The television landscape in India has seen many iconic shows, but few have left a legacy as enduring as Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi. Now, in 2025, nearly two decades after the original series reshaped Indian TV, “Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2” has returned—and it’s taking the TRP charts by storm.
Premiering in July 2025, the reboot has quickly climbed the ratings ladder, going head-to-head with stalwarts like Anupamaa, currently one of Indian television’s most watched dramas. The result? A full-blown TRP battle that has audiences glued to their screens every evening.
🎭 Returning Faces and New Drama
One of the most anticipated aspects of the sequel was the return of beloved characters, and the creators did not disappoint. At the heart of the show is the irreplaceable Smriti Irani, reprising her iconic role as Tulsi Virani. Despite her prominent political career, Irani’s return to television was welcomed like a festival, proving the emotional bond viewers still hold with her character.
Joining her is Amar Upadhyay, once again stepping into the shoes of Mihir Virani—a role that made him a household name. The chemistry between Tulsi and Mihir, with all its history, emotional weight, and familial complexity, is as compelling as ever.
But this is not just a nostalgia project. The reboot cleverly blends the past with the present, introducing new characters and fresh conflicts that resonate with today’s generation.
🚨 Three New Entries to Shake Things Up
With the show’s momentum growing, the creators are strategically bringing in new characters to inject even more drama into the storyline. Here’s a look at the latest entries stirring up the Virani household:
1. Rahul Chawla – The Spy with a Hidden Agenda
Known for his role in Pandya Store, Rahul Chawla joins Kyunki 2 as a mysterious, grey-shaded character. His role? A spy hired by the Parekh family to keep tabs on Pari, the daughter of Tulsi and Mihir.
Pari, already a source of rising tension in the family, becomes even more entangled in controversy with Rahul’s character watching her every move. His presence brings suspense and potential betrayal—ingredients that add an exciting layer of thriller-like intrigue to the family saga.
2. Samar Birje – Karan’s Son
The child actor Samar Birje, known for his work in Lagnachi Bedi, steps into the role of Karan’s son. With roots in the Virani family’s second generation, Samar’s character is expected to play a crucial role in shaping upcoming plot twists, especially as legacy and lineage become key themes in the story.
3. Jia Narigara – Nandini’s Daughter
Actress Jia Narigara, previously seen in Kasautii Zindagii Kay 2, joins as Nandini’s daughter. Her role adds emotional and generational complexity, particularly in scenes that explore mother-daughter dynamics, cultural values, and modern-day adolescent struggles.
Together, Samar and Jia represent the next generation of Viranis, keeping the family drama multigenerational and relatable to viewers across all age groups.
📺 What’s Happening in the Story Now?
The current storyline is a carefully woven tapestry of emotion, conflict, betrayal, and redemption—true to the essence of the original Kyunki.
Tulsi’s Trials Continue
Tulsi, as always, stands as the moral center of the family. But she faces new-age challenges that test her strength as a mother, wife, and matriarch. Her character continues to evolve, portraying the modern Indian woman—rooted in values but capable of confronting change head-on.
Pari’s Dark Path
Pari, Tulsi and Mihir’s daughter, is emerging as a major force in the plot. Far from being the innocent next-gen character, she is secretly plotting against the Parekh family, engaging in manipulative tactics that set the stage for internal betrayal.
This shift not only surprises viewers but also pushes Tulsi to confront the possibility that her own daughter may be one of her greatest challenges yet.
Mihir – The Matchmaker?
In a rather unexpected turn, Mihir has stepped into the role of a matchmaker, trying to help Noina (played by Barkha Bisht) find happiness again. This development, while well-intentioned, has stirred emotional tension—especially as past feelings, unresolved emotions, and old loyalties come back into play.
Is Mihir truly helping, or is he unknowingly endangering his own family? That question keeps fans engaged every night.
🌟 Why It’s Working
Several key elements explain why Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2 has been able to captivate both old fans and a new generation of viewers:
✔️ Nostalgia with a Purpose
The return of Smriti Irani and Amar Upadhyay isn’t just fan service. Their characters are deeply embedded in the narrative and evolve with the times. The reboot doesn’t merely recreate the past—it builds on it, honoring the original while moving forward.
✔️ Strong Character Arcs
Whether it’s Tulsi’s moral dilemma, Pari’s transformation, or Mihir’s unexpected evolution, each character is being given time and complexity. This adds richness to the story and makes the drama feel organic rather than forced.
✔️ High-Quality Production
From costumes to cinematography, the show reflects a modern aesthetic, without losing the quintessential Indian family soap feel. Music, visuals, and set designs elevate the drama and ensure high emotional impact.
✔️ Fresh Twists, Consistent Emotion
The inclusion of thriller elements (like Rahul Chawla’s spy character), young actors, and socially relevant themes gives the reboot a sense of urgency and freshness. Yet the show remains grounded in emotion, the heart of Indian television storytelling.
Shakti Anand’s Return as Hemant Virani
Confirmed Return: Shakti Anand is reprising his original role as Hemant Jamnadas Virani.
His Importance in Season 2:
Acts as a connecting bridge between the older Virani family and the younger generation.
Represents stability and tradition in the storyline as new conflicts unfold.
Helps transition from Tulsi and Mihir’s era to their children’s stories.
Shakti himself said in an interview:
“It’s an emotional moment for me to come back to the show where my journey began. Kyunki was my first show, and playing Hemant again feels like coming home.”
(India Forums)
📝 Season 2 Storyline Highlights
The reboot focuses on Tulsi and Mihir’s children and their personal conflicts.
Pari (Paridhi) and Naina are at the center of fresh drama and family politics.
Hemant Virani plays a mentor and peacemaker as tensions rise between the old and new generations.
Major plots include:
The future of the Virani business empire.
Complicated love triangles and hidden betrayals.
A mysterious character (played by Barkha Bisht) causing turmoil within the family.
🏁 Final Thoughts
Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2 has proven that great storytelling, iconic characters, and smart reinvention can still dominate the television landscape. While competing shows like Anupamaa have had a long-standing presence, Kyunki 2 is quickly establishing itself as a formidable contender, bringing back the era of family epics that speak to the soul.
Whether you’re watching for nostalgia, curiosity, or the sheer thrill of family drama done right, one thing is clear: Tulsi is back—and so is Indian TV’s love affair with the Virani family.
