Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi S2 premiere episode review: Smriti Irani, Amar Upadhyay's show wallops nostalgia, Ekta Kapoor might bring back glory to TV

Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, India's iconic family drama, returns and the premiere episode cements the fact that it is here to stay. Producer Ekta Kapoor brings back Smriti Irani and Amar Upadhyay as beloved Tulsi and Mihir Virani, and nostalgia hits too hard while watching them together. The Second Season started on a high note, bringing back the memorable moments from the early 2000s, and setting up a world that will again put Tulsi to the litmus test.

Kyunki Season 2 is one show that I didn't expect, never thought I would want it. But deep down, I've the highest regard for the 2000 show, which has been an integral part of my childhood. The original season started on July 3, 2000 was one show my grandmother loved to watch. There is something truly magical about this family drama that pulled me back into watching daily soaps. 

Kyunki S2 starts with the iconic Shanti Niketan, where Tulsi Virani is praying to the huge Tulsi plant, acknowledging the blessings she receives to protect her family from every other obstacle. Then we are introduced to the Virani parivar in the memorable Smriti Irani style. We get to see a few members of the original cast, including Amar Upadhyay, Ketki Dave, Heten Tejwani, Gauri Pradhan, Shakti Anand, Ritu Chaudhary, and Kamalika Guha Thakurta, along with a new generation of actors portraying the young Virani family members. 

Season 2's first episode revolves around the 38th wedding anniversary of Tulsi and Mihir. What makes the premiere episode impactful is the blend of memorable moments from the original show recalled in the episode. We get to see the moments of young Tulsi and Mihir, striving through the toughest phases, together. Yes, the death and return of Mihir is also shown, and you feel nostalgia hitting right into your gut.

Speaking about performances, Smriti Irani, actress turned politician, makes a valuable return to television.  The innocence, calmness, and character arc of Tulsi are very much retained, and Smriti does a fine job. Amar Upadhaya, the man, has cracked the formula for being forever young. He is slick, dashing, and commands the same screen presence. In fact, he looks more comfortable and confident as Mihir Virani. Apara Mehta leaves a notable mark as Savita Irani. Though Savita passed away, she remains in Tulsi's memories, and their conversation will make you emotional. Ketki, Hiten, Gauri and Shakti will make you realise that the gap of 25 years is just a number, as you will instantly recognise them.  

What works for Kyunki 2 is the fact that they kept the soul of the show unchanged. The dialogues are simple and are said effortlessly. The powerful, memorable BGMs have been retained, and they are well placed. The sneak peek of the young vs old theme looks promising to hold our attention.

However, there are a few shortcomings to the episode as well, which include opting for huge sets with too many staff members, helpers, which makes Shanti Nikiten a little less of a house and more of a resort. The richness is there, but that's what makes it less realistic than the previous season. The new-gen actor lacks the charm of the OG cast. Sometimes, the show gives you a feeling of watching a pravachan channel. However, the director and screenwriter have made sure not to go full throttle with heavy dialoguebaazi, and maintained a fine balance. 

Overall, it seems like Ekta Kapoor might bring the glory back to Indian television again. Watch Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi Season 2, daily at 10.30 pm on Star Plus and JioHotstar. 

Rating: 3.5 stars