Karishma Tanna on Postpartum Depression: ‘I Am Strong, But It Still Hits You’

Karishma Tanna has opened up about the emotional realities of early motherhood, sharing her experience with postpartum depression and why she believes new mothers should not feel guilty about struggling after childbirth.

The actor and her husband, Varun Bangera, welcomed their first child, son Ved, in July. In a recent conversation with The Times of India, Karishma spoke candidly about how motherhood changed her perspective and the emotional challenges that came with it.

While she had previously admitted that maternal instincts did not come naturally to her, becoming a mother brought an immediate shift in her feelings.

Karishma Tanna Says Motherhood Changed Her Perspective

Karishma described motherhood as an “amazing” experience and recalled feeling an immediate sense of responsibility after Ved was born.

She said the emotional connection was intense, describing the baby as feeling almost like a part of her own body.

“Motherhood is not easy, but it’s beautiful,” Karishma said.

The actor also reflected on the physical and emotional strength required during childbirth and the period that follows. Praising women for navigating the experience, she said, “If you can survive this and if you can do this, trust me, you have the superpower.”

For Karishma, becoming a mother also offered a new understanding of what strength can mean.

‘I Am Strong, But It Still Hits You’

Karishma said she had already prepared herself mentally for the possibility of experiencing emotional lows after giving birth. Rather than dismissing those feelings or blaming herself for them, she acknowledged that postpartum depression is real.

“It is real, and I am strong. However, after all this, it still hits you, and it is not in your control. You still have to go through it,” she said.

Her comments highlight an important distinction she experienced personally: being mentally strong does not necessarily mean being immune to difficult postpartum emotions.

Karishma also described how quickly her emotions could change during this period. She recalled moments when happiness could give way to extremely low feelings within seconds.

“There are times when you find yourself crying over every little thing, and yet you keep going,” she said, describing the experience as “unimaginable.”

Karishma Tanna’s Message to New Mothers

The Scoop actor also urged new mothers not to judge themselves harshly or become trapped in guilt over whether they are doing enough.

“You can’t judge yourself and put yourself on that guilt trip. Whatever you’re doing, it’s just perfect for you and your baby. A happy mother leads to a happy child,” Karishma said.

Her comments come from her own experience of adjusting to motherhood while recovering from childbirth and dealing with significant emotional and hormonal changes.

Postpartum mental health experiences can vary widely from person to person. Persistent sadness, anxiety, hopelessness or other distressing symptoms should not simply be dismissed as something every new mother has to endure; seeking support from a qualified healthcare professional can be important.

Karishma and Varun Bangera Welcome Son Ved

Karishma Tanna and Varun Bangera welcomed their baby boy in Mumbai on July 29.

Announcing his arrival on social media, the couple wrote, “Born on the sacred day of Guru Purnima. Our greatest blessing is here. Welcome to our world, little one.”

A few days later, they introduced their son by name, revealing that he is called Ved Tanna Bangera.