Vikrant Massey opens up on dad guilt, a reason behind his break from films

Actor Vikrant Massey took a break from films in December 2024 to focus on his family, especially his son Vardaan. He emphasised the emotional journey of fatherhood and encouraged new dads to embrace their vulnerability.

In Short

• Vikrant Massey paused acting to spend time with newborn son Vardaan
• He shared his emotional struggle with dad guilt on Mom Talks
• Vikrant described exhaustion from juggling work and family commitments

Actor Vikrant Massey surprised fans in December 2024 when he announced a break from films to focus on his family. The announcement sparked speculation about industry pressures and nepotism debates. However, Vikrant has now clarified that his decision was personal, centred on his son, Vardaan, and feelings of "dad guilt."

Vikrant explains career break

Vikrant, along with his wife Sheetal Thakur, discussed their journey into parenthood on Parineeti Chopra’s show Mom Talks. He revealed that his busy schedule around Vardaan’s birth led to physical and mental exhaustion, prompting him to prioritise family time.

He explained, "You know how much we give of ourselves emotionally, physically, mentally. As a first-time father, my attention was always at home. I didn’t even question what or why I was doing. I just wanted to wrap up my commitments and spend as much time as possible with Vardaan and Sheetal Thakur." Sheetal added that Vikrant was experiencing "dad guilt," reflecting his deep emotional struggle.

Vikrant recalled a touching moment when his son tried to say "papa" for the first time during a visit to his grandmother. Although Vardaan could only blow air, the moment made Vikrant realise it was time to be fully present at home. Two months later, he announced his break from work, calling this decision the "biggest earning of my life."

Vikrant Massey on fatherhood

Reflecting on fatherhood, Vikrant pointed out that fathers often do less than mothers but still undergo significant emotional changes after a child’s birth.

He noted, "Just like new mothers, new fathers also feel strange stepping out, leaving their baby behind. There’s a conditioning that men must be the providers – that’s what pushes us out of the house. It’s natural to envy the one who gets to stay back." He encouraged new fathers to accept their vulnerability and desire to be with their children.

Vikrant Massey and Sheetal Thakur welcomed their son Vardaan in February 2024.

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