Smriti Irani's Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi: Limited to Just 20 Episodes?

Mumbai, India - The eagerly anticipated return of "Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi" (KSBKBT) has sent waves of excitement and nostalgia across Indian households. With Smriti Irani reprising her iconic role as Tulsi Virani, fans are buzzing about what the new season holds. However, a significant question has emerged amidst the excitement: Will this comeback be a brief affair, potentially limited to just 20 episodes?

Recent reports suggest that the new season of "Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi," marking its 25th anniversary, might indeed be a limited series. While initial speculation hinted at a run of around 150 episodes, sources now indicate a much shorter format, possibly between 10 to 20 episodes. This news, while not officially confirmed by the producers, aligns with statements from producer Ekta Kapoor, who has emphasized a "limited episode" approach with a renewed purpose beyond mere nostalgia.

A Purpose-Driven Comeback, Not Just Nostalgia

Ekta Kapoor has been vocal about her initial hesitation to revive the show, citing the challenge of competing with the strong nostalgia associated with the original. However, she ultimately decided to bring it back with a clear objective: to tell impactful stories that resonate with contemporary audiences and address relevant social issues.

In a recent statement, Kapoor revealed that the new iteration will focus on topics such as parenting, sensitive social issues, and the delicate balance between concern and control within families. She highlighted that the original "Kyunki" wasn't just a daily soap but a catalyst for discussions on issues like domestic abuse and women's empowerment. The limited-episode format is intended to allow for focused storytelling that aims to "impact, entertain, probe thoughts, and most importantly, to inspire."

Smriti Irani's Return to the Small Screen

The return of Smriti Irani as Tulsi Virani is undoubtedly one of the biggest draws. The first look, showing her in a traditional maroon saree, instantly brought back memories for millions. Irani herself expressed that her return is "not just a step back into a role, but a return to a story that redefined Indian television and reshaped my own life."

Amar Upadhyay, who played the beloved Mihir Virani, has also begun shooting, adding to the excitement of seeing the iconic on-screen couple reunite after 25 years.

What to Expect from "Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2"

The new season is scheduled to premiere on July 29th at 10:30 PM on Star Plus, its original time slot. It will also be available for streaming on JioHotstar. While the episode count remains a topic of discussion, the focus appears to be on a concise yet powerful narrative. Fans can anticipate a show that blends the beloved elements of the original with a modern sensibility, aiming to provide a proper closure to the audience after its abrupt ending in 2008.

Whether "Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi" runs for 20 episodes or slightly more, its return signifies a significant moment for Indian television, bringing back a cultural phenomenon with a renewed mission to engage and inspire.