Mahesh Babu Wife Namrata Shirodkar Reveals: “He Wanted a Non-Working Wife”

The enduring love story of Tollywood superstar Mahesh Babu and former actress Namrata Shirodkar is often held up as a beacon of commitment in the Indian film industry. Married since 2005 and parents to Gautam and Sitara, their relationship famously weathered a four-year wait for family approval. Now, a candid revelation by Namrata sheds light on a significant personal sacrifice made early in their marriage: stepping away from her flourishing acting career at Mahesh’s request.

How Did Namrata Shirodkar’s Career Change After Marrying Mahesh Babu?

Namrata Shirodkar, crowned Miss India in 1993, was a prominent figure in Hindi and regional cinema during the late 90s and early 2000s. Known for her roles in films like Kachche Dhaage, Vaastav: The Reality, Pukar, Astitva, and the international project Bride and Prejudice, she was at the peak of her career when she married Mahesh Babu. Post-marriage, Namrata vanished from the silver screen, choosing instead to focus entirely on her family.

In a revealing interview with celebrity journalist Prema, Namrata clarified the reason behind her abrupt departure from acting. She stated unequivocally that her husband, Mahesh Babu, desired a wife who did not pursue a professional career outside the home. “Mahesh was very clear that he wanted a non-working wife,” Namrata disclosed. She elaborated, emphasizing this was a fundamental expectation, “Even if I was working in some office, he would have told me to leave work. There are certain things we had for each other.” This decision, while marking the end of her acting journey, solidified her commitment to their partnership.

What Compromise Did Mahesh Babu Make for Their New Life?

While Namrata agreed to Mahesh’s condition regarding her career, she also had a significant request of her own regarding their living situation. Coming from a background of living in Mumbai apartments, the prospect of residing in the sprawling bungalows common to Hyderabad’s film elite was daunting for her. “I used to get scared,” she admitted.

Consequently, Namrata laid down a condition before moving to Hyderabad permanently. “We were very clear that we will live in an apartment first after marriage… That was my condition that if I’m going to come to Hyderabad, I will live in an apartment,” she recalled. Mahesh Babu, demonstrating his own willingness to adapt for their union, readily agreed. He moved out of the family bungalow and into an apartment with his new wife, easing her transition into her new life and city.

How Long Did It Take Mahesh Babu to Win Family Approval?

The path to their wedding altar was far from smooth. Mahesh Babu and Namrata Shirodkar first met on the sets of the Telugu film Vamsi. An initial connection during the film’s mahurat (launch) blossomed into deep love by the time filming concluded. However, societal and familial expectations, particularly concerning their different backgrounds, presented a major hurdle.

Speaking to Spotboye in a past interview, Namrata recounted the challenging four-year period before their marriage. “It was very important for Mahesh to convince his family that I was the right wife for him. For four years, I just had to wait,” she shared. The separation during this time was difficult, marked by anxiety, but their resolve was unwavering. “We hardly met during those four years… All I had to do was wait for Mahesh to win over his family… I was sure I wanted to marry only Mahesh. If not him, then no one else. And he was sure of it too,” she stated, highlighting the strength of their bond during the prolonged courtship.

Must Know

1. Why did Namrata Shirodkar quit acting?
   Namrata Shirodkar quit acting after marrying Mahesh Babu because he explicitly desired a “non-working wife.” She stated that this was a clear expectation from him, applicable even if she held a non-film job.
2. How did Mahesh Babu and Namrata Shirodkar meet?
   The couple first met on the sets of the Telugu film Vamsi. Their initial connection at the film’s mahurat ceremony grew into a deep romantic relationship during the production.
3. How long did Mahesh Babu and Namrata date before marriage?
   Mahesh and Namrata faced a significant four-year wait before they could marry. This period was necessary for Mahesh to gain his family’s approval for their union, during which time they had limited contact.
4. Where do Mahesh Babu and Namrata Shirodkar live?
   While they reside in Hyderabad, Namrata initially insisted on living in an apartment after marriage due to her comfort with Mumbai’s apartment lifestyle, a condition Mahesh agreed to before moving into their family home.
5. What films is Namrata Shirodkar known for?
   Before quitting acting, Namrata Shirodkar starred in notable Hindi films including Kachche Dhaage, Vaastav: The Reality, Pukar, Astitva, and the international production Bride and Prejudice.
6. Do Mahesh Babu and Namrata Shirodkar have children?
   Yes, Mahesh Babu and Namrata Shirodkar are parents to two children: a son named Gautam and a daughter named Sitara.

Mahesh Babu and Namrata Shirodkar’s journey, marked by mutual sacrifices like her career pause and his move to an apartment, alongside overcoming a four-year familial hurdle, stands as a powerful testament to enduring love and partnership in the demanding world of Indian cinema. Their story continues to resonate with fans two decades later.