Esha Deol, daughter of veteran actors Hema Malini and Dharmendra, went through a major life change in 2024 when she announced her divorce from Bharat Takhtani. The actor, who shares two daughters with
her ex-husband, reflected on the challenges of navigating single parenthood and how she has embraced the responsibility of co-parenting.
In a throwback interview with The Quint, Esha revealed that while the transition hasn’t been easy, her children remain the centre of her world. She admitted that single parenting can often feel “overwhelming,” but emphasized that ensuring her daughters’ happiness and stability has always been her top priority.
On Co-Parenting And Putting Kids First
Esha explained that even though the relationship between two individuals can change, parents must continue to stand united for their children. “When kids are involved, it is important to let your ego aside and have the threshold. At the end of the day, we are parents to these beautiful kids. Let’s give them the best,” she said.
She further added that when parents decide to put their children above personal differences, it naturally softens the bond between ex-partners. “The other person has to melt, if it’s possible. And you change the roles. And you co-parent,” Esha said.
The actor stressed the importance of acting as a unit, even after separation. “For your kids, you have to be a unit. That unit can’t break. Maybe the other unit has broken but for your kids, be that one unit,” she explained. For Esha, the key is to never give up on trying to make co-parenting work.
Taking A Break From Acting For Motherhood
When asked about stepping back from her acting career, Esha shared that it was a conscious decision to focus on her family. “My break was purely to start a family and I embraced motherhood twice over. Automatically as a woman, it’s my choice, I want to give my children that time,” she said.
Esha added that she always dreamt of a simple yet fulfilling life—marriage, family, and children alongside her professional journey. She also noted how her daughters enjoy seeing their mother on screen, which continues to inspire her as an actor and as a parent.
