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Smriti Irani Back as Tulsi in ‘Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi’ Reboot | First Look

July 7, 2025, 8:01 pm

The fans simply cannot wait to see Smriti Irani return to television with the much-awaited remake of Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi. On Monday, a first look of Smriti playing her classic role of Tulsi Virani made it online.

Dressed in a maroon saree with a rich zari border, Smriti completes Tulsi’s signature look with a bold red bindi, traditional temple jewellery, and a black-beaded mangalsutra. This reboot marks her return to acting after a 15-year hiatus.

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The Legacy of ‘Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi’

First telecast on Star Plus between July 3, 2000, and November 6, 2008, Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi is still among the most influential Indian soap operas. Produced by Ekta Kapoor under Balaji Telefilms, the show had more than 1,800 episodes and achieved unprecedented milestones, recording double-digit TRPs for six consecutive years. It was a milestone success for Ekta and Smriti alike.

Centered around Tulsi, the perfect daughter-in-law and daughter of a pandit, the narrative tracked her marriage into the Virani family, she married Mihir, the grandson of business tycoon Govardhan Virani.

Cast, Launch Plans, and Nostalgia

The extremely popular show is finally ready for its comeback, with Smriti returning to play Tulsi and Amar Upadhyay once again playing Mihir. Though it was originally scheduled to premiere on July 3, production was slightly delayed.

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Smriti recently reminisced about 25 years of the show’s history by posting a note and a picture on Instagram.

“25 years ago, a tale came into Indian homes and softly became a part of so many lives. Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi was not only a show, it was feeling, memory, ritual. A moment when families stopped everything to sit together… cry, laugh, hope. To each of the millions of viewers who made Tulsi a part of their own family…thank you. This journey wasn’t mine alone. It was ours. And it always will be.”

Smriti Irani’s NYC Day: Saree in Times Square to Meeting Friends

March 16, 2025, 12:27 pm

Large cities such as New York City tend to necessitate that visitors carefully plan, compressing several days into a schedule to ensure the best use of their stay. But as is evidenced by former Union Minister Smriti Irani, one day can sometimes suffice to create lifelong memories.

Smriti’s whirlwind 24-hour tour of the Big Apple was an exhilarating experience, ranging from sightseeing the city in a saree to good food and catching up with friends. Pondering over the city’s frenetic pace, she had this to say, “In a New York minute, you can live a whole life in it,” epitomizing the city’s around-the-clock life.

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During her visit, Smriti also got to meet celebrity chef Vikas Khanna, who has opened his restaurant Bungalow in NYC recently. She also visited the famous Times Square, where she posed in a pink saree with wide red borders, mingling tradition with the city’s urbanity of billboards and traffic. She also had a fun experience of ‘Dancing Heads’ with her Southeast Asian friend at the UN.

In her blog, she had posted, “In a ‘New York’ minute … they say you can live a whole life in it: I just spent a mere 24 hours in the city.”. From the perpetually smiling, modest master chef who launched a renowned ‘Bungalow’ in NYC to imparting the ‘dancing heads ‘ trick to my South East Asian friends at the UN; it felt 24 hours is all it took for me to create a lifetime of memories. To freedom, friends and fancy food ❤️

Smriti’s day was an action-packed mix of cultural immersion, connections, and the energetic spirit of New York City, all concentrated into a single day.

Audiences reacted with great enthusiasm towards Smriti’s saree-wearing city exploration. A user compared it to Sridevi’s persona in English Vinglish and commented, “It reminds me of Sridevi from English Vinglish, wandering the streets of New York in a saree! Lovely pictures, Smriti Ji!” Another complimented her interpretation of New York’s ‘live for the moment’ culture and remarked, “So well written ? Matter of moments, not days at all…❤️”

Times Square, famous for its bright lights and crowded vibe, proved to be the ideal setting for Smriti’s saree attire. One fan praised her elegant presence, writing, “Sari at Times Square ????” Another joked, “Ma’am, did you halt NYC traffic just for the pic?” while another joked, , “You brought traffic to a standstill. Literally. @smritiiraniofficial”

NXT Conclave 2025: AI Discrimination? Smriti Irani Calls Out Gender and Racial Bias in Tech

February 28, 2025, 11:42 pm

In a stimulating conversation at the NXT Conclave 2025, organized by Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on February 28, Smriti Irani, former Union Minister, discussed with Rishabh Gulati, Editor-in-Chief of NewsX. Discussing the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in gender equity, Irani insisted that technology is not devoid of bias and AI-based systems tend to sharpen existing social inequalities.

Technology and Gender Bias in AI

In her address, Smriti Irani highlighted the myth that technology is neutral. She stated, “I think one of the greatest fallacies that have been sold is that technology is agnostic to bias. As AI grows, one recognizes, realizes, and many people monetize the fact that technology has created certain schisms, certain gaps which have become opportunities for many those who have lived as thought leaders or as policy makers dedicated to equity. Their decadal presumption was that equality will be assured. That is still a challenge when you talk about the age, let’s say, of AI, many people compute how much it will add to a nation’s GDP.”

She emphasized that though the role of AI in boosting economic growth is talked about, nothing much is mentioned regarding how it impacts consumer behavior at a psychological level. Quoting worldwide studies, she mentioned that 80–90% of what women earn is spent on healthcare and education. Yet, AI-powered consumer algorithms push women towards spending money on perishables and not towards investment opportunities. “Research says 72% of purchasing decisions are affected by algorithms. One would presume that that algorithm would deepen your engagement as a woman on spans of education and health, because you are genetically predisposed to it. But what happens is that technology and the Journal of Psychology especially says that women, through algorithms, get 22% more spending on perishable consumables and at 30% less likely to get algorithmically driven data sets or content, which encourages them to invest.”

AI and Credit Bias: Berkeley Research Insights

Smriti Irani referred to a study by Genevieve Smith at Berkeley that had analyzed gender bias in 133 AI systems. The research found bias in 44% of the systems, which resulted in financial losses for women.

She gave an illustration of how Smith and her husband, who both had comparable financial histories, received different credit limits because of AI bias. “Genevieve Smith, along with her husband, applied for a credit card in the US. She had the same money in the bank. They in fact had a joint account. Her credit score was better than the husband’s, and her tax returns were as transparent as the husband’s. She got credit 10% less than the husband, not 20% less.” That led her to begin researching the technological impact of how women increase, or how women’s creditworthiness decreases over time.

Such is the real-life scenario that unveiled how AI-based financial systems tend to undermine women’s economic power, perpetuating imbalances that needed to be wiped out centuries ago.

Gender Disparity in Facial Recognition and AI Systems

Smriti Irani also identified racial and gender discrimination in AI-based systems. She underlined the fact that 80% of facial recognition technology is trained mostly on white skin, which generates flaws in identity verification for individuals with other ethnic backgrounds. Most AI models also base their safety tests on male physiology, which causes serious implications for women.

“They use a male body or the dynamics of a male body on an AI system. They do not look at anticipate a female driving and the impact on a female body and do not anticipate a pregnant woman driving. And research now has showed that in the same scenario, because women at the secure testing drive phase itself are missing as a consideration in research, 44% women are more likely to be injured in the same kind of accident that a man may have, and 17% more are likely to die as compared to men.”

She also showed how prejudices cut deeper than just face recognition. AI imaging devices find it challenging to identify left-handed handwriting due to the excessive predominance in training data regarding right-handed users.

“If it perpetuates bias, I mentioned left hand right, and you ask an AI imaging tool to come up with an image of a left hand person writing, they can’t, because it is such a bias that all the images they’re trained on are right handed. So when, there can be a racial bias when it comes to the data scraping that you’re doing, we’ve seen that in facial recognition systems, 80% of them are based on either a white skin or a male even, fingerprint scanners.”

The Economic Cost of Gender Inequality in AI

In response to whether gender bias in AI would have an economic cost, Irani identified that there is a silence surrounding the monetary loss arising from institutional biases. She demonstrated how attention has always been geared towards rights as opposed to the economic effect.

“I think one of the greatest tragedies which has happened on the issue of gender, is that we’ve always had a rights based conversation on it. If there was an equal amount of conversation on the economic impact of not ensuring equity, we would have not seen the kind of bias which right now is hidden in a lot of rhetoric.”

She emphasized that if the world had an understanding of the economic drawbacks of AI bias earlier, attempts toward achieving artificial general intelligence would have been more balanced.

“But we would have not seen it if we had made an evidence based economic case for it, maybe a decade, decade and a half ago. Okay, so huge amount of effort is now being made to reach the goal of artificial general intelligence, and we are going to be devoting hundreds of billions of dollars in the compute in the hardware to get this done.”

A Call for Inclusive AI Development

Smriti Irani’s address at the NXT Conclave 2025 underscored the urgent need to address AI’s inherent biases. She highlighted the disparities in algorithm-driven financial decisions, consumer behavior, and safety measures, urging for inclusive and fair AI development.

Her insights served as a wake-up call for policymakers, technologists, and industry leaders to ensure that AI works for everyone, regardless of gender or race.

Smriti Irani at Davos: Rethinking Productivity Through Health Innovation

January 22, 2025, 2:26 pm

At the World Economic Forum (WEF) held in Davos, former Union Minister Smriti Irani engaged in a conversation with NDTV about various issues, focusing particularly on the importance of viewing productivity from a health perspective. She highlighted a key concern — the world has long discussed productivity through the lens of skill sets, but has largely ignored how health plays a pivotal role in it. As the chief of the Alliance for Global Good-Gender Equity and Equality (AGG-GEE), launched in 2024, Irani emphasized that this health-centric view could revolutionize how we approach productivity, especially for women.

One of the dominant themes of WEF each year is inclusion, a subject that has grown more complex with the inclusion of diverse perspectives, particularly from women. Irani stressed that when the global conversation about inclusion arises, it should not only center around diversity but also the essential role that women play in shaping economies and societies. She pointed out that India’s narrative about inclusion and women’s contribution is no longer just about the nation’s demographic challenges. Instead, India should be seen as a leader in driving global change on topics like inclusion, climate change, and health innovations.

Irani made it clear that while India has made strides in addressing these issues within its borders, it is now time to take these learnings to the global stage. She emphasized that India is sharing its experiences and solutions at international platforms like the United Nations and the World Bank, collaborating with the World Health Organization (WHO) and industry leaders to ensure that women-owned businesses and health innovations receive the funding and attention they need. Irani passionately argued that these efforts were not just about improving conditions for women within India but ensuring that the solutions could benefit the world at large.

A key part of the conversation focused on the economic power of women. Irani pointed out that women currently control a third of the world’s wealth, and this figure is expected to rise to 50% in the next five years. Yet, this massive economic contribution is often overlooked in discussions about women’s empowerment. Instead, discussions tend to focus on philanthropic issues, such as domestic violence. Irani argued that real empowerment comes from improving women’s capital capacity, which leads to safer environments both at home and at work. She stressed that these financial realities are a vital part of the inclusion agenda and that investment in women’s businesses and health-related innovations must be prioritized.

Smriti Irani also addressed a pressing concern at the heart of the WEF’s conversation — the potential impact of artificial intelligence (AI) and automation on the workforce, especially women. AI and automation are expected to disrupt many industries, and Irani warned that women, particularly those in entry-level jobs, would be disproportionately affected by job losses. She questioned the readiness of policymakers and companies to address the displacement of talent, particularly in low-income economies, where the internet penetration is still limited.

The conversation around AI at Davos focused primarily on the next level of AI engagement. While generative AI, which produces content like music or art based on a prompt, has been in the spotlight, Irani highlighted the rise of AI agents. These agents, which combine various aspects of AI technology, are set to become a key part of the workforce in the near future. However, Irani warned that their arrival could exacerbate the displacement of talent, particularly in countries that are still developing economically. This issue of job displacement will no longer be seen as just a “female problem”; it will become a widespread concern for economies globally, especially those in low-income regions that have yet to achieve a high per capita income.

In discussing the link between health and productivity, Irani underscored the importance of investing in health innovations, particularly those aimed at women. Citing data that shows every dollar invested in maternal health yields a $30 return due to increased productivity and reduced mortality, Irani warned that global economies could lose trillions of dollars if they fail to address the health challenges that limit women’s productivity. She argued that this conversation about the impact of health on productivity has largely been ignored, and it is time for it to be addressed.

Irani’s work in championing women’s health and gender equality has been a cornerstone of her political career. She expressed a deep concern that the conversation around productivity tends to focus solely on skill development, leaving health innovations out of the equation. Irani’s goal, she explained, is to keep a clear focus on the need for greater investment in health innovations for women. She believes that improving women’s health not only leads to better productivity but also directly contributes to the economic well-being of nations.

The conversation surrounding productivity at Davos underscores the importance of a more comprehensive approach, one that integrates health as a crucial factor. Irani’s comments reflect a growing understanding that productivity is not just about how skilled workers are but also about their overall well-being. As women continue to play a critical role in the global economy, their health must be prioritized to ensure their ability to contribute effectively.

The WEF’s discussions around AI, gender equality, and women’s health innovation show a shifting perspective on how we think about productivity. Smriti Irani’s remarks serve as a wake-up call to policymakers, businesses, and global leaders that a holistic approach to productivity — one that includes health as a key component — is not only necessary but imperative for sustainable growth. As the world grapples with the challenges of AI, automation, and economic disruption, it is clear that taking care of women’s health and empowering them economically is a step toward a more inclusive and prosperous future for all.

In conclusion, the shift toward viewing productivity through a health lens is a crucial move toward ensuring the well-being of the workforce, especially women. Smriti Irani’s insights at Davos highlight the need for more investment in health innovations for women, arguing that it will yield long-term economic benefits. The intersection of health, productivity, and gender equality must be central to global conversations if we are to create a future where women are not only equal participants but leaders in the global narrative.

Smriti Irani Inaugurates Next-Generation Surgical Robot in New Delhi

December 11, 2024, 4:01 pm

Next generation surgical robot, setting a new benchmark in Cardiothoracic & Vascular Surgery (CTVS), Urology and GI Surgeries launched by Fortis Escorts, Okhla Road, New Delhi on Tuesday. The Surgical Robot is a next-generation medical technology designed to assist in complex surgeries with greater precision and control. This robot represents a significant advancement in robotic-assisted surgery, enabling minimally invasive procedures that promise faster recovery times, reduced risk of complications, and improved overall patient outcomes.

The Surgical Robot was launched by Smriti Irani (BJP Leader & Former Union Minister) who graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. She was joined by Dr. Ashok Seth, Chairman, Fortis Escorts Heart Institute & Fortis Healthcare Medical Council, Dr. Bishnu Panigrahi, Group Head – MSOG, Dr. Z S Meharwal – Chairman and Head – Adult Cardiac Surgery, VAD Programme and Heart Transplant, Dr Ritwick Raj Bhuyan, Director, Adult Cardiac Surgery, Dr Milind Hote, Director, Adult Cardiac Surgery, Dr Paresh Jain, Director, Urology & Kidney Transplant, Dr Sanjay Verma, Director, Minimal Access, GI & Bariatric Surgery, & Dr. Vikram Aggarwal, Facility Director, Fortis Escorts, Okhla.

Speaking at the launch, BJP leader and former Union Minister Smt. Smriti Irani said, “I compliment Fortis Healthcare for leading the way in adopting advanced medical technologies like the Surgical Robot. This innovation represents a significant step in enhancing patient care, enabling faster recovery and minimally invasive procedures. Fortis’s commitment to excellence ensures that patients receive world-class treatment, reinforcing India’s position as a leader in healthcare innovation.”

Dr Ritwick Raj Bhuyan, Director, Adult Cardiac Surgery, Fortis Escorts, Okhla, New Delhi said, “What makes SURGICAL ROBOT unique from other surgical systems is its open console design, which provides surgeon with a 3D vision of the surgical site. This enhances precision while avoiding the need for large bone cuts in cardiac procedures. The 360-degree vision ensures a clear view of the internal structures thus leading to efficient tissue handling, reduced post-surgical trauma. In cardiac bypass operations, it facilitates complete restoration of blood in the blocked arteries with minimal scarring. Additionally, certain valve repairs and congenital heart defect closures can be performed with just 2 small pin hole incisions, allowing patients to return home within 3 days of surgery”

“Recently, we successfully treated a 70-year-old man from Assam with severe blockages in his heart using the Surgical Robot. Earlier this year, the patient underwent angioplasty at another hospital in Delhi. Although the procedure was initially successful, he began experiencing chest pain within a week and required medication to manage his symptoms. His condition failed to improve, and he was advised to undergo an open-heart surgery (coronary artery bypass grafting) to replace the blocked stents. Concerned about the risks associated with open-heart surgery, particularly due to his weak and fragile bones, the patient sought our opinion. After thoroughly evaluating his case, we opted for a robotic-assisted heart bypass operation using the Surgical Robot. This approach avoided the need for bone cutting, minimized pain, and significantly reduced blood loss. We successfully opened all three blocked arteries, and the patient experienced an exceptionally smooth recovery,” said Dr. Ritwick Raj Bhuyan.

Smriti Irani Launches Indian People’s Forum Women Council In Dubai

November 23, 2024, 5:04 am

On Friday, former Union Minister Smriti Irani inaugurated the Indian People’s Forum (IPF) Women Council at the India Club in Dubai. The initiative aims to amplify the voices of Indian women in the UAE, celebrating their contributions across diverse fields.

Sharing her thoughts on X, Irani remarked:

“This landmark initiative represents a renewed commitment to supporting Indian women and showcasing their vibrancy on the global stage.”

She extended her heartfelt congratulations to the IPF family, emphasizing the transformative journey ahead for the Women Council.

Strengthening India-UAE Collaboration

Irani also participated in an exclusive roundtable discussion hosted by Rashid bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the Ajman Government Executive Council. The roundtable, titled “India-UAE Synergies: Exploring Strategic Market Opportunities in India,” brought together prominent business leaders and investors.

Held at Sheikh Rashid’s residence, the dialogue centered on:

Economic collaboration between India and the UAE
India’s socio-economic transformation under Prime Minister Narendra Modi
Opportunities for UAE-based Indian-origin businesses

Insights from Leaders

Rashid bin Humaid Al Nuaimi underscored the enduring partnership between the two nations, built on mutual trust and shared ambitions. He highlighted potential areas of collaboration, including:

Technology
Renewable energy
Education

“Fostering innovation and strategic partnerships can drive meaningful change,” Rashid emphasized.

MODIALOGUE and Shared Vision

At the event, Ashwin Fernandes, author of MODIALOGUE: Conversations for a Viksit Bharat, presented Rashid with a copy of his book. The book explores Prime Minister Modi’s governance vision, linking it to global principles of inclusivity and development.

Reflecting on the India-UAE relationship, Irani stated:

“Under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, India is a beacon of innovation and progress. Events like these foster collaboration to elevate our partnership to new heights.”

Notable Attendees

The event included key business leaders and investors such as:

Sajith Ansar (Founder and CEO, Idea Spice)
Ruchi Dana (Board Member, Dana Group)
Sanjay Parashar (Founder, Cocoona Clinics)
Paras Shahdadpuri (Chairman, Nikai Group)
Dr. Moideen Thumbay (Founder, Thumbay Group)
Shamsheer Vayalil (Chairman, Burjeel Holdings)
Nilesh Ved (Chairman, Apparel Group)

A Collaborative Future

This gathering symbolizes the strengthening of ties between two dynamic economies. As both nations continue to work together, such events highlight the potential for growth and innovation, paving the way for a prosperous future.

Smriti Irani Joins India-UAE Roundtable

November 22, 2024, 3:35 pm

Former Cabinet Minister Smriti Irani participated in a roundtable discussion hosted by Sheikh Rashid bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Chairman of the Ajman Government Executive Council, on Friday. The event, held at Sheikh Rashid’s residence in Ajman, focused on strengthening bilateral ties between India and the United Arab Emirates.

Titled “India-UAE Synergies: Exploring Strategic Market Opportunities in India,” the roundtable gathered prominent business leaders and investors from the UAE. It aimed to foster dialogue on economic collaboration between the two nations, with discussions highlighting India’s rapid socio-economic transformation under Prime Minister Narendra Modi‘s leadership and the opportunities it offers UAE-based Indian-origin businesses and investors.

Sheikh Rashid bin Humaid Al Nuaimi underscored the significance of the partnership, stating, “The UAE and India share an enduring partnership that has grown stronger with time, built on mutual trust, respect, and shared ambitions. This roundtable serves as a platform to explore the vast potential of this relationship, particularly in sectors like technology, renewable energy, and education, where collaboration can drive meaningful change.” He also emphasized the importance of fostering innovation and strategic partnerships to achieve shared goals.

At the event, moderator Ashwin Fernandes presented Sheikh Rashid with his book, “MODIALOGUE: Conversations for a Viksit Bharat,” which explores PM Modi’s transformative governance as articulated through his Mann Ki Baat radio program. The book connects Modi’s vision to global principles of inclusivity and development.

Reflecting on the India-UAE relationship, Smriti Irani said, “India and the UAE have always shared a unique relationship rooted in history and shared values. Under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, India is a rising economic power and a beacon of innovation and progress. MODIALOGUE encapsulates this story, and events like these foster the collaboration needed to take our partnership to new heights.”

The event featured key Indian-origin UAE business leaders and investors, including Sajith Ansar (Founder and CEO of Idea Spice), Ruchi Dana (Board Member of Dana Group), Sanjay Parashar (Founder of Cocoona Clinics), Paras Shahdadpuri (Chairman of Nikai Group), Moideen Thumbay (Founder and President of Thumbay Group), Shamsheer Vayalil (Chairman of Burjeel Holdings), and Nilesh Ved (Chairman of Apparel Group).

Ashwin Fernandes further highlighted the shared vision of the two nations, saying, “India’s transformation is an inspiring narrative of progress, resilience, and inclusivity. The UAE has been a key partner in this journey, and this roundtable underscores our shared goals for a prosperous future.”

Also read: Kerala Minister Saji Cherian Under Investigation

The Ajman roundtable marks a milestone in the India-UAE partnership, exemplifying the collaboration and innovation that define the relationship between the two nations. The event’s success reinforces the importance of mutual dialogue in unlocking opportunities and building bridges between two dynamic economies.

Paan Masala Ads? No Thanks! Smriti Irani And Others’s Who Declined It

October 22, 2024, 12:51 pm

Actor Anil Kapoor has recently made headlines by turning down a lucrative advertisement deal with a paan masala brand, joining fellow actors Allu Arjun, Kartik Aaryan, and Yash in this principled stance. According to Pinkvilla, Kapoor’s decision was motivated by a sense of responsibility towards his fans, particularly in light of health concerns surrounding such products. Reports suggest that the endorsement offer was worth ₹10 crore, but Kapoor opted out, prioritizing public health over financial gain.

Industry Trends

This move follows a growing trend among celebrities who are increasingly mindful of the products they endorse. Kapoor’s decision is particularly noteworthy given that other major stars like Akshay Kumar and Shah Rukh Khan faced public criticism for their associations with paan masala brands in the past. Kumar eventually announced his disassociation from such advertisements, expressing his commitment to social responsibility.

Kartik Aaryan Takes a Stand

Kartik Aaryan has also spoken out against endorsing paan masala and similar products. In an interview with The Lallantop, Aaryan emphasized his discomfort with such endorsements, stating, “I can’t say who is right or wrong, but I try to refuse these things as long as I can.” Currently, Aaryan is busy promoting his upcoming film Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, alongside stars like Madhuri Dixit and Vidya Balan.

Allu Arjun’s Consistent Stance

Allu Arjun, known for his roles in films like Pushpa, has consistently avoided endorsing tobacco and paan masala brands. Reports indicate that he turned down a significant offer for brand placement in his movies, reiterating his personal values over financial gain.

Yash’s Thoughtful Approach

Yash, another major name in the film industry, also declined a multi-crore deal with a paan masala brand. His management agency stated that they wish to align with brands that share a conscience, reflecting Yash’s commitment to positive messaging.

Smriti Irani and Other Notable Refusals

Former Union Minister Smriti Irani has shared her experience of turning down a paan masala ad, despite the financial benefits it could have brought. Irani emphasized her responsibility as a public figure, stating, “Can you imagine someone trying to make them feel like family suddenly selling paan masala?”

A Call for Conscious Choices

This emerging trend among celebrities reflects a growing awareness of public health and the impact of their endorsements. Stars like John Abraham and Ammy Virk have also pledged never to endorse harmful products, emphasizing the importance of making responsible choices.

As more celebrities take a stand against endorsing products that may harm public health, it signals a potential shift in the entertainment industry. This movement encourages others to prioritize their influence and make conscientious decisions that resonate with their audiences.

Smriti Irani Clears The Air on Anupama Comeback: Is She Returning to TV?

October 17, 2024, 5:23 pm

Speculations have circulated regarding Smriti Irani’s potential return to the small screen with the hit show Anupama. The former actress, known for her iconic role as Tulsi Virani in Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, has put these rumors to rest by firmly denying them.

Smriti Irani Refutes Comeback Claims

In recent days, buzz surrounding Irani’s return to television gained momentum after a media portal, TellyChakkar, posted on Instagram suggesting she might have a cameo in Anupama following a generational leap in the storyline. Upon discovering the post, Irani swiftly responded in the comments section, stating, “Fake news!!!” This decisive statement put an end to the speculation surrounding her involvement in the series.

**About Anupama and Its Success**

Since its debut in 2020, Anupama has consistently dominated the TRP charts, establishing itself as a fan favorite. The show has turned its lead actors, Rupali Ganguly, Sudhanshu Panday, and Gaurav Khanna, into household names. Currently, Anupama is preparing for a 15-year generational leap, which will explore Anupama’s new journey as she seeks out her grown-up daughter, Aadhya.

Smriti Irani’s Journey in Entertainment and Politics

Smriti Irani first rose to fame with her portrayal of Tulsi in Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, which aired from 2000 to 2008 on Star Plus. The show, co-produced by Shobha Kapoor and Ektaa Kapoor, revolved around Tulsi, an ideal daughter-in-law, and was a landmark series that garnered impressive ratings for six consecutive years. This role marked a significant turning point in both Irani’s and Ektaa’s careers.

Transitioning from acting to politics, Irani joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in 2003, eventually serving as a member of the National Executive and as vice president of the Maharashtra Youth Wing. She was elected to the Rajya Sabha from Gujarat in 2011 and re-elected in 2017. Irani made headlines in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections when she contested against then-Congress President Rahul Gandhi in Amethi, though she lost that election. However, in 2019, she made a significant comeback by defeating Gandhi in the same constituency, further solidifying her political career. This year, she lost her seat to Congress leader Kishori Lal Sharma in the Amethi Lok Sabha polls.

In conclusion, while fans of Smriti Irani may have hoped for her return to the television screen, she has made it clear that such speculation is unfounded, allowing her to continue focusing on her political career.

Rahul Gandhi Defends Smriti Irani On Internet, Urges Civility in Politics

July 12, 2024, 4:16 pm

Recently, Smriti Irani faced defeat in the Lok Sabha elections in Amethi against Rahul Gandhi. His loyalist, Kishori Lal Sharma won by a significant margin of 1.5 lakh votes. This election result marked a notable moment in the political landscape of Amethi, a constituency that has been a stronghold for the Gandhi family.

On Friday, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi urged his supporters and detractors of former minister Smriti Irani to avoid using derogatory language against her. In a post on X (formerly twitter), he stated that humiliating others is a sign of weakness, not strength.

Emphasizing the importance of maintaining respect and civility in political discourse, Gandhi wrote on X (formerly twitter)“Winning and losing happen in life. I urge everyone to refrain from using derogatory language and being nasty towards Smt. Smriti Irani or any other leader for that matter. Humiliating and insulting people is a sign of weakness, not strength.”

Rahul Gandhi’s intentions with this post were unclear.

Winning and losing happen in life.

I urge everyone to refrain from using derogatory language and being nasty towards Smt. Smriti Irani or any other leader for that matter.

Humiliating and insulting people is a sign of weakness, not strength.

— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) July 12, 2024

Rahul Gandhi’s call for respectful behavior highlighted his stance on promoting a more dignified and respectful political environment, regardless of the election outcomes. Despite the clear message of respect and civility, the intentions behind his post remained somewhat ambiguous. Some interpreted it as a genuine appeal for decency in politics, while others speculated it might be a strategic move to position himself as a leader who values respectful discourse.

Ektaa Kapoor Nostalgic Over Iconic TV Show, Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi

July 3, 2024, 3:50 pm

Filmmaker Ektaa Kapoor recently took a stroll down memory lane, sharing a heartfelt throwback video from the sets of her renowned television serial, Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, which aired over two decades ago. The video, posted on Instagram this Tuesday, captures a young Ektaa Kapoor at a temple set, clad in a striking maroon, grey, and golden saree.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by EktaaRkapoor (@ektarkapoor)

The clip, dating back to 2001, commemorates the show’s first anniversary. In her post, Ektaa reminisced, “24 years ago, a show changed my life! This video is when it completed a year ago!” She expressed gratitude towards the lead cast members, including Smriti Irani, Ronit Bose Roy, and Amar Upadhyay, as well as the production team and the audience who supported the show.

Reacting to the nostalgic post, Smriti Irani commented, “History with a heart,” while Mahesh Shetty shared applause and heart emojis.

Fans flooded the comments section with love and nostalgia. One fan praised, “It was a legendary serial, changed the TV industry.” Another expressed gratitude, saying, “Thanks for making my childhood so memorable and making me realize the value of family.” Many fans yearned for more shows like Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, reminiscing about Ektaa Kapoor’s impact on Indian television.

Ektaa Kapoor continues to be a trailblazer in the entertainment industry, leaving an indelible mark with her iconic creations that resonate with audiences even today.

Smriti Irani, Anurag Thakur, Narayan Rane Excluded From Modi 3.0 Cabinet

June 9, 2024, 8:11 pm

BJP leaders and former Union Ministers Smriti Irani, Anurag Thakur, and Narayan Rane are not part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s third cabinet. Smriti Irani, who was the Women and Child Development Minister in the second term of the Modi government, lost the Lok Sabha election from Uttar Pradesh’s Amethi by over 1.6 lakh votes to Congress loyalist Kishori Lal Sharma.

She had defeated Congress’s Rahul Gandhi in his family bastion five years ago. Anurag Thakur, who held the sports information and broadcasting portfolios, won the general election from Himachal Pradesh’s Hamirpur but is not included in the Union Cabinet this time. Narayan Rane, the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises Minister in Modi 2.0, won the Lok Sabha election from Maharashtra’s Ratnagiri-Sindhudurg but has also been excluded from the new cabinet.

Some of the BJP leaders who are part of the Modi 3.0 cabinet include Amit Shah, Rajnath Singh, Nirmala Sitharaman, S Jaishankar, Nitin Gadkari, Mansukh Mandaviya, Piyush Goyal, Ashwini Vaishnaw, Dharmendra Pradhan, Bhupendra Yadav, Prahlad Joshi, Kiren Rijiju, CR Paatil, L Murugan, Hardeep Puri, ML Khattar, Shivraj Chouhan, Gajendra Shekhawat, Suresh Gopi, and Jitin Prasada. Leaders from other parties in the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) who have been included are HD Kumaraswamy, Jayant Chaudhary, Pratap Jadhav, Ram Mohan Naidu, Sudesh Mahato, and Lallan Singh.

Rajeev Chandrasekhar, who lost to Shashi Tharoor in a close contest, is also missing from the new government. However, a majority of the outgoing ministers are set to continue in the Modi 3.0 cabinet.

Mouni Roy Stands By Smriti Irani After Amethi Loss: ‘I Am Always with You’

June 6, 2024, 3:28 am

Actor turned politician Smriti Irani, following her significant loss in the Amethi Lok Sabha constituency to a Congress party candidate on Tuesday, is receiving support from her family members and close friends, including actor Mouni Roy.

After her electoral defeat, Smriti turned to her Instagram to share a post acknowledging her loss and thanking those who supported her.

“Such is life… A decade of my life going from one village to another, building lives, nurturing hope & aspirations, working on infrastructure — roads, naali, khadanja, bypass, medical college and more,” Smriti wrote.

She continued, “To those who stood by me through loss and victory, I am forever grateful. To those celebrating today, congratulations. And to those asking, ‘How’s the josh?’ I say- it’s still high, Sir.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Smriti Irani (@smritiiraniofficial)

Her friends and supporters expressed their solidarity for her in the comments section, with one notable comment coming from her friend and co-star from “Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi,” Mouni. “Always with you,” Mouni wrote with a red heart emoji.

“Keep working hard thats it,” commented actor Neena Gupta.

Actor Sonu Sood also showed his support by leaving a red heart emoji in the comment section.

Actor Aashka Goradia also supported Smriti, writing, “With you EVERYDAY! Nothing has and nothing will ever stop you from the good that you do! Full Power”.

Smriti loses Amethi

Union Minister and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate from Uttar Pradesh’s Amethi, Smriti Irani, lost the seat to Congress leader Kishori Lal Sharma.

Kishori secured a significant victory by defeating Irani by over 1.67 lakh votes in Amethi, which is considered a stronghold of the Nehru-Gandhi family in Uttar Pradesh. According to the Election Commission, Irani received 3,72,032 votes, while Sharma garnered 5,39,228 votes. The BSP candidate received 34,534 votes.

In 2019, Smriti gained prominence and was dubbed a ‘giant killer’ when she defeated senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi by a margin of 55,120 votes in the Lok Sabha elections. She secured 4,68,514 votes against Rahul Gandhi’s 4,13,394 votes. Gandhi had previously won the seat in the 2004, 2009, and 2014 Lok Sabha elections.

“This Is The Victory Of The Public,” Says KL Sharma After Defeating Smriti Irani

June 5, 2024, 3:20 pm

Kishori Lal Sharma, the Congress’ newly elected Member of Parliament from a high profile seat of Amethi regarded his victory as the public’s victory.

Speaking with ANI, the newly elected MP said, “I have won this seat and this is the victory of the public.”

Responding to Smriti Irani’s remarks that ‘Josh is still high’, Sharma said, “Winning and losing always goes on as if we are contesting elections on the same seat, one has to win while the other will face defeat. If someone says that their enthusiasm is still high, even after the defeat, it is a good thing.”

He further said, “People have voted on the issues of unemployment, farmers’ income, inflation, etc. They have chosen me as their MP, I will work towards their welfare.”
On Wednesday morning, while returning to Amethi, Sharma conveyed, “I came here to submit Rahul Gandhi’s winning certificate and I had to take blessings of Sonia Gandhi Ji.
He added further, “Senior leaders of the party asked me to stay humble, just as I am. They guided me to be respectful towards everyone. Just because I have become MP, I should not be egoist about it.

“Asserting that he would work for everyone, irrespective of whether people voted for him or not, Sharma said, “I am everyone’s MP and I will work for everyone. When one wins, then responsibilities also fall on one’s shoulders. And I will fulfill that responsibility. When I will work together with the people, I will be successful. I will listen to what they want and I will never make any plans without involving the people of Amethi.”

KL Sharma’s victory over Smriti Irani by a substantial margin of 1,67,196 votes is noteworthy. Sharma garnered 5,39,228 votes while Irani secured 3,72,032 votes.

In the aftermath of the 18th Lok Sabha election, the BJP-led NDA clinched 294 seats, while the INDIA bloc secured 234 seats in the 543-member Parliament. To form a government, a party or coalition must attain a simple majority of 272 seats.

As per the Election Commission of India’s report, the BJP won 240 seats, significantly lower than its 2019 tally of 303 seats. Conversely, the Congress experienced a notable resurgence, securing victory in 99 seats.

While Prime Minister Narendra Modi secured a third term, the BJP is now reliant on the support of other parties within his coalition, such as JD(U) chief Nitish Kumar and TDP’s chief Chandrababu Naidu, as it falls short of the 272 majority mark by 32 seats.

This marks the first instance since the Bharatiya Janata Party’s ascendancy to power in 2014 that it failed to secure a majority on its own, attaining far fewer seats than the record-breaking 303 it achieved in the 2019 election.

Smriti Irani Thanks Supporters, Pledges Service After Amethi Defeat

June 4, 2024, 6:50 pm

In a closely watched battle for the Amethi constituency, Kishori Lal emerged victorious in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, securing 524,892 votes and defeating BJP’s high-profile candidate, Smriti Irani, by a substantial margin of 161,266 votes. This outcome signifies a dramatic shift in a region historically known as a stronghold of the Indian National Congress, signaling a significant change in the political landscape.

Smriti Irani, the incumbent Union Minister, graciously accepted the results and expressed her gratitude to the BJP party workers and supporters. “I express my gratitude to all the BJP party workers and supporters, those who have worked in the service of the constituency and the party with utmost dedication and fidelity,” said Irani. She also extended her thanks to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, highlighting the accomplishments of their administrations. “Today, I am grateful to PM Narendra Modi and CM Yogi Adityanath that their governments have completed the pending works of 30 years in just 5 years. I congratulate those who win. I will continue to be in the service of the people of Amethi,” Irani added.

Watch:-

#WATCH | Union Minister and BJP’s candidate from Uttar Pradesh’s Amethi Lok Sabha seat, Smriti Irani says, “…I express my gratitude to all the BJP party workers and supporters, those who have worked in the service of the constituency and the party with utmost dedication and… pic.twitter.com/0ypSBBzAh4

— ANI (@ANI) June 4, 2024

Irani’s defeat marks a notable moment in Amethi’s political history. Known for ending Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s long-standing dominance in the constituency with her victory in 2019, Irani’s tenure saw significant developmental projects aimed at improving infrastructure, healthcare, and education. Despite her efforts, the electorate favored Kishori Lal in this election, reflecting changing voter sentiments and dynamics.

Kishori Lal’s victory not only reshapes the political scenario in Amethi but also sets the stage for the future direction of the constituency. As the political landscape continues to evolve, the results from Amethi are a reminder of the ever-changing nature of Indian democracy and the importance of addressing local issues and concerns.

Lok Sabha Election Results 2024: Smriti Irani trails in UP’s Amethi against Congress’ Kishori Lal

June 4, 2024, 5:44 pm

Union Minister Smriti Irani, who unseated Congress’s Rahul Gandhi from his family bastion Amethi, is trailing in the massive prestige battle raging there this year. Congress candidate Kishori Lal Sharma is leading by a margin of 1,43,960 votes in the Lok Sabha election as of 4:36 pm, as reported by Hindustan Times. Irani had won the seat in 2019, securing 49.71% of the votes while Gandhi, her opponent, managed to get 43.86% votes.

Notably, this year, the Gandhi scion left Amethi to Sharma and chose to take up his mother Sonia Gandhi’s mantle in Raebareli, where he is leading by over 60,000 votes. Speaking to NDTV, Irani had claimed that Gandhi, who had represented Amethi for three consecutive terms from 2004 to 2019, opted not to contest the seat because it would have been challenging.

Election 2024: Kishori Lal Takes Lead Over Smriti Irani By 78,863 Votes In Amethi

June 4, 2024, 11:42 am

In the Amethi constituency for the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections, Congress candidate Kishori Lal has taken a significant lead over the incumbent Smriti Irani, currently trailing by a margin of 78,863 votes.

As the vote counting progresses, the tight race between Smriti Irani and Kishori Lal reflects the democratic vibrancy of Amethi constituency. The narrowing gap between the two candidates signifies the intensity of political competition and the significance of every vote cast. With the outcome still uncertain, Amethi remains a focal point of attention in the Lok Sabha Elections, capturing the nation’s interest as it awaits the final verdict of the electorate in this crucial electoral battle.

Exit Poll: Tight Contest Between Smriti Irani and KL Sharma in Amethi; Rahul Gandhi in Wayanad

June 3, 2024, 11:33 am

Union minister Smriti Irani and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi are anticipated to secure their respective Amethi and Wayanad Lok Sabha seats, as per the Today-Axis My India exit polls. However, the race in Amethi is expected to be tight as Smriti Irani contends against Congress candidate KL Sharma, according to the exit poll. The counting of votes for the Lok Sabha polls 2024 is scheduled for Tuesday, June 4.

In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, Smriti Irani clinched a significant victory in Amethi, a constituency long considered a bastion of the Gandhi family. She defeated Rahul Gandhi, who had held the seat for 15 years, by a margin of 55,120 votes. In their initial electoral face-off in 2014, Rahul Gandhi emerged victorious against the Bharatiya Janata Party leader.

In Wayanad, Rahul Gandhi is positioned strongly to secure another term in the Lok Sabha elections, as predicted by the India Today-Axis My India exit poll. The poll suggests Rahul Gandhi holds an advantage over BJP candidate and state party chief K Surendran, with veteran CPI leader Annie Raja also in the running.

This forecast is based on extensive data from 5.8 lakh interviews conducted across all 543 parliamentary constituencies, as reported by India Today.

While Rahul Gandhi also contested from the Rae Bareli Lok Sabha seat, the Congress nominated KL Sharma, a close aide of the Gandhi family, to contest from Amethi against Smriti Irani.

During the election campaigns, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra actively countered Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s attacks on the Congress, particularly in Amethi and Rae Bareli. She campaigned across 16 states and one Union territory, addressing large gatherings of workers in Amethi and Rae Bareli.

The Amethi constituency comprises five assembly segments and is a general seat. Voting for the Amethi seat took place in the sixth phase of the Lok Sabha elections 2024 on May 20.

During his campaign, Rahul Gandhi pledged equal development for Amethi and Rae Bareli if the Congress came to power at the Centre. He contested the Lok Sabha polls from Rae Bareli, replacing his mother Sonia Gandhi.

Smriti Irani Attacks AAP Over These Delhi HC’s Findings On Manish Sisodia

May 23, 2024, 4:44 pm

Union minister and Amethi’s BJP candidate has attacked AAP over the Delhi high court’s findings regarding corruption allegations against Delhi’s Deputy CM Manish Sisodia.

Earlier, while dismissing Manish Sisodia’s bail plea in the liquor policy case, the court declared, that the prosecution has made out a “prima facie case” of money laundering against former deputy CM.

Meanwhile, while addressing the press conference, Irani had put forth the court observations saying

“A judgment yesterday regarding Manish Sisodia became public. The Delhi High Court prima facie finds a case of corruption against Manish Sisodia. The court accepts that corruption to the tune of Rs. 100 crores have been committed by Manish Sisodia and all accused in this case.”

She also disclosed, that court acknowledged Sisodia’s attempts in tampering the evidence and intimidate potential witnesses, who were testifying against AAP.

Later, she appealed to citizens, to look up Delhi HC’s observations on Manish Sisodia’s corruption.

“My appeal to citizens is to read these substantial observations about the corruption of Manish Sisodia and the AAP. These so-called political activists entered the corridors of power with a promise of change but ended up becoming nothing but looters of the people’s treasury.” said Smriti Irani at press conference.

Smriti Irani On Swati Maliwal Matter

Addressing the matter of Swati Maliwal, Irani remarked, that a fact, Arvind Kejriwal campaigns with the assaulter is a proof, of where his loyalties lie.

In addition, she also questioned, that how Arvind Kejriwal can be expected to do justice to anybody? Also remarked, women workers of AAP aren’t safe in CM’s house.

“With the assaulter in the company of Arvind Kejriwal, can you honestly expect him to do justice to anybody? The question is, while a lady was being assaulted in his house, who was present? What was done by Arvind Kejriwal?… AAP is not only corrupt, but its women workers are not safe in their own CM’s house. said Smriti Irani.

Priyanka at helm of Congress campaign in Rae Bareli, Amethi

May 7, 2024, 3:13 am

Rae Bareli and Amethi seats are two of the most significant seats for the Congress. The party is doing meticulous planning to turn the table ahead of the Lok Sabha elections in both these constituencies. Congress General Secretary, Priyanka Gandhi shall be the main strategist. Yet, party’s veteran leaders have been called to take forward the party’s campaign.

After Rahul Gandhi’s decision not to contest the elections from Amethi, numerous questions have surfaced. Party leaders are rallying behind him, asserting that the outcomes will provide clarity on the correctness of the decision. The argument posits that Congress candidate Kishori Lal Sharma has been deeply involved in the area for four decades, with intimate knowledge of every household. However, the verdict will be revealed on 4 June.

Former Rajasthan Chief Minister Gehlot has been specifically allotted the task of overseeing Amethi, where Priyanka will dedicate the majority of her time. Additionally, former Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Baghel will be responsible for Rae Bareli. Both leaders bring considerable experience in Uttar Pradesh, with Baghel previously serving as an observer during assembly elections.

Gehlot, in his capacity as party general secretary, previously contested elections independently in Uttar Pradesh in 2007, rejuvenating party workers through his efforts.

Furthermore, he has previously led investigation committees.

In the past, all the strategy and planning of Congress has fallen flat and gone erroneous. Due to coalition politics, Congress was completely destroyed. In 2019, Congress even lost the election of Amethi. The only seat won was Rae Bareli, by Sonia Gandhi. In the 2022 assembly elections, Priyanka Gandhi did her own kind of politics. Tried many experiments. Gave tickets to 40 percent women. Took the responsibility of the elections herself, but the results were such that the vote percentage came down to three percent.

In Uttar Pradesh, Congress seems to have hit the bottom. For the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, the party is once again focusing its efforts on Rae Bareli and Amethi. Winning both these seats would significantly boost the morale of party workers in Uttar Pradesh. It appears that Priyanka Gandhi has taken the responsibility for securing victory in both constituencies.

Considering their experience, Priyanka has enlisted the support of Gehlot and Baghel. Gehlot, renowned as a political strategist, holds considerable sway within the organization. Meanwhile, Baghel has matured into a seasoned politician. This election holds significant importance for both leaders, as a victory would elevate the party’s stature.

Priyanka Gandhi has intensified her efforts by personally visiting Amethi and engaging in extensive meetings with officials and workers, initiating an assertive strategy. Party stalwarts are expected to join the campaign soon.

However, the contest in Rae Bareli is anticipated to be challenging, with BJP candidate DP Singh maintaining a strong presence over the past decade.

In the previous election, Singh significantly narrowed Sonia Gandhi’s victory margin. Despite the setback, the BJP has kept him active in the region. Consequently, the challenge for Rahul Gandhi may not be straightforward. Although Sonia Gandhi’s presence in campaigning could garner sympathy for Rahul, Amethi presents an intriguing contest.

Priyanka and Gehlot’s strategy will be closely monitored, particularly as BJP candidate Smriti Irani has solidified her foothold in the constituency over the last decade.

Lok Sabha Election 2024: Rahul Gandhi files nomination from Rae Bareli, Who Said What?

May 3, 2024, 10:25 pm

Rahul Gandhi’s decision to contest from Rae Bareli instead of Amethi has ignited controversy and drawn sharp remarks from various political quarters. Here’s a breakdown of the key developments and reactions surrounding this significant shift:

Rahul Gandhi, the former Congress chief, filed his nomination from Uttar Pradesh’s Rae Bareli constituency, a seat traditionally held by his mother Sonia Gandhi. This move marks a departure from his long-standing association with the Amethi constituency.

Prime Minister Modi’s Comment

Prime Minister Narendra Modi took a dig at Gandhi’s decision, accusing him of fear and flight from Wayanad. Modi’s remarks mocked Gandhi’s strategic shift and drew attention to the political implications of such a move.

“I had already told you that the prince is looking for another seat for himself due to fear of defeat in Wayanad. Now he had to run away from Amethi and choose the Rae Bareli seat,” said PM Modi.

He added, “These people go around and tell everyone – Daro Mat! Don’t be afraid! I would say the same thing to them – Daro mat! Bhago mat! don’t be afraid! Do not run!” drawing loud cheers from the audience with his sarcastic remark aimed at the Congress leader.

Congress’s Defense

On the other hand, the Congress party defended Gandhi’s decision as a strategic maneuver. Congress leader Jairam Ramesh highlighted the party’s careful deliberation and emphasized the legacy and responsibility associated with Rae Bareli.

“Many people have many opinions on the news of Rahul Gandhi contesting elections from Rae Bareli. But he is a seasoned player of politics and chess. He makes his moves after careful consideration,” said Jairam Ramesh.

BJP’s Criticism

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Minister of Defence Rajnath Singh, criticized Gandhi’s move. Shah characterized it as a sign of the Congress party accepting defeat, while Singh mocked Gandhi’s decision as an act of evasion from the battlefield.

“Modi ji made one attempt, and Chandrayaan (mission to the Moon) was launched successfully. Sonia Gandhi has attempted to launch this ‘yaan’ called Rahul Baba (Rahul Gandhi) twenty times, but her attempts have not been successful,” said Amit Shah regarding Rahul Gandhi’s candidacy in Rae Bareli.

Smriti Irani’s Swipe

Smriti Irani, who defeated Rahul Gandhi in Amethi previously, questioned Gandhi’s belongingness to Rae Bareli and speculated on his shifting political narratives across different constituencies.

“The one who was rejected by Amethi and fled to Wayanad will never truly belong to Rae Bareli,” remarked Smriti Irani.

The absence of the Gandhi family in Amethi during this election cycle has been seen as a symbolic acknowledgment of Congress’s acknowledgment of defeat in the region.

“The absence of the Gandhi family from the election fray in Amethi indicates that the Congress party has acknowledged its defeat in Amethi even before the polling on the seat,” said Smriti Irani.

Rahul Gandhi’s strategic shift in candidacy has sparked a significant political debate, reflecting the intense dynamics and strategies at play in the ongoing electoral landscape.

The developments surrounding this move are likely to continue shaping political narratives and discussions as the election season progresses.

Gandhi Family Absent in Amethi Elections After 25 Years, Smriti Irani Reacts

May 3, 2024, 2:12 pm

After a gap of 25 years, the Lok Sabha elections in Amethi will occur without a candidate from the influential Gandhi family. The Congress party has nominated Kishori Lal Sharma from the constituency, which has historically been a stronghold for the party. Rahul Gandhi, who won three times from Amethi before losing to BJP’s Smriti Irani, will now contest from Rae Bareli.

In response to this development, Smriti Irani, who famously defeated Rahul Gandhi in Amethi, remarked that the Congress party has conceded its defeat in the region. She said, “No member of the Gandhi family contesting from Amethi in itself is an indication that Congress has accepted its defeat from Amethi even before the elections.”

Amethi has long been a bastion for the Congress party since its formation in 1967. Rahul Gandhi represented the constituency from 2004 to 2019, following in the footsteps of his mother Sonia Gandhi.

The last time a non-Gandhi contested from Amethi was in 1998 when Satish Sharma, a close associate of the Gandhi family, ran for the seat but lost to the BJP’s Sanjaya Sinh. Sonia Gandhi then contested and won from Amethi in 1999, securing a significant victory margin.

In 2004, Sonia Gandhi shifted to Rae Bareli, allowing Rahul Gandhi to take over Amethi.

Amethi’s political history includes Congress’s Vidya Dhar Bajpai as its first MP. In 1977, the Janata Party’s Ravindra Pratap Singh won the seat, but Sanjay Gandhi reclaimed it in the next election. After Sanjay Gandhi’s death, Rajiv Gandhi won the by-elections and remained the MP until his assassination in 1991.

Satish Sharma won the seat twice after Rajiv Gandhi’s death, in 1991 and 1996. In 2014, Rahul Gandhi defeated Smriti Irani by a significant margin. However, in 2019, Smriti Irani emerged victorious against Rahul Gandhi with a substantial margin of 55,000 votes.

In Rae Bareli, Rahul Gandhi will face BJP’s Dinesh Pratap Singh, who lost to Sonia Gandhi in the 2019 elections.

Voting in Amethi and Rae Bareli is scheduled for May 20.

Congress Likely To Announce Rahul And Priyanka’s Candidature

May 2, 2024, 8:44 am

The Congress’s candidates for the Amethi and Raebareli constituencies in Uttar Pradesh, which have long been seen as Nehru-Gandhi family strongholds, remain unclear as the deadline for Phase 5 nominations in the Lok Sabha elections draws near.

Rahul Gandhi, who is now running for Congress from Wayanad in Kerala, is reportedly planning to run from Amethi as well, a seat he lost to Union Minister Smriti Irani in 2019. Thursday is anticipated to be his official announcement, and nominations are due on Friday.

Amidst discussions among Congress leaders and its allies in the INDIA bloc, it’s proposed that Rahul contest Amethi while Priyanka Gandhi Vadra be nominated from Raebareli. The Samajwadi Party (SP), in talks with Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, sees potential electoral gains with both Rahul and Priyanka entering the fray.

Kharge has reportedly expressed favor for Rahul and Priyanka’s candidature from Amethi and Raebareli, respectively, although both siblings seem hesitant. Nevertheless, Kharge insists at least one of them should contest.

In a recent party meeting, the Congress’ UP unit formally proposed members of the Gandhi family as candidates for Amethi and Raebareli, deferring the final decision to Kharge.

Despite expectations and preparations, the Congress is yet to issue an official statement regarding its nominees for these constituencies, once considered its bastions.

Jairam Ramesh, senior Congress leader, stated that the Central Election Committee (CEC) has entrusted Mallikarjun Kharge with the final decision on Amethi and Raebareli candidates, expecting an announcement within the next 24 to 30 hours.

In the ongoing seat-sharing deal with the SP, the Congress is contesting 17 Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh, having finalized candidates for all but Amethi and Raebareli.

The fifth phase of polling in Amethi is scheduled for May 20, with the nomination deadline set for May 3.

Rahul’s loss in Amethi, once a Congress stronghold, in 2019 to Irani was considered a significant setback. Previously, Rahul, his father Rajiv Gandhi, and Sonia Gandhi had represented Amethi in the Lok Sabha. Currently, Rahul represents Wayanad, while Irani seeks re-election from Amethi.

Gandhi Family Set to Contest Amethi, Asserts Congress Leader Deepak Singh

April 30, 2024, 9:43 pm

Congress politician Deepak Singh affirmed that the “Gandhi family will definitely contest” from this constituency due to the deep-rooted connection between the people of Amethi and Rahul Gandhi, amidst speculations regarding his candidacy on Tuesday.

Speaking to ANI, Deepak Singh stated, “Rahul Gandhi has an emotional attachment with Amethi. Amethi has strong relations with the Gandhi family. Definitely Gandhi family will fight from here. This is what we feel…BJP is worried, we all have faith that Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi will come and defeat the BJP.”

During the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi lost to Smriti Irani in Amethi. The Bharatiya Janata Party has nominated Irani once again for the seat.
Sources suggest that Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra are expected to contest the Lok Sabha seats from Amethi and Rae Bareli, respectively.

In the crucial state of Uttar Pradesh, the Samajwadi Party will vie for 63 seats, while the Congress will contest 17 seats, as per the seat-sharing agreement between the two parties.
Earlier, on Wednesday in the Gauriganj area of Amethi, posters featuring Robert Vadra, the husband of Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, surfaced outside the party’s headquarters. This led to speculation about Vadra potentially receiving a ticket.

However, the Congress is known for fiercely contesting every seat it vies for, which is why it has decided to nominate the Gandhi siblings.
On May 20, the Lok Sabha seats of Amethi and Rae Bareli will go to the polls during the fifth phase of voting.

Smriti Irani Holds Roadshow in Amethi Before Filing Nomination Papers

April 29, 2024, 12:49 pm

Union Minister and BJP candidate from Amethi, Smriti Irani, conducted a roadshow on Monday before filing her nomination papers, accompanied by Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav. The event drew a large crowd, with people lining the streets, showering flowers, and giving a warm welcome to the dignitaries. Smriti Irani started the day with a puja at her residence before engaging with the people of Amethi. As part of her campaign, she rode a scooter through various localities, interacting with residents and seeking their support ahead of Amethi’s voting in the fifth phase of the Lok Sabha elections on May 20.

The Congress party is expected to release its next list of Lok Sabha candidates, including for Uttar Pradesh’s pending seats, within two days. The party recently held a Central Election Committee (CEC) meeting to discuss candidates for key seats in Uttar Pradesh, such as Raebareli and Amethi. Amethi gained attention in the 2019 elections when Rahul Gandhi, who had represented the constituency for 15 years, lost to BJP’s Smriti Irani. Smriti Irani secured victory with 468,514 votes, while Rahul Gandhi received 413,394 votes.

Uttar Pradesh, known for sending the maximum number of MPs (80) to Parliament, is conducting elections in all seven phases. The state has completed voting for phases one and two on April 13 and April 26 respectively. The upcoming phases are scheduled for May 7, May 13, May 20, May 23, and June 1. Vote counting will take place on June 4.

‘Hugging in Delhi, begging in Kerala, thugging in Karnataka…’ Smriti Irani takes a dig at Rahul Gandhi

April 6, 2024, 2:31 pm

Union Minister and Bharatiya Janata Party MP Smriti Irani criticized the Congress’s stance in Kerala, particularly targeting senior party figure Rahul Gandhi, who is running for election from the Wayanad constituency. Irani took aim at the Congress for facing competition from its ally, the Communist Party of India (CPI), in Kerala, where the CPI has put forward its prominent candidate against Rahul Gandhi.

Annie Raja, the general secretary of the Communist Party, was nominated to contest from the Wayanad constituency in Kerala against Rahul Gandhi. In response, the BJP nominated its Kerala chief, K Surendran, for the Wayanad seat, setting the stage for a three-way contest.

Irani, speaking at a rally in Karnataka, sarcastically remarked on the Congress’s predicament, stating, “The condition of the Opposition is such that they are contesting in Wayanad. Left parties suggest Rahul Gandhi contest from Uttar Pradesh, yet when they meet in Delhi for an INDIA Alliance gathering, they embrace Rahul Gandhi.”

She further commented, “Yesterday, I mentioned in Kerala, ‘Hugging in Delhi, begging in Kerala.’ The situation reflects the turmoil the Congress is facing: ‘Hugging in Delhi, begging in Kerala, thugging in Karnataka…'”

#WATCH | Bengaluru, Karnataka: During her interaction with businessmen, Union Minister Smriti Irani says, "The condition of the Opposition is that they are fighting in Wayanad. Left parties are saying that why does Rahul Gandhi not go to Uttar Pradesh and contest. But when the… pic.twitter.com/iy1tXVJJaf

— ANI (@ANI) April 6, 2024

Annie Raja filed her nomination for the Lok Sabha elections from Wayanad on Wednesday. While the CPI is part of the ruling Left Democratic Front in Kerala, it competes fiercely with the Congress in the state, despite being allies in the opposition INDIA bloc.

Meanwhile, uncertainty looms over the Amethi constituency in Uttar Pradesh. Smriti Irani’s criticism of Rahul Gandhi comes amidst the Congress’s delay in finalizing its candidate for the Amethi seat, historically a stronghold for the party.

In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, Smriti Irani defeated Rahul Gandhi by a significant margin to claim victory in Amethi. While Rahul Gandhi has announced his candidacy from Wayanad, it remains unclear if he will challenge Irani in the upcoming election.

Businessman Robert Vadra, the husband of Priyanka Gandhi, hinted at a potential entry into politics earlier this week, suggesting he might represent the Congress from the Amethi constituency. Vadra stated that the people of Amethi desire a Gandhi family member to represent them in Parliament and expressed openness to fulfilling that expectation.

Robert Vadra expresses his interest to contest in Lok Sabha Election from Amethi

April 4, 2024, 6:13 pm

Robert Vadra, the spouse of Congress general secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and an entrepreneur, has indicated his interest in entering politics, citing widespread encouragement from people across the nation to contest the Lok Sabha election from Amethi. In an interview with IndiaTV, he mentioned the pressure to join politics, particularly due to his association with the Gandhi family, stating that it’s challenging to stay away from the political arena.

Vadra expressed his readiness to challenge any political leader, including the current MP Smriti Irani, from the Amethi constituency in Uttar Pradesh. He emphasized that regardless of the party he aligns with, there is a strong desire among the public to see him in politics. “The people of Amethi expect me to represent their constituency if I decide to become an MP … For years, the Gandhi family worked hard in Rae Bareli, Amethi and Sultanpur. The people of Amethi are really troubled by the current MP, they think they have made a mistake by electing her instead of Rahul Gandhi,” he said.

He criticized Irani for her alleged lack of focus on constituency development and accused her of engaging in divisive politics. Vadra’s remarks coincide with the circulation of his posters on social media, indicating growing public support for his potential political involvement. He believes that the prevailing public sentiment favors his entry into politics as the right person to challenge the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

India establishes global alliance to promote women empowerment

January 19, 2024, 10:02 am

In a significant development, India has successfully established the “Global Alliance for Global Good- Gender Equity and Equality” to advocate for women’s empowerment and gender equality at the 54th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum in Davos on Thursday.

The announcement took place in the presence of Professor Klaus Schwab, Founder and Executive Chairman of the World Economic Forum, along with India’s Union Ministers Smriti Irani and Hardeep Puri, who were attending a dinner hosted by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) with notable Indian businessmen.

The alliance aims to consolidate global best practices, promote knowledge sharing, and encourage investments in the areas of women’s education, health, and enterprise. Notable global corporate entities such as MasterCard and Microsoft, along with numerous domestic industry leaders, have expressed their support for this initiative.

Professor Klaus Schwab commended India’s active participation at Davos 2024 and acknowledged the country’s success in achieving an annual growth rate of seven percent. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a focus on equality and inclusion amidst India’s significant economic growth.

Union Minister Smriti Irani expressed gratitude to the World Economic Forum for its robust support to the Indian industry. She highlighted the collaborative effort to establish the grand alliance, asserting India’s commitment to gender justice despite skeptics. Irani credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for consistent economic growth, inflation control, and successful pandemic management, underscoring India’s achievements in providing food security and vaccine doses.

Irani emphasized that the alliance is dedicated to propelling India towards a greater future, leaving no one behind. In an interview with ANI, she reiterated Prime Minister Modi’s focus on empowering talented women during his tenure. The alliance, she explained, aligns with PM Modi’s inclusive growth agenda, inviting investments from those inspired by it.

The minister also highlighted the significant interest from over ten thousand companies, showcasing the global appeal of India’s growth agenda. She underscored India’s achievements in attracting investments in digital infrastructure, biofuels, and the world’s largest hydrogen project.

In summary, India’s establishment of the Global Alliance for Global Good- Gender Equity and Equality has garnered support on a global scale, reflecting the nation’s commitment to advancing women’s empowerment and gender equality.

Smriti Irani highlights importance of normalizing conversation about women’s health

January 18, 2024, 1:31 pm

Smriti Irani, the Union’s Minister of Women and Child Development, emphasized on Wednesday the significance of normalizing discussions about women’s health. One of the biggest issues, according to her, is that women’s healthcare systems and conversations have never been mainstreamed.

Speaking at a session linked to the Women’s Health Programme at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Smriti Irani said, “I think women’s healthcare systems or conversations never were mainstreamed and that has been one of the greatest challenges. How do you provide the solution to an issue that has never been spoken of? Mostly, there is a presumption that women do not want the psychological burden of their medical challenge to fall upon their family unit or hinder the economic progression of their contribution. And that is why they tend to either self-medicate or not medicate at all.”
She also spoke about the initiatives taken for women’s development after Prime Minister Narendra Modi took office in 2014. She said that 110 million toilets have been built in India under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

“From the Indian experience, let me provide you a big context,” Smriti Irani said, discussing the steps taken for women’s development after 2014. Following the election of Prime Minister Modi in 2010–11, a World Bank report stated that inadequate sanitary facilities for women would have a negative six percent impact on India’s GDP. That being said, if women choose to urinate in public right now, they run the risk of having their security violated.”