Why Bill Gates did a cameo in an iconic Indian TV drama

In an unexpected twist, Microsoft founder and philanthropist Bill Gates made a cameo appearance on the iconic Indian soap opera *Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi* (Because the Mother-in-Law Was Also Once Daughter-in-Law). The episode, which aired on Thursday night, featured Gates discussing maternal and child health with actress and former federal minister Smriti Irani, who plays the lead character Tulsi. The Gates Foundation has long been involved in initiatives to reduce infant and maternal mortality in India, particularly in the states of Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, where healthcare challenges persist. Gates’ appearance on the show aimed to amplify awareness about these critical issues through a platform that resonates deeply with Indian audiences. The four-minute segment saw Gates greeting Tulsi in Hindi, discussing the importance of maternal health, and emphasizing the need for proper nutrition and medical care during pregnancy. The show’s producers, JioStar Entertainment, highlighted their commitment to using storytelling to address socially relevant topics, stating that the integration of such themes can inspire real-world change. Gates is set to appear in three episodes of the series, which recently returned for its second season after a 25-year hiatus. While the show has faced stiff competition from modern OTT platforms, Gates’ cameo has reignited public interest, with a promotional clip garnering over six million views on Instagram in less than a day. The unexpected crossover has sparked a mix of surprise and amusement among viewers, with many praising the innovative approach to raising awareness about maternal and child health.