Vikrant Massey's Candid Confession: 'Dad Guilt' Prompted Career Break
When actor Vikrant Massey announced in December 2024 that he was "returning home" and stepping away from his professional commitments, the entertainment industry was taken by surprise. His statement sparked widespread speculation, with many linking it to the ongoing debates about nepotism and the struggles faced by outsiders in Bollywood.
The Personal Truth Behind the Headlines
However, the actor has now revealed that his decision was deeply personal, rooted in his experience as a first-time father to his newborn son Vardaan and what he describes as "dad guilt." In a recent interview with Parineeti Chopra for her show Mom Talks, Massey reflected on this transformative phase of his life.
"I never in my wildest dreams thought that my decision to take a break from work for my son would become national news," Massey shared. "When Vardaan was born, by the grace of God, I was extremely busy. The first reason I wanted to step back was my physical and mental exhaustion."
He elaborated on the emotional toll of his professional life, stating, "You know how much we give of ourselves emotionally, physically, mentally. As a first-time father, my attention was always at home. I didn't even question what or why I was doing. I just wanted to wrap up my commitments and spend as much time as possible with Vardaan and Sheetal Thakur."
The Moment of Realization
Massey recounted a poignant moment that crystallized his need to prioritize family. "I remember when he had gone to his nani's (grandmother) house and had just begun trying to say 'papa.' He couldn't pronounce it, but he blew air. That's when it struck me—it was time to go back home," he revealed. "Two months later, I made the announcement. This has become the biggest earning of my life—I have received more than I ever wanted."
Opening Up About Fatherhood and Vulnerability
The actor spoke candidly about the challenges new fathers face, contrasting their experience with that of mothers. "Compared to a mother, we dads don't even do one-fourth," he admitted. "But just like new mothers, new fathers also feel strange stepping out, leaving their baby behind. There's a conditioning that men must be the providers—that's what pushes us out of the house."
He described the emotional conflict many fathers experience, saying, "It's natural to envy the one who gets to stay back. We end up calling every 30 minutes just to see the baby's face. I just want to tell new fathers—it's okay to feel vulnerable and want to go back home."
Sheetal Thakur's Perspective on Vikrant's Transformation
Sharing her insights, Sheetal Thakur spoke about how fatherhood has fundamentally changed Massey. "I have seen a changed man, though I can't pinpoint when it happened. He moves through the world like a father now," she observed. "I have seen him as a boy, my boyfriend, fiance, and husband—but now, when I look at him, I see a dad. He has truly become a father."
The Original Announcement and Future Plans
Back in December 2024, shortly after the release of The Sabarmati Report, Massey took to social media to explain his decision publicly. He wrote, "Hello, the last few years and beyond have been phenomenal. I thank each and every one of you for your indelible support. But as I move forward, I realise it's time to recalibrate and go back home—as a husband, father, and son, and also as an actor."
He further elaborated on his plans, stating, "So, coming 2025, we will meet one last time—until time deems it right again. Two more films and many years of memories. Thank you again, for everything and everything in between. Forever indebted."
Vikrant Massey and Sheetal Thakur welcomed their son Vardaan in February 2024. The actor was last seen in films like Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyaan and O'Romeo, marking a significant period in his career before this personal hiatus.
