Former Union minister and actress-turned-politician Smriti Irani says her period after losing the 2024 Lok Sabha elections became a turning point in her personal and professional life. Speaking in interviews, she characterizes the defeat as “liberating,” saying her mindset shifted from trying to prove herself in politics to focusing on what she could contribute after the loss.
Irani also describes how she approached people in the media and entertainment industry herself rather than waiting for opportunities. She says she “picked up [her] phone and asked for work,” telling contacts that she did not have a job and requesting assignments. She recalls that the experience surprised some observers, including those who did not expect her to return to television after entering politics.
In July 2025, Irani returned to acting with the second season of Ekta Kapoor’s Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, reprising her role as Tulsi Virani. Multiple outlets note the show premiered on Star Plus and was streamed on JioHotstar. Alongside her acting, Irani continues political work, including ongoing involvement with the BJP’s organisational activities in Uttar Pradesh.
