Smriti Irani becomes highest paid actress
Smriti Irani is back and she’s making waves like never before! The iconic Tulsi Virani has returned to television screens with the reboot of Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, and with it, Smriti Irani has set a stunning new benchmark in the industry: a whopping ₹14 lakh per episode, making her the highest-paid actor in Indian television history.
Smriti Irani becomes highest paid actress
That’s right her per-episode paycheck leaves even top-tier contemporaries like Anupamaa star Rupali Ganguly (₹3 lakh/episode) and TV darling Hina Khan (₹2 lakh/episode) far behind.
Smriti Irani becomes highest paid actress
A Legacy Reimagined
Originally launched in 2000, Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi changed the face of Indian TV. Tulsi Virani, played by Smriti Irani, became a household name and a symbol of the quintessential Indian daughter-in-law. Fast forward to today, and the reboot on StarPlus and JioCinema is once again creating buzz thanks in no small part to Irani’s powerful comeback.
Smriti Irani becomes highest paid actress
“Yes, I’m the Highest Paid”, Smriti Irani confirms
In a candid chat with CNN-News18, Irani didn’t shy away from confirming her top-tier status. She reflected on her journey from a struggling actor in the early 2000s to becoming television royalty. And she made one thing clear: her record-breaking fee isn’t just about fame, but consistent delivery of high TRPs and revenue for networks.
Smriti Irani becomes highest paid actress
“There’s a lot behind the scenes that viewers don’t see,” she shared, touching on contract negotiations, union memberships, and the professional ecosystem that governs actors’ pay. She emphasized that her success is a product of persistent hard work and strategic choices not luck.
A Star Who Lifts Others
True to her role on and off screen, Irani also spoke about her commitment to uplifting her co-stars. She noted that her presence on the reboot has helped increase the professional value of fellow actors like Amar Upadhyay, contributing to a rising tide that lifts all boats.
Smriti Irani becomes highest paid actress
“A true star doesn’t just shine alone,” she said. “They light the way for others too.”
With its nostalgic roots and a powerhouse cast, the reboot of Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi is bringing both old memories and fresh excitement to viewers and Smriti Irani is once again at the heart of it all, this time as a trailblazer for talent and pay equity in Indian television.
