Shabana Azmi: Motherhood Not Womanhood's Definition

Veteran actor Shabana Azmi has consistently advocated that motherhood does not define womanhood, nor does its absence diminish a woman's value. She shared that the presence of Farhan and Zoya Akhtar, children from her husband Javed Akhtar's previous marriage, naturally filled the emotional space that biological children might have occupied.

Azmi candidly spoke about the initial emotional challenges of confronting infertility, acknowledging societal pressures that can make women feel incomplete. However, she stressed that her identity was never solely dependent on motherhood, advocating for women to find their ultimate sense of self through their professional endeavors and to overcome patriarchal expectations.

Further elaborating on her choices, Azmi explained her decision not to adopt, highlighting her fulfilling relationships with her stepchildren as they grew older. She noted that not having children simplified her life choices, allowing her to dedicate more time to her career, and that she consciously chose gratitude over dwelling on any potential grief.