“The Guilt of Leaving Your Baby Hits Hardest”: Lavanya Tripathi

For Lavanya Tripathi, returning to work after welcoming her baby boy has been emotionally complex. The long hours on set were not the most difficult part. Instead, it was the smaller moments—like getting dressed for interviews—that triggered an unexpected wave of guilt.

She shared that being in makeup and certain outfits made her hesitant to hold her baby, a feeling that intensified when he looked at her. According to her, the emotional weight of stepping away, even briefly, is heavier than the physical demands of work.

Navigating Motherhood and Work

Five months into motherhood, Lavanya is adjusting to a new routine. She described how life now revolves entirely around her son—her time, thoughts, and priorities have shifted.

While she did not encounter major surprises in motherhood, thanks to years of helping raise her sister’s children, she admits that experiencing maternal instinct firsthand changed her perspective. She once struggled with interrupted sleep but now understands how instinct can override exhaustion.

Lavanya emphasised that she embraced motherhood at her own pace and always wanted to be a mother. For her, the experience feels fulfilling rather than burdensome.

Shooting Sathi Leelavathi During Pregnancy

Lavanya revealed that she was in her first trimester while filming Sathi Leelavathi—a detail she kept private from the crew at the time.

She recalled dealing with nausea and migraines while travelling daily to the set. Despite feeling physically drained, she completed the schedule, including a dance sequence. After each shoot day, she would visit the hospital to ensure everything was progressing safely.

Describing the film as a modern entertainer, she noted that the story challenges the traditional portrayal of a suffering wife. Instead, it presents a confident woman who asserts her agency when faced with marital conflict.

Support from Varun Tej

At home, Lavanya credits her husband, Varun Tej, for being an active and involved parent. She shared that he participates fully in childcare responsibilities, from diaper changes to nighttime routines.

She described their relationship as rooted in friendship and communication. According to her, they openly discuss concerns without defensiveness, which strengthens their partnership during this transitional phase.

A Balanced Perspective

As she navigates motherhood and her professional comeback, Lavanya remains mindful of the privileges that allow her flexibility. She acknowledges that advice about balancing work and parenting may not apply universally, choosing instead to speak from her own lived experience.

Her journey highlights a recurring reality for many working mothers—the emotional adjustment can be as significant as the logistical one.