Mumbai, October 23, 2025: In a landmark moment for Indian entertainment, global philanthropist Bill Gates will make a special appearance in Star Plus’ iconic show Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi. The three-episode feature, also starring Smriti Irani reprising her role as Tulsi Virani, uses storytelling to spotlight critical issues around maternal and child health and the importance of nutrition and healthcare access for women and newborns.
This first-of-its-kind collaboration between the Bill Gates Foundation and Star Plus represents a powerful convergence of entertainment and purpose, leveraging India’s most influential mass medium, television, to inspire awareness and action on issues that impact millions of families.
Smriti Irani, Former Union Minister and Actor, said, “This marks a historic moment for Indian television. For too long, women’s and children’s health has remained at the margins of mainstream dialogue. Kyunki has always been more than a show; it’s been a movement that mirrors our society. With Bill Gates’ presence, we’re taking that spirit forward — highlighting that when mothers are healthy, children thrive, and communities grow stronger.”
Ekta Kapoor, Producer and Managing Director, Balaji Telefilms, said, “Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi has always been a reflection of India’s changing social fabric, a show that connects generations through emotion and storytelling. With the new season of Kyunki, our aim was to evolve that legacy by giving entertainment a larger purpose. Having Bill Gates join this journey is truly a moment of pride, not just for us at Balaji but for Indian television as a whole. It is a testament to how stories can transcend boundaries and spark meaningful conversations about issues that truly matter, including women’s and children’s health, nutrition, and the power of community.”
Sumanta Bose, Head of Cluster, Entertainment (Hindi – Star Plus, Star Bharat, Star Utsav, Bengali, Marathi and Gujarati channels), JioStar said, “We believe that storytelling can do more than entertain, it can inform, inspire and drive awareness on issues that matter. Our shows have always reflected the realities and aspirations of the audiences we serve, and this collaboration with the Bill Gates Foundation reinforces that belief. By weaving topics of social significance into our narratives, we aim to create impact that reaches beyond the screen and brings about a meaningful difference in people’s lives. We are happy to have partnered with the Foundation on this important initiative.”
The special storyline, produced by Balaji Telefilms, focuses on a grassroots health initiative led by Tulsi Virani’s character, connecting communities and showcasing the importance of maternal nutrition and early childcare.
The episodes featuring Bill Gates will air starting 23rd October on Star Plus and will stream on JioHotstar.
With Bill Gates joining one of India’s most beloved TV shows, Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi bridges worlds where entertainment meets purpose and where the small screen sparks big conversations for a healthier tomorrow.
