Fathers Defy Stigma: Ranchi Builder and Retired Judge Welcome Divorced Daughters Home
In a powerful display of parental love and defiance against societal pressure, two fathers from different backgrounds have made headlines for publicly welcoming their divorced daughters back home. The story began in Ranchi, where builder Prem Kumar Gupta of Kishoreganj celebrated his daughter's return with traditional fanfare three years ago, and has now found resonance with retired Meerut judge Gyanendra Kumar Sharma, who did the same last week.
A Sense of Vindication and Relived Memories
For Gupta, the news of Judge Sharma's similar action stirred deep emotions and a sense of validation. "For me, it was like reliving that day," Gupta told TOI on Wednesday. He recalled facing criticism from some quarters when he initially welcomed his daughter back. "Some people didn't approve of what we did. They spoke about society, of norms. But when I read about a learned judge doing the same, I felt I was not wrong." His conviction remains unwavering and deeply personal, rooted in a simple belief: "Every parent must realise that a daughter is not a liability."
Sakshi Gupta's Journey to Healing and a Fresh Start
Three years after her return, Sakshi Gupta's family reports that their decision to stand by her has brought peace, healing, and a new beginning. In February, Sakshi remarried a Delhi-based man, a match found through a matrimonial portal. Her father expressed joy at her renewed happiness. "She chose to give herself a second chance, and we were very happy. They are happy. Just a few days back, they returned from a bike trip to Ladakh," Gupta shared.
Sakshi, a fashion designer, intentionally chose to marry a divorcee, believing that shared experiences of difficult phases in life could foster better understanding. Beyond her personal life, she has demonstrated independence by opening a boutique from her residence in Delhi. "She always wanted to stand on her own feet, even after marriage," her father noted, highlighting her determination.
The Painful Reality Behind the First Marriage
Gupta recounted that Sakshi's first marriage began to unravel almost immediately, despite appearing reassuring on paper. The groom was a state government employee in a good position, and the alliance came through family contacts. However, the reality was starkly different. "Soon we came to know she was facing harassment," Gupta revealed. The family later discovered that Sakshi's former husband had relationships with other women and had been divorced earlier—facts unknown to them at the time of marriage.
Courage from Family and a Decision for Dignity
In the face of societal pressure, Gupta credited his mother for giving him the courage to prioritize his daughter's well-being. "She told me to do what was right," he recalled. This guidance led the family to a firm resolution: "As a family, we then decided that if our daughter was coming back, she would come back with dignity." This principle has guided their actions and continues to inspire others facing similar situations.
These stories from Ranchi and Meerut underscore a growing shift in attitudes towards divorce and parental support in India. By openly embracing their daughters, Gupta and Judge Sharma are challenging outdated norms and advocating for compassion and acceptance within families.
