Kajol’s Candid Confession: “I Already Have a Mother”
Bollywood icon Kajol recently offered a remarkably candid glimpse into the early days of her marriage to actor-producer Ajay Devgn, revealing a surprising struggle with a common societal expectation. At just 24 years old when she tied the knot, the acclaimed actress admitted she felt utterly unprepared for the intricate world of marital responsibilities, including the seemingly simple act of addressing her mother-in-law.
In a recent interview, Kajol openly confessed her bewilderment during this transitional phase. “I really didn’t know what I was doing,” she recounted, emphasizing her youth at the time. “I had no idea what I was supposed to do, who I was supposed to be, *kya karna hai, kya banna hai, voh sab pata hi nahi tha mujhe ki kaise baat karni hai* (what to do, how to be, I had no idea how I was even supposed to talk).” This sentiment resonates with many who navigate the complexities of new family dynamics.
Navigating Traditional Expectations and Finding Her Voice
Among the many adjustments, one particular cultural norm presented a unique hurdle for the young bride: the expectation of addressing her mother-in-law as “mummy.” Kajol shared her internal conflict with heartfelt honesty, questioning the logic behind it. “‘*Aunty ko mummy bulana padega? Kyu? Par meri ek maa already hai* (Aunty will be addressed as mummy? Why? But I already have a mother.),'” she vividly recalled thinking. This raw thought highlights the emotional complexity of integrating into a new family while holding onto one’s existing identity.
The Wisdom of a Progressive Mother-in-Law
Crucially, Kajol’s mother-in-law displayed remarkable understanding and grace. Instead of insisting on the traditional address, she gave Kajol the space to evolve into the relationship naturally. “She was quite cool about it. She never insisted that you will have to call me mummy since you are a daughter-in-law now. Never said that to me. She said when it happens, it will happen on its own, and it happened,” Kajol recounted with evident warmth. This progressive approach allowed their bond to deepen organically, based on mutual respect rather than forced convention.
Beyond Titles: Unwavering Support for Kajol’s Career and Motherhood
The depth of this understanding wasn’t limited to a formal title. Kajol revealed that her mother-in-law was a pivotal source of encouragement, particularly after the birth of her daughter, Nysa. She was among the first to urge Kajol to resume her acting career, providing invaluable assurance. “‘*Kaam pe jana hai beta toh tu kaam ke baare mein zaroor sochna, hum hai na ghar pe sambhalne ke liye. Hum kyu hai? Hum hai na yahan pe. Toh tereko kaam karna hai toh tereko zarur kaam karna chahiye* (If you want to work, then you must think about it, we are here at home to take care of things. Why are we here? We are here. So if you want to work, then you must work),'” her mother-in-law thoughtfully advised.
This profound support not only empowered Kajol to successfully balance her roles as a devoted mother and a leading Bollywood actress but also underscores the nurturing environment she found within the Devgn family. Her latest film, “Maa,” recently released in theatres, adding another dimension to her illustrious career journey.
