considering casting her in films. For now, due to her Z-category security detail, producers may not have easy access to her, which is why many are trying to reach out to Ekta Kapoor instead. Bollywood is ready to welcome Smriti Irani back with open arms—but her security remains a challenge.

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