Smriti Irani's Salary Surge: From Rs 1800 to ₹14 Lakh Daily in 2025

In an astonishing career trajectory, actress-turned-politician Smriti Irani, known for her iconic role as Tulsi Virani in Ekta Kapoor's television series "Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi," has reportedly seen her daily earnings skyrocket from a mere Rs 1800 to an astonishing ₹14 lakh in 2025. This significant pay hike not only underscores Irani's enduring popularity but also reflects broader trends in the Indian television industry.

Originally airing from 2000 to 2008, "Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi" became a cultural phenomenon, amassing over 1,800 episodes and solidifying Irani's status as a household name. The show celebrated its 25th anniversary on June 3, 2025, and is set to return with a reboot on July 29, 2025, on StarPlus, with an additional 150 episodes planned. Ekta Kapoor, the show's producer, emphasized the significance of the series, stating, "The love we have for this program brought everyone related to it back together."

Irani's initial earnings were modest compared to her current salary. In a revealing interview with Curly Tales, she recounted her financial struggles prior to her role in the series, noting that she once earned approximately Rs 1800 per month working at McDonald's. "At that time, getting Rs 1200 per day was a game changer," she said, reflecting on how her life transformed after being cast as the lead in the show.

As she prepares to reprise her role, rumors abound regarding her staggering new salary, which has yet to be officially confirmed. According to multiple entertainment portals, including India Forums, Irani's reported earnings of ₹14 lakh per day would make her the highest-paid actress in Indian television history. She will also reportedly receive Z+ level security during production, underscoring her status in the industry.

The television landscape has evolved significantly since Irani's initial foray, with other actors like Jannat Zubair earning Rs 18 lakh per episode and Rupali Ganguly earning Rs 3 lakh per episode for her role in "Anupamaa." This growth reflects both the increasing monetization of television content and the changing dynamics of celebrity culture in India.

Irani's career is noteworthy not only for her acting but also for her political achievements. Since joining the Bharatiya Janata Party in 2003, she has held various significant positions, including serving as a Member of Parliament for Amethi, where she notably defeated Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in the 2019 elections. Her dual career as an actress and a politician exemplifies the intersection of entertainment and political influence in contemporary India.

As the reboot of "Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi" approaches, industry analysts are keenly observing its potential impact on television viewership and advertising revenue. With a loyal fan base and Irani's formidable presence, the reboot could set new benchmarks for the industry, further solidifying her status as a prominent figure in both entertainment and politics.

In conclusion, Smriti Irani's remarkable journey from a struggling actress to one of the highest-paid television stars in 2025 highlights not only personal triumph but also significant shifts within the Indian television landscape. As audiences await the reboot, the implications of this evolution will undoubtedly resonate throughout the industry for years to come.