Neha Dhupia on Facing Criticism for Pregnancy Before Marriage: “At Least I’m on the Same List as Neena Gupta and Alia Bhatt”
Bollywood actress Neha Dhupia has once again opened up about the constant scrutiny and judgment she faced for getting pregnant before marriage. In a recent interview, Neha recalled how people questioned her choices and often reduced her personal life to gossip. Yet, with her trademark wit, she quipped that being compared to legends like Neena Gupta and contemporary stars like Alia Bhatt at least puts her in the right company.
The Controversy Around Her First Pregnancy
Neha Dhupia married actor Angad Bedi in May 2018 in an intimate ceremony. Just a few months later, the couple welcomed their first child, daughter Mehr. The timeline immediately sparked chatter, with many accusing the actress of marrying “in a hurry” due to her pregnancy.
In her latest conversation with Mid-Day, Neha recalled the judgmental remarks she faced. “People kept asking, ‘Ye kaise ho gaya?’ as if it was something to be ashamed of,” she said. “But honestly, pregnancy is beautiful—and that’s it.”
The actress admitted that being placed on the same list as Neena Gupta, who famously raised daughter Masaba as a single mother in the 1980s, and Alia Bhatt, who welcomed her daughter Raha less than a year after her wedding, felt “ridiculous” but also oddly validating. “At least I’m in great company,” Neha remarked.
A Deeper Problem of Social Judgment
Neha Dhupia’s comments reflect the ongoing double standards in society. While men often face little or no scrutiny when it comes to parenthood, women are still judged for the timing of their pregnancies or marriages.
She pointed out that despite living in a supposedly modern world, conversations around motherhood continue to be steeped in stigma. “Whether you have a baby before marriage, after marriage, at 20, or at 40—you’re always questioned,” she noted.
Her experience mirrors what Neena Gupta faced decades ago when she chose to embrace motherhood outside of marriage, a decision that drew both admiration and criticism. Similarly, Alia Bhatt, despite being one of Bollywood’s most celebrated young stars, faced speculation when she became a mother less than a year after her wedding to Ranbir Kapoor.
Turning Trolls Into Inspiration
Instead of letting the hate consume her, Neha Dhupia turned her experience into a movement. She founded “Freedom to Feed”, a platform dedicated to supporting mothers through pregnancy, breastfeeding, and postpartum challenges. The initiative encourages open conversations and works towards breaking taboos around motherhood in India.
“I wanted to create a safe space where women can talk without fear of being judged,” she explained. “Motherhood should never be treated like a scandal—it’s the most natural thing in the world.”
Her initiative has gained support from fellow celebrities and mothers who have resonated with her story. Neha Dhupia believes that the more women share their experiences, the easier it will be to dismantle outdated societal norms.
Support From Friends and Family
Neha also credited her husband Angad Bedi and close friends from the industry for standing by her during tough times. She recalled how Soha Ali Khan, who had already experienced motherhood, was among the few who provided her with practical advice and emotional support.
Angad too has often spoken about how proud he is of Neha’s strength. Together, the couple has chosen to focus on raising their children—Mehr and Guriq—in a positive environment, away from constant online judgment.
A Message Beyond Bollywood
While Neha Dhupia’s revelations grab headlines because of her celebrity status, the issue she highlights goes far beyond Bollywood. Countless women across India continue to be judged for their personal choices, whether it is pregnancy before marriage, choosing not to marry, or delaying motherhood.
Her story serves as a reminder that motherhood is not a matter of public opinion but a deeply personal journey. By speaking up, Neha joins a growing list of women in the film industry who are challenging outdated social norms and demanding acceptance for choices that should never have been questioned in the first place.
Conclusion
Neha Dhupia’s candid reflection is more than just a celebrity anecdote—it shines a light on the hypocrisy that still surrounds women’s choices in India. Her ability to laugh off criticism, her acknowledgment of being in the same category as Neena Gupta and Alia Bhatt, and her decision to launch Freedom to Feed all show resilience in the face of judgment.
As she rightly put it, “Pregnancy is beautiful, and that’s it.” Perhaps it’s time for society to finally embrace that truth.
Also Read: Parineeti Chopra & Raghav Chadha Baby News Breaks the Internet!
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