The challenge of juggling a demanding job with the responsibilities of early motherhood has historically been viewed as a complex and often limiting experience for women, particularly in professions with variable hours. However, this perspective is gradually evolving. Actress Yami Gautam recently discussed her personal journey through this adjustment, emphasizing the importance of family support in managing her dual roles.
In a conversation with Grazia, Gautam shared her experiences as a working mother. She stated, “I owe my ability to navigate this phase to the support system I have; otherwise, it would be quite challenging. We all need assistance, and it’s essential to recognize that. When help is provided, it often comes from family. I am incredibly thankful to my mother, as her support enables me to pursue my career.” Her remarks underscore the reality that caregiving is typically a collective effort, even if it is not always openly acknowledged.
She elaborated on how her household responsibilities are currently managed, highlighting her husband, Aditya Dhar, who has taken on a more significant caregiving role as she returns to work. “With a young baby, being on set may not be the ideal environment for them. It feels like you have your heart outside your body, and you must consider who you trust to care for it while both parents are working. At present, I am focused on my career, and Aditya has completed his recent projects, allowing him to spend time with Vedavid. Our families support us as we navigate this together. Planning everything is impossible; you have to adapt while keeping your child and family as your top priority,” Gautam explained.
Yami Gautam and Aditya Dhar, who first crossed paths during the production of “Uri: The Surgical Strike” and married in 2021, welcomed their son in 2024.
Neha Cadabam, a Senior Psychologist and Executive Director at Cadabam’s Hospitals, shared with indianexpress.com that “having a robust support network is crucial in alleviating the mental strain on new parents. The early stages of parenthood often involve sleep deprivation, adjusting roles, and continuous decision-making, all of which can elevate stress and emotional exhaustion.”
She further noted that when caregiving duties are distributed among a dependable support system—be it a partner, family member, or hired caregiver—it allows parents to maintain their emotional well-being, promoting a calmer and more confident approach to parenting. This collaborative structure not only decreases the likelihood of burnout and anxiety but also enhances overall mental health by providing stability and reassurance.
Families can thrive through a caregiving model that is both organized and flexible. Clear delineation of roles between partners, along with additional support networks, ensures consistent care without placing undue pressure on a single person.
“Implementing flexible work arrangements can significantly alleviate stress and facilitate parental engagement in both their professional and personal lives. Establishing consistent routines for children is beneficial as it fosters emotional security. Ongoing communication within the family about changing needs is essential to maintain equilibrium and prevent caregiving from becoming a source of tension,” Cadabam concluded.
