Ektaa Kapoor is reviving Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, a show that dominated Indian television for eight years, to spark meaningful conversations and address important social issues. The show is making a comeback after 25 years since it first aired. The reboot, titled Kyunki Saas Abhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, will premiere on July 29 on Star Plus and JioCinema (Hotstar).
Kapoor initially hesitated to revisit the series, fearing that a reboot might tarnish the original's legacy. She acknowledged that television has evolved, with today's audience consuming high-gloss content rather than multi-year soap operas. Kapoor wondered if the reboot would "shake the legacy of Kyunki" in terms of TRPs. However, she realized that the show's legacy was more than just high numbers.
Kapoor's decision to revive Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi was influenced by a global study that analyzed the impact of her shows, including Kyunki and Kahaani Ghar Ghar Ki. The study's findings revealed that these serials had empowered Indian women to voice their opinions within their families. Between 2000 and 2005, women began participating in family discussions, a shift deeply influenced by Indian television, especially Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi and Kahaani Ghar Ghar Ki. The show brought discussions about domestic violence, marital rape, age shaming, and euthanasia to Indian homes.
Kapoor realized that the show's ending was "abrupt and unfinished". She questioned whether they could keep Kyunki away from today's storytelling formats and focus on the issues that television once bravely addressed. She also wondered if they could make it about impactful stories, not TRPs. Kapoor stated, "Let's create a show that's not afraid to raise important questions, that sparks conversations, and stands out in a time dominated by visual gimmicks".
The reboot will be a limited-episode series, unlike the original's long run of over 1,800 episodes between 2000 and 2008. Smriti Irani will reprise her role as Tulsi Virani. Kapoor emphasized that Kyunki is returning with limited episodes to celebrate 25 years with an intent to impact, entertain, probe thoughts, and inspire. She hopes to give a voice, bring a much-awaited change, and remain relatable and inclusive without being preachy.
Kapoor acknowledged that they will never win against nostalgia, but the fight is about impact. She wants the show to provoke thought, start conversations, and perhaps once again, change homes across India. Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi became a mirror reflecting Indian society's evolving dynamics. The show covered intergenerational conflicts and social taboos, prompting conversation at millions of dinner tables across India.
