Jaya Bhattacharya, a familiar face in Indian television and best remembered as Payal Parikh in Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, has recently spoken out about the harsh reality behind the scenes of the hit daily soap. Though the show catapulted her to fame and earned her widespread recognition, the actress now reveals she was the ‘most underpaid actor on the set’, a revelation that’s surprising, considering the scale and success of the show.
In a candid conversation with Siddharth Kannan, Jaya shared her experience of working on the show that aired for eight years and defined the golden era of Indian TV. The Ekta Kapoor production brought together iconic stars like Smriti Irani, Amar Upadhyay, and many others. While viewers adored the drama and the performances, Jaya’s journey off-screen was marked by silence and sacrifice.
The One-Time Raise That Hurt Her Ego
During the interview, Jaya disclosed a key moment in her career that left a lasting impact. “I was the most underpaid actor,” she stated. She shared that she had only asked for a raise once in all the years she was on the show. When the production finally agreed, while others received a raise of Rs 2,000, she was offered only Rs 1,000.
That minor difference struck her deeply. “That hit my ego, so I didn’t ask for it ever again and hence didn’t get a raise for a straight 7 years,” Jaya admitted. Despite the long hours, dedication, and contribution to the show’s success, she endured this pay gap quietly.
Jaya also acknowledged how the rest of the cast advanced in their careers and earnings. “Woh log toh kahan se kahan paunch gaye,” she said, referring to her co-stars who moved ahead with higher visibility and better financial compensation.
Despite her reserved nature, Jaya’s portrayal of the cunning yet compelling Payal left an impression on viewers. Her performance was layered, commanding screen presence while supporting the larger narrative of the show. Yet, behind the scenes, she struggled in silence.
The Show That Defined a Generation Returns
While Jaya’s story sheds light on the inequality behind the glam, Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi is once again in the spotlight. The makers have announced a reboot of the show with the return of Smriti Irani as Tulsi. A new promo released by the channel teased viewers with the line: “Badalte waqt mein ek naye nazariye ke saath laut rahi hai Tulsi!” The revival promises fresh storytelling, deeper characters, and a modern take on traditional family drama.
Jaya Bhattacharya’s emotional journey and professional dedication to Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi are a reflection of the untold stories behind the glitter of the small screen.
