Ranveer Singh currently enjoys a close relationship with his mother-in-law, but it wasn’t always smooth sailing for the actor. During his appearance on Season 8 of Koffee With Karan, Singh recounted the initial challenges he faced in winning over Deepika Padukone’s mother.
The actor revealed, “I remember going into their home in Bangalore, and I could hear Deepika and Amma arguing. She was questioning, ‘Who is this guy?! He proposed, and you actually said yes?’” He shared this anecdote with host Karan Johar, highlighting the tension that existed at the beginning of their relationship.
Singh continued, “It took many years and considerable effort on my part to secure a place in Amma’s heart. Fortunately, I believe I’ve succeeded, and I’m now one of her favorite individuals.”
Dr. Rimpa Sarkar, a clinical psychologist and founder of Sentier Wellness in Mumbai, offers insights on navigating challenging relationships with in-laws. She emphasizes that when a connection starts off on the wrong foot, it’s essential to avoid forcing intimacy. Instead, trust should be cultivated through consistent, respectful interactions rather than grand gestures.
Dr. Sarkar provides several strategies for improving these relationships:
1. Avoid excessive attempts to gain their approval. While it’s important to be respectful and genuine, overexerting oneself can lead to resentment and make the relationship feel inauthentic. Disapproval may stem from limited understanding or preconceived notions, and consistent, positive behavior over time often speaks louder than arguments.
Finding common ground through shared interests, food, family traditions, humor, or everyday activities can foster familiarity without the need for an immediate emotional bond.
Partners can support one another without turning disagreements into a battle of “me against my family.” Ideally, couples should communicate openly and privately, while addressing conflicts with in-laws in a manner that maintains boundaries and mutual respect.
Establishing respect does not require accepting interference in all aspects of the marriage. Couples should clearly define what matters to them as a unit and communicate those boundaries calmly and consistently.
If every interaction becomes a tally of who reached out first, it risks perpetuating the original conflict. It’s important to recognize that a close bond with in-laws isn’t always necessary for a successful relationship; a respectful and comfortable dynamic with healthy boundaries can also be a satisfactory outcome.
Dr. Sarkar concludes by noting the crucial role a partner plays in fostering this connection. “When someone feels accepted and secure within their marriage, it becomes easier for them to gradually connect with their extended family without the pressure to prove their worth,” she explains.
