MUMBAI (Diya TV) — Billionaire entrepreneur Bill Gates is set to make a special appearance on Indian television with a cameo in Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2. The surprise appearance by the Microsoft co-founder has sparked excitement among fans of the long-running family drama. A new promo released by Star Plus shows Gates joining Smriti Irani’s iconic character, Tulsi Virani, over a video call. The clip opens with Tulsi greeting him warmly, saying, “Jai Shri Krishna.” Gates smiles and repeats the greeting before the two exchange pleasantries.
Tulsi tells him, “It feels wonderful to know that you are connecting directly with my family all the way from America. We are all eagerly waiting for you.” Gates replies, “Thank you, Tulsi ji,” in a moment that has quickly gone viral online. This cameo marks Gates’ second-ever television appearance. He previously made a guest appearance on the American sitcom The Big Bang Theory.
While the cameo is virtual, it carries a deeper message. According to The Times of India, Gates’ segment will focus on important social topics such as maternal and newborn health. He will also highlight the charitable work of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation in these areas.
Gates has long been involved in health and development initiatives in India. His foundation works with the Indian government and several NGOs to improve healthcare access and reduce infant mortality. His presence in a popular Indian TV show aims to bring greater attention to these issues through mainstream entertainment.
Smriti Irani, who returned to acting after more than a decade in politics, confirmed Gates’ appearance in an interview with CNBC-TV18. Irani, who served as India’s Minister for Women and Child Development, described the collaboration as a “historic moment in Indian entertainment.”
“For far too long, women and children’s health has remained on the margins of mainstream dialogue,” Irani said. “This initiative is a powerful step towards changing that.”
She added, “To bring together one of the world’s most respected global voices with one of Indian television’s most influential storytellers is more than a collaboration — it is the start of a Jan Andolan, a people’s movement rooted in awareness, empathy, and action.”
Produced by Ekta Kapoor’s Balaji Telefilms, Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi first premiered in 2000. It became one of the most popular and longest-running shows in Indian television history, airing 1,833 episodes until 2008.
Seventeen years later, the show made its comeback earlier this year with Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2. The revival brought back Smriti Irani as Tulsi Virani, a role that defined her early career before she transitioned into politics. The reboot continues to explore family values, generational conflicts, and social themes that resonate with viewers across India. Irani has said the new version aims to discuss modern issues such as gender equality, body positivity, and the changing dynamics between generations.
In the current storyline, Tulsi is seen guiding her daughter, Pari, who often challenges traditional beliefs with her modern outlook. The emotional and ideological clash between the two forms the core of the drama, blending traditional storytelling with contemporary relevance.
