In a groundbreaking moment for Indian television, Microsoft co-founder and philanthropist Bill Gates is set to appear in a special virtual cameo in the rebooted Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2, airing on Star Plus.

The iconic soap, which initially captivated audiences from 2000 to 2008, returned as a limited series on July 29, 2025.

Smriti Irani reprised her role as the beloved Tulsi Virani, and Amar Upadhyay played Mihir Virani.

Gates’ cameo, spanning three episodes, marks his second-ever TV appearance, following a guest spot on The Big Bang Theory.

The cameo is woven into a socially relevant storyline centered on maternal and newborn health awareness, aligning with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation’s mission to improve healthcare access in India and globally.

A recently released promo by Star Plus and Balaji Telefilms offers a glimpse of the interaction.

Tulsi initiates a video call, greeting Gates with her signature “Jai Shri Krishna.”

Gates responds with a warm “Namaste Tulsi ji, Jai Shri Krishna,” showcasing cultural respect.

Tulsi expresses her excitement, saying:

“Bahut accha laga yeh jaanke ki aap seedha America se mere parivaar se jud rahe hai.

Aapka hum sab besabri se intezaar kar rahe hai” (It feels wonderful knowing you are connecting directly with my family from America. We are eagerly awaiting you).

The current plot follows Tulsi navigating generational conflicts while raising her daughter, Pari, played by Shagun Sharma.

Gates’ virtual appearance addresses health challenges for pregnant women and newborns, emphasizing accessible care and empathy.

The promo’s caption underscores the theme:

“Do alag duniyaan, ek hi maqsad ke saath – maa aur bachche ki sehat, har ghar tak pahunchani hai” (Two different worlds, one goal: maternal and child health reaching every home).

Smriti Irani, who also produces, hailed the cameo as a “historic moment” for Indian television.

In a statement, Smriti Irani said:

“For far too long, women’s and children’s health has remained at the margins of mainstream dialogue.”

“This initiative is a powerful step towards changing that. Bringing Bill Gates into the Virani household is not something you would normally expect on a television show, but it is a testament to its commitment to impactful storytelling.”

The crossover leverages the show’s massive cultural footprint.

Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi was one of India’s highest-rated soaps during its original run to amplify critical health messages.

This is not the first time the reboot has featured notable guest stars; actors like Sakshi Tanwar and Kiran Karmarkar have also appeared, adding to the show’s buzz.

Fans eagerly awaiting the episodes can catch the action on Star Plus, with air dates to be confirmed soon.

Check Star Plus’ official social media or Balaji Telefilms’ announcements for updates.

This unexpected blend of pop culture and philanthropy is poised to make waves, proving that even a soap opera can spark meaningful change.