The entertainment industry is currently abuzz with a heated debate sparked by actor Suniel Shetty's recent comments regarding his daughter Athiya Shetty's childbirth experience. Shetty, in an interview, praised Athiya for choosing a natural delivery over a C-section, stating that "In a world where everybody wants the comfort of having a caesarean baby, she chose not to do that and had a natural delivery." These words have ignited a firestorm of criticism, with many perceiving them as undermining the experiences and choices of women who undergo C-sections.
Among the most vocal critics is actress Gauahar Khan, who recently launched her YouTube podcast "MaaaNoranjan," dedicated to conversations around motherhood, pregnancy, and parenting. In her very first episode, Gauahar didn't hold back, expressing her strong disapproval of Shetty's remarks. She questioned the lack of awareness surrounding childbirth and slammed the idea that C-sections are an "easy" option. "I want to like scream at the top of my voice and say, How could you say that? Like how?" Gauahar exclaimed, clearly upset by the implications of Shetty's statement.
Gauahar further emphasized the persistent myths surrounding surgical deliveries and criticized the fact that such comments were coming from a male celebrity who hasn't experienced pregnancy or childbirth firsthand. She stressed that C-sections are often medically necessary and far from easy, both physically and emotionally. "And for a male celebrity to say that, who didn't go through pregnancy, didn't carry a child, doesn't know how painful C-section is,” she added, highlighting the lack of understanding from someone who hasn't personally gone through the process.
Adding another layer of depth to the conversation, Gauahar Khan bravely shared a personal experience on her podcast – revealing that she had suffered a miscarriage before the birth of her son, Zehaan. Fighting back tears, she recalled the pain of losing the baby at around nine weeks, calling it an indescribable loss. This revelation underscores the emotional complexities surrounding pregnancy and childbirth, further emphasizing the sensitivity required when discussing these topics.
Suniel Shetty's comments have been met with widespread criticism online, with many social media users, particularly women, voicing their concerns that his phrasing downplayed the physical and emotional realities behind C-section deliveries. In response to the backlash, Shetty has since clarified his remarks, stating that his words were misinterpreted and taken out of context. He offered an apology to those who felt hurt by his statement, emphasizing his deep respect for women and acknowledging the courage and strength involved in every birth. "My statements were never meant to downplay or question the medical need or emotional strength involved in a C-section. Every birth is courageous," Shetty stated.
This controversy serves as a reminder of the importance of sensitivity and awareness when discussing childbirth. Whether it's a natural delivery or a C-section, every woman's experience is unique and deserves to be respected. Gauahar Khan's powerful response and personal revelation have further amplified this message, encouraging open and honest conversations about the realities of motherhood.
