Renuka Shahane Reveals Postpartum Body Shaming Experience On Gauahar Khan’s Podcast
Actor Renuka Shahane opened up on Gauahar Khan’s podcast about being told to lose weight just a day after giving birth and how societal pressures impact new mothers.

Renuka Shahane has long been cherished by audiences for her warm screen presence and grace, but behind that calm exterior lies a story of resilience that many new mothers will find deeply relatable.
In a candid conversation on Gauahar Khan’s new YouTube podcast, MaaNoranjan, the veteran actress opened up about the personal challenges she faced in the early days of motherhood. Gauahar, currently expecting her second child, invited Shahane to speak about her journey, one that reflects both joy and unexpected societal pressure.
'It Wasn't Easy': Renuka on Her First Pregnancy
Recalling the birth of her first child in 2002, Renuka described how her journey into motherhood was deeply desired, yet emotionally complex.
“My first child was born in 2002. With all the wanting, it wasn’t easy. I didn’t think that things would be that tough for me to handle. There are a lot of things that people don’t tell you,” she shared honestly.
Her story resonated with many, particularly as she spoke about the unspoken struggles and lack of preparedness that many first-time mothers experience.
What shocked her the most, however, was an insensitive remark made at a highly vulnerable moment.
“It was so strange that a doctor, who was visiting us, happened to be a friend of Ashutosh. He and his wife came to visit me in the hospital, and the first thing he said was ‘now you must lose weight’,” Renuka recalled.
She added, “Just yesterday I delivered my firstborn and I was like yeh kaunsa pressure hai, samajh nahi aaya. That was a first for me and I was completely shocked. So many things were happening to me, so I was just like a spectator, and it’s his prerogative only.”
Her words underscored how early and casually societal expectations are placed on women, especially around their bodies—sometimes even before recovery has begun.
Choosing Family and Finding Support in Ashutosh Rana
Renuka Shahane also reflected on her decision to marry fellow actor Ashutosh Rana, someone she felt shared her strong values and love for family. The two tied the knot in 2001 after dating for three years.
“One of the main reasons I got married was because I wanted to be a mother,” she revealed. “I married late, at 35, so I was keen to start a family immediately. I always thought I’d have at least two children.”
Renuka expressed joy and gratitude for Ashutosh, calling him deeply rooted in family values. Together, they have two sons—Shauryaman and Satyendra.
Their enduring relationship and Renuka’s honesty about the less glamorous parts of parenting made the episode a powerful and eye-opening listen for viewers and young parents alike.
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