Kyunki... Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi... (2000 - 2001)

Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi was a landmark Indian Hindi-language soap opera that aired on Star Plus from July 3, 2000, to November 6, 2008. Produced by Shobha and Ekta Kapoor under Balaji Telefilms, it followed the story of Tulsi Virani, an ideal daughter-in-law, played by Smriti Irani. The show was immensely popular, dominating TRP charts for seven years and peaking at a rating of 22.4 in May 2001. It debuted alongside Kaun Banega Crorepati and became a turning point for both Ekta Kapoor and Star Plus, spawning other hit serials like Kahaani Ghar Ghar Kii and Kasautii Zindagii Kay. The series won multiple awards, including 5 consecutive ITA Best Actress awards for Irani and numerous Best Serial accolades.