Actor Shruti Haasan, daughter of renowned actors Kamal Haasan and Sarika, recently opened up about their divorce and the valuable life lessons she learned from it. In a candid conversation on Pinkvilla’s podcast, Shruti shared how her parents’ separation impacted her, teaching her the importance of financial and personal independence.
Shruti described her childhood as one filled with comfort, thanks to her artistic and intelligent parents. However, everything changed when her parents decided to part ways. “When my parents split up, that’s when I realised the value of financial independence, personality-dependent independence,” she said. Shruti highlighted how witnessing her mother’s decision to leave the marriage gave her a deep understanding of why it is essential for women to be independent.
The love story of Kamal and Sarika began on the sets of the 1984 film Raaj Tilak, and they married shortly after. However, despite their best efforts, their marriage faced challenges, leading to their divorce in 2004. Shruti shared that her parents maintained an open and honest dialogue about their decision, always prioritizing the children’s well-being above all else.
Shruti also reflected on societal attitudes towards independence, particularly in the context of women. “Men’s independence is greatly celebrated, but we don’t often celebrate the silent, everyday battles women face in being independent,” she noted. She emphasized that the struggle for independence is often unrecognized, and women must often support themselves without external applause.
While Shruti acknowledged the pain caused by her parents’ separation, she also shared a deeper perspective on family dynamics. “It is painful for both the children and the parents. But in some families, where the parents stay together, there can be more hidden pain,” she said, recognizing that family struggles come in many forms.
Despite the pain of their separation, Shruti fondly recalled her parents’ earlier years together. “When they were happy, they were the most beautiful couple I have ever seen,” she said, reminiscing about their shared work in the film industry and how the entire family, including her sister Akshara, was involved in filmmaking.
In conclusion, Shruti expressed gratitude for her parents’ maturity in handling their divorce. “If they are happy separately, then it is good for us also,” she said, emphasizing that her parents’ individual happiness continues to benefit the family as a whole.
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