Devoleena Bhattacharjee shares emotional milestone as son Joy takes first steps
Synopsis
Devoleena Bhattacharjee's emotional reel of her son Joy's first steps has reignited conversation about celebrity motherhood and career choices. The 'Saath Nibhaana Saathiya' star's candid messaging—that motherhood deserves 500% commitment—stands in contrast to industry pressure on women to 'bounce back' immediately. Her deliberate choice to pause acting signals a quieter but firm statement: some milestones cannot be outsourced.
Key Takeaways
Devoleena Bhattacharjee shared a video of her son Joy taking his first steps on 4 May 2025 .
She married Shanawaz Shaikh on 14 December 2022 ; Joy was born in December 2024 .
Devoleena has paused her acting career to focus on motherhood, addressing 'return to work' questions in March 2025 .
She stated motherhood deserves 500% commitment , not just 100%, during the early years.
The actress plans to resume acting when the time is right, but prioritises her son's needs now.
Television actress Devoleena Bhattacharjee shared an emotional moment on social media on 4 May as her son Joy achieved the milestone of taking his first steps. The 'Saath Nibhaana Saathiya' star posted a video capturing the moment, reflecting on the bittersweet nature of watching her child grow increasingly independent.
A Mother's Mixed Emotions
Devoleena revealed that witnessing her son's progression fills her with conflicting feelings — joy tempered by the realisation that he needs her hands less with each passing day. "You realize your baby doesn't need your hands anymore… Today he took his first steps…and I stood there—smiling, crying, and silently wishing time would slow down," she wrote on Instagram.
The actress emphasised that no professional achievement compares to the feeling of motherhood. "No award, no success, nothing compares to this feeling. Just a mother… watching her whole world grow up in front of her," she added in her post.
Joy's Arrival and Family Timeline
Devoleena married Shanawaz Shaikh on 14 December 2022 in a private ceremony. The couple welcomed their first child, Joy, in December 2024. The actress has been vocal about prioritising motherhood over professional commitments during this phase of her life.
Choosing Motherhood Over Work
In March 2025, Devoleena addressed recurring questions about her career hiatus through a lengthy social media note. While acknowledging her lifelong commitment to her craft, she explained her current focus on full-time parenting. "Work has always been a big part of my life, and I've always believed in giving 100% to whatever I do. But today, life has given me a role that asks for even more. Motherhood," she wrote.
She elaborated that the early years of her son's life warrant undivided attention. "These are the moments I once prayed for. The little giggles, the tiny milestones, the comfort my child finds in my arms. If I've always believed in giving my best to everything in life, then motherhood deserves not just 100%… it deserves 500%," Devoleena stated.
Return to Acting on Her Terms
The actress made clear that her career pause is temporary and intentional. She signalled that when circumstances align, she intends to resume acting. "Right now, my son needs me more than anything else. And choosing to be present for him is a decision I make with love and without any apology," she concluded, positioning her choice as one rooted in maternal priority rather than permanent retirement from the industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
What milestone did Devoleena Bhattacharjee's son Joy achieve?
Joy took his first steps on 4 May 2025. Devoleena shared a video of the moment on social media, reflecting on the emotional significance of watching her son grow more independent.
When was Devoleena's son Joy born?
Joy was born in December 2024. Devoleena and her husband Shanawaz Shaikh welcomed their first child after marrying on 14 December 2022.
Why has Devoleena Bhattacharjee stepped back from acting?
Devoleena has chosen to prioritise motherhood during Joy's early years, stating that the milestone moments and her son's need for her presence outweigh professional commitments. She addressed this decision in March 2025 via social media.
Will Devoleena return to acting?
Devoleena has indicated her return to acting is not permanent. She stated she will resume work when the time is right, but currently believes her son needs her full attention.
What did Devoleena say about balancing motherhood and work?
Devoleena wrote that while work has always been important to her, motherhood demands even more. She stated that if she gives 100% to her career, motherhood deserves 500% of her commitment, especially in the early years.
