Smriti Irani, Ekta Kapoor mark 21 years of Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi: 'Show changed many lives'

Celebrating 21 years of her iconic show Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, Union Minister and former actor Smriti Irani said the long-running series was a life-changing experience not only for the audience but also the people who worked on it.

Produced by Shobha Kapoor and Ekta Kapoor-led Balaji Telefilms, the soap opera premiered on July 3, 2000 and ran for eight years, clocking more than 1,800 episodes.

Irani became a household name with her character of Tulsi Virani, an ideal daughter-in-law, who goes through a series of ups and downs while protecting her family.

Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi was a turning point for the politician, who had featured in music videos and two TV shows before bagging the landmark series.

Irani, 45, took to Instagram late Saturday evening and posted a video montage of the show to mark the occasion.

We made a promise ‘Phir Milenge’, a promise we could not keep...

21 yrs ago began a journey which changed many a lives - brought joy to some, annoyed a few but impacted all who saw it, who worked for it. Thank you for the memories! @ektarkapoor @nairsameer @tarunkatial @StarPlus pic.twitter.com/vaq3BW0suR

— Smriti Z Irani (@smritiirani) July 3, 2021

The Star Plus show saw three-time leaps, before going off-air in November 2008. Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi became a prime time success as it captivated the audience with its melodramatic storytelling, aspirational family values and characters. Ekta Kapoor took to Instagram and reposted a fan video, writing, "Many moons ago. This day. changed my life!"

Many moons ago, this day
Changed my life! Thank you @StarPlus @nairsameer @smritiirani Rajubhai Vipul Bhai n everyone associated! JAI SHREE KRISHNA

Credits: #starpariwaar pic.twitter.com/9iRjxAcnuH

— Ekta Kapoor (@ektarkapoor) July 3, 2021

Several of the show's cast members, including Mouni Roy, Hiten Tejwani and Anita Hassanandani also commented on Irani's post.