In an unprecedented move, Microsoft co-founder and philanthropist Bill Gates is set to make a special appearance on the popular Indian television show Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2. This cameo will see Gates offering "key advice" to Smriti Irani, who reprises her iconic role as Tulsi Virani, via a video call within the show's narrative. The collaboration aims to leverage the show's wide reach to raise awareness about critical health issues.
The storyline will unfold over three episodes and will focus on creating and improving awareness about the health of pregnant women and newborns. This cause aligns with the work of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, making the collaboration a natural fit. A source close to the show revealed that Smriti Irani was keen to use the show as a platform to promote health and social awareness through storytelling.
Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2 has been incorporating social issues into its narrative. The show has previously addressed topics such as body positivity, generational gaps, and women's empowerment. Smriti Irani has been actively involved in creating awareness about various social issues, and has used her platform to highlight challenges women face.
The appearance of Bill Gates in Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2 is not Gates' first foray into television. He has previously appeared in shows like Frasier and The Big Bang Theory. This cameo marks his Indian television debut.
The reunion of Tulsi and Parvati from Kahaani Ghar Ghar Kii has already created excitement among viewers. Smriti Irani expressed her gratitude for the audience's continued support of the show. She acknowledged the show's impact on people's lives and its role in portraying strong female characters.
Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, which initially aired in 2000, became a household name and a favorite among viewers. The show made a comeback with its second season on July 29, 2025, quickly climbing the TRP charts. Smriti Irani's salary for the original show was ₹1,800 per episode, which has now increased to a reported ₹14 lakh per episode for the reboot.
This collaboration between Bill Gates and Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2 highlights the potential of using popular entertainment to promote social causes and engage a wide audience in important conversations about health and well-being.