For Parineeti Chopra, her first Mother's Day was nothing extravagant. It was simple, routine-filled, and wonderfully ordinary. The Amar Singh Chamkila actress and her husband, politician Raghav Chadha, welcomed their baby boy, Neer, last October. In an exclusive conversation, Parineeti speaks about embracing motherhood, how her priorities have shifted, and returning to work.
A Simple, Real Mother's Day
She says, “I spent the most simple, real and wholesome Mother's Day because I was so involved with my baby throughout the day. I’m in the throes of new motherhood, which takes up all your mindspace, emotions, sleep, everything. I got a lot of love from my husband and family. But for the most part, I spent it the way I spend everyday... just taking care of things, which I think really defines mothers. Sometimes moms don’t have time for big celebrations, they don’t even have time to celebrate their own birthday.”
How Motherhood Changes Perspective
As the conversation moves on to how motherhood alters one’s perspective, the actress reflects on the emotional and physical changes she has experienced. “I don’t know how to put it in words. I think the focus of your life and existence changes. A father’s connection with the baby starts nine months after the mother’s. But when that happens, both their focus becomes this little human and you just want to be the best version of yourself for your child,” she shares.
Keeping Identity Intact
As she gradually returns to work, Parineeti speaks about the importance of holding on to one’s individuality while embracing parenthood. She explains, “Raghav and I come from such strong backgrounds and careers that even as parents, we are operating from that space. We have been mindful and are taking care of the fact that we need to keep our identities intact. Pursuing our individual careers is a different matter, but what is key is holding on to our identities, which brings us happiness. This, I believe, will also help me be a happy mom to a happy baby.”
Prioritising Baby Over Work
Talking about getting back to work, Parineeti, who became Johnson Baby's ambassador, says, “I will be with my baby 24/7 and leave everything if that’s what’s needed. Even as I go back to work, I’m certain that emotionally and mentally, my part in the family – as a wife and mother – must remain intact. As far as what I’m doing next is concerned, I haven’t really decided anything yet. I’m slowly getting back,” she says, adding, “When it comes to work, it’s a simple equation – if it’s worth leaving my baby even for 60 seconds in a day, I will do that. Otherwise, I will not touch it. This is not arrogance. This is simply about prioritising. I am happy to take a break from work if I think it’s the right thing to do.”
Joining Johnson's Baby
Talking about associating with the brand she adds, "It's important to be associated with brands that I get excited about. When they came to me, I had a fan moment. Johnson's Baby wants me. Being the face of Johnson's Baby becomes like you become part of a 100-year-old legacy. More than anything, I think my parents and grandparents, they're going to be excited."
Finding Inner Strength
Parineeti also elaborates on how motherhood has helped her find a different kind of strength within herself. “I think every mother becomes a tigress. You find strength in yourself that you didn’t see before. Things that bothered and hurt you earlier, now seem so trivial and inconsequential. Your entire energy is diverted towards your child and you realise what gargantuan strength you have within you which was untapped so far. It is the most magical experience,” she explains.
