Motherhood is not the end! Indian actresses redefining career post-motherhood

For decades, the Indian film industry painted motherhood as a pause, if not a full stop, in an actress’s career. However, today’s leading ladies are rewriting that narrative. 

Balancing the demands of motherhood with the rigors of film sets, these women have become symbols of strength and change, showing the world that motherhood can be a part of, not apart from, a thriving career.

Kareena Kapoor Khan

Kareena Kapoor Khan famously returned to work just months after giving birth to her first son, Taimur, and again after Jeh. Shooting for ‘Veere Di Wedding’ during her pregnancy and later walking the ramp with her baby bump, Kareena shattered the age-old belief that motherhood sidelines an actress. 

Anushka Sharma

After giving birth to daughter Vamika in 2021, Anushka Sharma took a conscious break but never quit. She’s back with Chakda ‘Xpress, a film where she trained intensively while balancing her new role as a mom. Her social media often reflects her journey, celebrating work, family, and self-care in equal measure.

Priyanka Chopra Jonas

Priyanka Chopra Jonas welcomed her daughter Malti Marie via surrogacy in 2022. With international projects like Citadel and Love Again releasing soon after, she continues to prove that motherhood doesn’t clip wings, it can coexist with a global career. Priyanka’s candid discussions about parenting and her unapologetic commitment to work have inspired many.

Neha Dhupia

Neha Dhupia shot for ‘A Thursday’ while pregnant with her second child, often discussing how pregnancy and motherhood shouldn’t limit professional opportunities. She’s become an advocate for working mothers, using her platform to normalise breastfeeding and parenting challenges in public spaces.

Sushmita Sen

Sushmita Sen adopted two daughters, Renee and Alisah, at a time when single motherhood was rare in Bollywood. Her comeback with Aarya on OTT platforms was met with critical acclaim, showing the world that motherhood is not a barrier but a motivation. Her journey highlights the power of choice and resilience.

The New Normal in Indian Cinema

These trailblazing actresses are not just redefining motherhood but also rewriting how society views women’s careers post-motherhood. By normalising breastfeeding on sets, bringing children to shoots, and openly discussing their journeys, they inspire countless women to pursue their ambitions without guilt.

As more Indian actresses embrace motherhood while staying active in their careers, the message is clear that motherhood doesn’t end a career rather it enriches it.