Smriti Irani's Salary Soars to ₹14 Lakh per Episode in Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 3

In a remarkable resurgence of one of Indian television's most iconic shows, "Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi," Smriti Irani, who reprises her role as Tulsi Virani, is reportedly set to earn ₹14 lakh per episode, a significant increase from her original salary of ₹1,800 per episode during the show’s initial run starting in 2000. The reboot is slated to premiere on July 29, 2025, at 10:30 PM, featuring original lead pair Irani and Amar Upadhyay as Mihir Virani.

The return of "Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi" has stirred excitement among fans, evoking nostalgia for a series that defined Indian soap operas in the early 2000s. The show, which originally aired for eight years, became a cultural phenomenon, exploring themes of family dynamics and societal expectations. Its revival is anticipated not only for its nostalgic value but also for the substantial pay hike witnessed by its lead actress.

Smriti Irani, who transitioned from a television actress to a prominent political figure, shared insights regarding her initial salary during a recent interview. "When I started, I was earning around ₹1,800 per month, which was the equivalent of my salary at McDonald's at the time," Irani recounted, reflecting on her journey in the entertainment industry. The actress emphasized the pivotal role of an astrologer in her casting, stating, "The astrologer told Ekta Kapoor that I would become a significant name in the country, which led to my initial offer being revised."

In contrast to her initial earnings, Irani's current fee of ₹14 lakh per episode reflects the evolving landscape of the Indian television industry, where lead actors are commanding significantly higher salaries. This trend has been corroborated by industry sources, indicating a shift in market dynamics, where popular shows are now able to generate substantial revenue through advertising and sponsorships, thereby allowing for larger budgets for talent.

According to Dr. Anjali Sharma, a media studies expert at the University of Delhi, "The increase in salaries for television actors like Smriti Irani is a reflection of the growing commercialization of Indian television. The success of shows in attracting advertisers has led to a bidding war for top talent, which in turn raises production costs."

Moreover, the reboot coincides with a broader trend in the Indian entertainment industry, where nostalgia-driven content is gaining traction. The revival of classic series taps into a demographic that grew up watching these shows, thereby creating a loyal audience base eager to relive the past.

Furthermore, industry insiders suggest that such salary increments not only benefit the actors but also set a new benchmark for aspiring talent in the industry. "With Smriti Irani's salary hike, we may see a ripple effect, where new entrants will expect competitive salaries based on the success of previous shows," noted Rajesh Mehta, a television producer with over 20 years of experience.

This significant pay rise has also sparked discussions about gender equity in the television industry. While male actors have traditionally received higher paychecks, Irani's case may indicate a shift in how female leads are valued. "The increase in Smriti's salary signifies a recognition of the pivotal role women play in driving viewership and shaping narratives in Indian television," commented Dr. Priya Kapoor, a gender studies researcher at the Tata Institute of Social Sciences.

As "Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 3" prepares for its debut, the industry watches keenly, not just for its nostalgic appeal, but also for the potential implications this pay structure may have on the future landscape of television in India. With rising expectations for quality content and the financial implications of celebrity talent, the show might set new standards for both production values and actor compensation.

In conclusion, the revival of "Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi" serves as a critical juncture in Indian television, highlighting the interplay between nostalgia, commercial viability, and evolving industry standards. As fans count down to the premiere, the show's success could pave the way for further reboots and a reimagined television landscape in India, where both actors and narratives gain the recognition they deserve.