On the eve of Mother’s Day, Bollywood star Kiara Advani shared a candid account of her journey into motherhood and the significant challenges she faced during the postpartum phase. Kiara and her husband, Sidharth Malhotra, welcomed their daughter, Saraayah Malhotra, in July 2025.
Reflecting on the past year, the actress highlighted the profound internal changes that accompany becoming a parent.
"Everything changes in you as a personality," Kiara said during an interview on the Figuring Out podcast with Raj Shamani. "I feel like a completely different person compared to who I was before becoming a mum."
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The actress emphasised the need for more open dialogue surrounding the postpartum period, noting that every woman’s experience is unique and impacts them differently, both physically and emotionally. She described the transition as a massive "identity shift" into an entirely new world. "In that moment, it takes time for the woman going through it to give herself grace," she explained. "It took me six months to reach that point. You realise you are doing so much for everyone else that you forget the relationship you need to maintain with yourself."
Kiara confessed that she had become "other-centric" following the birth of her daughter. However, she eventually recognised the importance of self-nurturing, stating that finding the time to reconnect with herself has been one of the most rewarding aspects of her journey so far.
She also took the opportunity to praise Sidharth Malhotra’s supportive role during this transformative time. Despite being immersed in film promotions, Sidharth remained a constant presence. He frequently visited Kiara at her mother’s home late at night after finishing work. Following their doctor’s advice, he established a nightly routine of taking her out for short drives. This simple act proved vital, allowing her to step out, breathe, and regain a sense of normalcy.
“In those early days, I was extremely emotional; the smallest things would trigger tears,” Kiara recalled. “Those drives helped me break an overwhelming routine and get some fresh air. It’s something we can laugh about now, but it was essential then.”
Ways to manage postpartum depression
*Find someone to talk to — a therapist, friend, family member or someone who will listen to you and help you.
*Don’t delay help if you are having symptoms during pregnancy. Symptoms will likely worsen during the postpartum period without treatment.
*If breastfeeding is too stressful, prioritise your mental health and decide to bottle-feed. This allows for more flexibility in having others feed your baby.
*Try to eat as healthily as you can and find time for exercise.
*Try to get better sleep. Prioritise rest for yourself.
*Get fresh air when you can. Being outside can make you feel better.
*Get help with household chores or errands.
*Find time for self-care and doing things that you enjoy.