In an unexpected and delightful crossover, Microsoft co-founder and philanthropist Bill Gates made his Indian television debut alongside actor and politician Smriti Irani in Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2. The teaser from the episode has gone viral, surprising fans and sparking a wave of reactions across social media.

Bill Gates greets Tulsi Virani in Hindi

In the short clip, Smriti Irani, reprising her iconic role as Tulsi Virani, greets Gates over a video call. Gates, in turn, impresses viewers by speaking in Hindi, saying, “Namaste Tulsi ji,” and even adding, “Jai Shree Krishna,” while folding his hands in a traditional greeting.

Irani’s character responds warmly, saying, “Aapka hum besabri se intezaar kar rahe hai,” (We are eagerly waiting for you). The interaction blends cultural charm with a message of global collaboration.

Promoting health and social change

Sharing the teaser online, the show’s team wrote that this collaboration goes beyond entertainment. The post read, “Iss baar Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi ki kahaani ke beech, ek naya rishta jud raha hai — sehat ka, samvedna ka, aur badlaav ka.”

The statement explained that the episode aims to highlight maternal and child health, a cause close to the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and emphasises compassion and change as shared values.

The caption added, “Do alag duniyaan, ek hi maqsad ke saath — maa aur bachche ki sehat, har ghar tak pahunchani hai.” (Two different worlds, united by one goal — ensuring the health and safety of every mother and child).

Social media reactions: ‘Crossover of the year’

Netizens were quick to react to the unexpected collaboration. Producer Ektaa Kapoor commented on the post, saying, “The best part was writing… the absolutely delightful ‘Jai Shree Krishna’ said so sweetly by @thisisbillgates.”

Social media users flooded the comments with excitement and humour.

  • “What a power move! Now that’s a crossover no one saw coming,” one user wrote.
  • Another commented, “We got Bill Gates on Indian television before GTA 6.”
  • A fan joked, “I think Bill Gates should react to Gopi Bahu cleaning her laptop with soap.”

Others hailed it as the “crossover of the year,” calling it a fun and meaningful blend of technology, entertainment, and social impact.

An innovative outreach effort

The collaboration appears to be part of a public awareness campaign promoting health initiatives supported by the Gates Foundation. Gates has often used creative communication to reach wider audiences about maternal health, vaccination, and nutrition.

Industry insiders noted that featuring a global figure like Gates in a beloved Indian TV series helps bridge global philanthropy with mass entertainment.

Conclusion

The surprise appearance has created massive buzz online, blending nostalgia, celebrity appeal, and social messaging in a single frame. Whether viewed as a marketing masterstroke or a cultural milestone, Bill Gates’ debut on Indian television has undoubtedly caught everyone’s attention