Smriti Irani had made a much-publicised exit from Star Plus' hit show, Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi. But less than a year later, she's back on the show!

Smriti tells Rajul Hegde about her return, and her friendship with producer Ekta Kapoor.

• Also Read: Ekta Kapoor, on why she got Smriti back

What was your first reaction when you were asked to come back to Kyunki?

Ekta and I have had a long association. Both of us made it big after Kunyki. When we met at the Balaji Global Indian Television Awards function, the media started speculating that I would return to Balaji. After that, everyone started asking us when we would work together. Even Anupama Mandloi (Star Plus' senior creative director) was keen on me coming back to the show. I have always said in my interviews that whenever Balaji and Star need me, I am there for them. So, I am back.

Was it difficult to come back on this show?

I am lucky to be part of a Kyunki.Not every actor gets a chance to be part of a successful television show. Ekta created the hit character Tulsi, and I have worked hard to portray it. I am grateful to Ekta, who gave me a chance in her show, when nobody wanted to cast me.

What was the problem between the two of you?

Chodo kal ki bathe, kal ki bath puranee.

Ekta told me yesterday that the press will not be satisfied with this answer. Tulsi ki andaaz main kahu tho Thakkurji nay lika bhagaya tha hum duno nay jiya (If I would say it like Tulsi, then Thakkurji has written the future and both of us are living it). I'm glad that we have got another chance to work together on Kyunki, a show closest to our hearts. 

Did you feel jealous when Gautami Kapoor took over your role in Kyunki?

Have you watched the show after you left?

No. I am so busy with my family and my serials I don't get time to watch other serials.