Bollywood icon Madhuri Dixit has opened up about the pivotal role her in-laws played in enabling her triumphant return to the silver screen, crediting their strong work ethic and understanding of individuality for her successful career revival.
The Foundation of Support: A Family That Works
In a candid conversation with Ranveer Allahbadia, Madhuri Dixit reflected on her life after marrying Dr. Shriram Nene in 1999. She left a flourishing film career in India at that time to move to the United States, embracing the role of a housewife who cared for her husband and in-laws. However, this phase was not permanent. By the late 2000s, she made a high-profile comeback in Mumbai with a film under the Yash Raj Films banner.
The actress emphasized that this transition would have been impossible without the backing of her marital family. "I am very lucky that when I got married, I got enough support from my in-laws," she stated. She explained that marriage integrates you into a new unit, and progress is difficult unless that unit supports your aspirations.
Leading by Example: An 80-Year-Old Working Mother-in-Law
Madhuri Dixit highlighted the inspiring example set by her own family. She revealed that her mother-in-law, fondly referred to as 'Dr. Nene's mom', continues to be professionally active in the real estate sector in the US, even though she is over 80 years old. Her father-in-law, she added, only recently retired at the age of 83.
This environment of diligence and self-reliance shaped their perspective towards her. "I got married in a family where everyone is working and they understand that it is very important for a woman to have her identity," Madhuri shared. She noted that her in-laws always knew she would manage household responsibilities, but they equally valued her need to pursue personal fulfillment and professional goals. This mutual understanding created a balanced dynamic where her work was seen as a contribution to the family unit.
Parenting Philosophy: Trusting the Values You Impart
The conversation also veered into Madhuri Dixit's approach to parenting her two sons, Arin and Ryan. She spoke about the 'empty nest' phase, a tricky period for both parents and children when the latter leave for college. Parents often worry about the company their children keep and the decisions they make independently.
Madhuri's advice to parents is rooted in trust. "Trust them that once they are there, they will use the lessons you have taught them," she said. She acknowledged that young adults might make minor mistakes or wrong decisions as they navigate life on their own for the first time. The key, according to her, is to support them through these learning experiences, allowing them to face challenges, find stability, and grow.
Her core parenting principle involves instilling strong values—like respect and choosing the right path—and then having faith in those foundations. This philosophy mirrors the support and autonomy she herself received from her family, creating a full-circle narrative of empowerment and trust across generations.
