Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bani Mantri: Has Smriti Irani come a long way?

Known for her diverse roles as a former McDonald’s burger flipper, Miss India contestant, model, and iconic character ‘Tulsi’ from ‘Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi,’  Smriti Irani stands out for two remarkable deviations from the norm.

At a recent event in Mumbai, Smriti Irani addressed gender bias and the undervaluation of homemakers while recounting her challenges in the media industry and her ‘leap forward’ into politics. Her victory over Rahul Gandhi in Amethi in 2019 symbolized resilience and strength, despite major and minor speedbumps. Irani remained unfazed, attributing criticism to her groundbreaking victories over major political stalwarts….

Ohhh whooooo is she?

Smriti Irani began her career as a model and reached the finals of the Miss India beauty pageant in 1998. Her big break came with the role of Tulsi Virani in Ekta Kapoor’s hit TV series “Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi.” Irani also appeared in other shows like “Kya Hadsaa Kya Haqeeqat” and “Ek Thi Naayka,” but it was her portrayal of Tulsi Virani that truly catapulted her to fame.

From television to…politics?

After a flourishing television career, Smriti Irani ventured into active politics in 2003 by joining the BJP. In 2004, she assumed the role of Vice President of the Maharashtra Youth Wing within the party’s ranks. 

Despite contesting the 2004 general election from Delhi’s Chandni Chowk constituency, she faced defeat against Congress’ Kapil Sibal. Recognized for her leadership, Irani was appointed as the National President of the BJP Mahila Morcha in 2010.  Her political journey further advanced when she was elected to the Upper House of Parliament from the Gujarat constituency in 2011.

The 2014 Lok Sabha defeat

In 2014, Smriti Irani contested the Lok Sabha seat from Uttar Pradesh’s Amethi against Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, shaking up the stronghold of the Gandhi-Nehru family. Despite facing an uphill battle, she significantly narrowed Rahul Gandhi’s winning margin to just over 1 lakh votes. Following this electoral contest, she was appointed as the Minister of Human Resource Development in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s initial cabinet, despite her defeat.

In August 2017, Irani was re-elected to the Rajya Sabha from Gujarat, further solidifying her political standing. At the age of 38, she also became the youngest minister in PM Modi’s cabinet. Over the period from 2014 to 2019, Irani held key portfolios including Human Resource Development, Textiles, and Information & Broadcasting, showcasing her versatility and dedication in various ministerial roles.

A clean sweep victory at the 2019 General Elections

In the 2019 General Elections, Smriti Irani clinched victory in the Lok Sabha from the Amethi constituency in Uttar Pradesh, triumphing over Rahul Gandhi. Despite the support garnered by Rahul Gandhi from the Samajwadi Party and Bahujan Samaj Party alliance, Irani secured a decisive win with a margin exceeding 50,000 votes. Her electoral success propelled her into the role of Union Minister for Women and Child Development. Additionally, since July 2022, she has also assumed the responsibilities of the Minority Affairs portfolio, showcasing her multifaceted contributions to governance.

Irani has held several portfolios, but her achievements speak volumes

Irani is currently serving as the Union Minister for Women & Child Development and Minister for Minority Affairs.  

Smriti’s career spans across diverse spheres; As India’s youngest Union Cabinet Minister, she has broken barriers, serving as the Minister for Education and Minister of Textiles, a pioneering feat for women in Indian politics.

In her tenure as Education Minister, Irani spearheaded transformative initiatives, notably conceptualizing the New Education Policy and launching groundbreaking projects like SWAYAM and the National Digital Library. Her vision for research and innovation culminated in the IMPRINT program, empowering students and academia alike.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Irani’s leadership as Textiles Minister shone through as she catalyzed India’s emergence as a global PPE producer.

Transitioning to the role of Minister for Women & Child Development, Irani intensified efforts to enhance protection services for women and children, championing legislative reforms such as criminalizing child pornography through the POCSO Amendment Act.

Beyond her ministerial roles, Irani’s advocacy extends globally, exemplified by her election to the Inter-Parliamentary Union and recognition as a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum. Her dedication to social causes is evident in initiatives like ‘Saksham’ and her support for women’s rights in the Indian Army.

Before her political career, Irani’s extensive experience in the media industry showcased her versatility and talent. Her journey reflects resilience, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, making her an inspirational figure in Indian politics and society.

2024 Lok Sabha elections:

As the first list of 195 candidates was released by BJP, we see Irani fielded from UP’s iconic constituency- Amethi. However, what makes this constituency so iconic? 

Amethi- ek khel:

Smriti Irani’s nomination from Amethi by the Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) marks a significant moment, following her victory over sitting MP and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi by approximately 55,000 votes in the 2019 Lok Sabha polls. 

Her triumph in Amethi, traditionally considered a stronghold of the Nehru-Gandhi family, marked a remarkable turnaround from her previous defeat against Gandhi in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, where she lost by over one lakh votes. Irani’s re-nomination underscores her enduring commitment to serving the people of Amethi and her unwavering dedication to the constituents, reflecting her resilience and determination in the realm of Indian politics.

Irani vs Gandhi- badle ki aag?

Irani and Rahul Gandhi revisited the constituency ahead of the impending Lok Sabha elections. While the BJP leader conducted a Jan Samwad in her area, the Congress leader embarked on his Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra.

In a recent development, Irani, aged 47, issued a challenge to Rahul Gandhi to contest exclusively from Amethi in the upcoming elections, questioning the Congress’s position on his potential candidacy. Responding to this, Congress leader Jairam Ramesh deferred the decision to the Central Election Committee, underlining Amethi’s historical significance for the party.

“I have full faith that with the strong public opinion in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections under the leadership of Modi ji, the lotus of good governance, service and poor welfare (lotus) is going to bloom for the third time in the country,” she said in a post on X.

As we wait and see what unfolds, can you give us your guesses on who could Irani be facing this time? Will it be a game-changer? Will the BJP clinch it this time as well?