Ileana D'Cruz Spills the Beans on Motherhood, Hands-On Parenting, and a Possible Acting Re-Entry
Bollywood actress Ileana D'Cruz, who has been out of the silver screen since giving birth as a mother, recently discussed her post-childbirth life, hands-on parenting with husband Michael Dolan, and what she thinks about a possible return to films. The actress, now based in Houston, Texas, made the revelation during an Instagram Live with Neha Dhupia on the Freedom To Feed channel.
Motherhood Takes Center Stage
Ileana gave birth to her first child, Koa Phoenix Dolan, in August 2023 and her second son, Keanu Rafe Dolan, in June 2025. Talking about her journey to motherhood, she stated, "I really love my work and miss it intensely. I miss being on screen and playing different characters, and just being on sets and working with amazing people. But I also want to make it a point to be with my boys and take care of them, particularly because I am doing it hands-on."
The actress shared the emotional turbulences of having two children, confirming that there were times she had doubts about herself and was anxious. "There were times I felt I wasn't a perfect mother. I broke down so many times, wondering if I was doing things right. But slowly I've realized it's okay to have those feelings; it's all part of the process," she said.
Why Ileana Chooses Hands-On Parenting
Ileana and Michael decided in principle to raise their children without a nanny, believing in being actively involved in their daily lives. "We don't have help, and I really wanted to be a hands-on mother. I'm just so afraid of letting go and want to make sure everything is done the way I think is best," she said. She stressed that this method enables her to develop a close relationship with her children, decide on parenting herself, and directly influence their values.
She also credited her husband for being very supportive. "I truly wish every mom had a partner as supportive as Mike. He has just been there since day one, regardless of anything. He said help, therapy, or a nanny if you need it, but I refused. It's been fascinating, and I would not have it otherwise," Ileana said.
The Challenges of Breastfeeding
Ileana openly discussed breastfeeding and the difficulties of nursing after pregnancy. She said that the experience was intense and painful at first but also a special bonding experience with her children. "I don't know, maybe 'privilege' is the right word. It's such a privilege to feed your child and form that connection," she said.
She also shared that mixed advice from doctors and lactation consultants made her doubt, but with time, she gained confidence in her own judgment and instincts.
Back to the Silver Screen?
Though Ileana misses acting, she is not hurrying her return. "I feel like I will regret incredibly if I leave my children and attempt to work randomly. I wish to prepare myself both mentally and physically before I return," she explained. The actress made clear that her career is still significant, but motherhood is now more important.
Her last outing was in the romantic comedy Do Aur Do Pyaar, where she starred with Vidya Balan, Pratik Gandhi, and Sendhil Ramamurthy. Her fans are awaiting the time when she is ready to return to films, juggling her love for acting and hands-on parenting.
The Takeaway
Ileana D'Cruz's own journey underlines the fine line between career and parenting. By choosing hands-on parenting and taking the time to work through the emotional obstacles of motherhood, she presents an example to working parents everywhere. Her journey is compelling to fans on the basis of her acting ability, as well as for her open and honest approach to bringing up children and navigating the changes of life.
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