By Anil Merani: Talented actor Pankhuri Awasthy, who has returned from pregnancy break with a small cameo in Vasudha, is enjoying her journey as a mother.
“Motherhood is a transformative journey that brings joy to every aspect of life—physical, mental, and psychological,” she shares. “Nurturing twins and being responsible for their growth is a role we, as women, are naturally attuned to. The joy we experience in seeing our children thrive is unparalleled.”
“Parenthood also introduces you to different experiences. Until now, we were only concerned about ourselves, but you encounter a new form of love you haven’t experienced before. I always want to continue feeling this way,” she adds.
She admits, “It is a challenging task, especially when you have two kids who both demand your complete attention, but the contentment you feel when you look at them makes it all worthwhile.”
“The journey has become more complex today, especially with women working outside the home,” says Pankhuri, who first gained fame with “Razia Sultan.”
“Having always hoped for a boy and a girl, I was pleasantly surprised to learn I was expecting twins. I was over the moon when I found out one of each was on the way. Our family feels complete—what more could I ask for?” she shares.
Pankhuri met her husband, Gautam Rode, during the shooting of Suryaputra Karn. She notes that having children brings the husband-wife relationship to a new level. “Before, it was just the two of us. Now, we have someone else to care for.”
“Maintaining open communication is crucial, especially when the children’s needs take precedence, which can sometimes lead to a breakdown in communication and other potential problems,” she advises, sharing her insights on parenting.
“The initial three months were a significant adjustment for me, as I was new to motherhood and recovering from a C-section,” she confesses. “Gautam has been my unwavering support during those challenging days; we make it a point to find time for each other amidst our responsibilities.”
Pankhuri, who has also appeared in the 2020 film Shubh Mangal Zyada Saavdhan,” adds that Gautam is a hands-on father who actively shares parenting responsibilities. Fathers are more sensitive today than they were in their fathers’ time when men focused on earning money while women managed the household.”
She reiterates, “The first three months were particularly tough due to my recovery and my inexperience as a mother. Gautam helps care for the twins at night so that I can get some decent sleep.”
When asked if she could handle twelve-hour work shifts once she begins work full-time, she responds, “I will cross that bridge when I come to it. I feel fortunate to have supportive parents willing to assist me if I need to go for a day shoot.”
