Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2's Prachi Kowli on her character, ‘it evolves with changing dynamics, making the narrative engaging and impactful’ - Exclusive

Being a part of a legendary show like Kyunkii Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2 feels truly surreal and deeply emotional. It’s a full-circle moment for me, returning to Balaji Telefilms, where my journey began with Kasauti Zindagi Kii, and stepping into a show that has shaped Indian television history. There’s a strong sense of nostalgia, gratitude, and excitement, and I’m just hoping the audience embraces me and the character with the same love they’ve always given this iconic show.

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How has your experience been shooting with Smriti Irani?

Smriti Irani is an inspiration in every sense, committed, multifaceted, and exceptional. She’s incredibly hardworking and deeply inspiring, and so being around her is truly motivating. Her journey, discipline, and grace are a constant reminder of what commitment and passion can achieve. She made me feel at home from day one, like I was with a very warm and grounded person.

Amar Upadhyay has been a part of Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi from the show’s inception. Your thoughts…

My very first interaction on the set was with Amar, and he was also the first to welcome me to the show. It was such a sweet gesture. He’s extremely easygoing, effortlessly at ease, and very cool, while being highly professional at the same time.

The original role of Pooja Hemant Virani was portrayed by Prachee Shah. Did you draw any inspiration from her character?

Prachee Shah has portrayed the character beautifully, and I have immense respect for her work. While I haven’t consciously drawn inspiration from her portrayal, I’ve tried to bring my own understanding, emotions, and individuality to the role, staying true to the essence of the character while making it my own.

What is the X factor of your character that you like the most?

The X-factor of my character lies in her positivity, quiet strength, and emotional depth. She is Tulsi’s strongest pillar, always standing firmly by her side and supporting her through every decision, which makes her both deeply relatable and quietly powerful.

What can the audience expect from your character?

Pooja has always been a very positive force in the family, and I’m sure I will have a very strong track to play post leap, but I’m an actor, and I would leave that decision entirely to Ekta ma’am and her team, they know what’s best for the character. My focus is to give my best and perform whatever the makers envision for me. In the post-leap phase, audiences can expect to see many new layers to my character.

Her journey becomes more nuanced and emotionally driven, with situations that test her strength, loyalty, and resilience. While she continues to stand firmly by Tulsi, she also evolves with the changing dynamics, making her track engaging and impactful.

Doing Kyunkii Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2 feels like a homecoming of sorts, especially with a show and a production house that have been such an important part of my journey. I feel grateful for the opportunity and hopeful that the audience connects with me and embraces this new chapter with the same warmth.

Why do you think concepts that are offbeat do not work like the ones you have been a part of, like Meri Bhavya Life and others, as compared to shows based on kitchen politics?

I think television is largely driven by habit and comfort viewing. Shows centered around family dynamics and household conflicts are familiar and emotionally accessible to a wide audience, which makes them easier to connect with on a daily basis. Offbeat concepts like Meri Bhavya Life are often more layered and require time for viewers to invest and adapt, and unfortunately they don’t always get that breathing space. That said, such shows are important because they push boundaries and add much-needed variety to television storytelling, even if they don’t always translate into immediate numbers.

But having said that, I enjoyed working in a pivotal role in Meri Bhavya Life too, and it was a deeply cherishable experience.

Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi marked the return of Smriti Irani to the showbiz world. The show has been receiving positive views ever since its launch earlier this year.