When Neha Dhupia took a stand against sexualisation of breastfeeding: ‘The last thing we need is to be questioned, mocked and trolled’ |

Breastfeeding in public is still seen as a taboo in many countries, including India, despite efforts to normalize it. Actor Neha Dhupiaknown for sharing her parenting struggles with her daughter Mehr, has been actively working to break this stigma through her initiative, ‘Freedom To Feed’.
Neha Dhupia recently posted a powerful message on her Instagram and the Freedom To Feed page, addressing and criticizing those who view breastfeeding mothers in a sexualized way.
“The journey of a new mum is something only she can understand. While we all hear the happy side, it is also a huge responsibility and emotionally draining. It’s hard enough to be a mum and do all that there is to do,” the caption read.The post featured a black-and-white photo of Neha Dhupia breastfeeding her daughter, along with a screenshot of a conversation where digital creator Anandita Agrawal was shockingly asked for one of her breastfeeding videos.
“The last thing we need is to be questioned, mocked and worst of all trolled. I went through the same beats and I know how hard it is. Thank you @crazylilmum for sharing this and calling this individual out,” the caption continued.
It stated that “a mother has her choice of how and where she chooses to feed or breastfeed her child”.
“However, time and time again we see people looking at breastfeeding mothers in a sexual manner. @freedomtofeed We work each day towards normalising the act of breastfeeding in our communities and are extremely sensitive towards new mothers and parents and as we think everyone should be.”
“This insensitive comment is an example of why it makes it awkward for moms in our country. They must be called out…” the post read.

Neha Dhupia, who gave birth to her daughter Mehr in 2018 with her husband Angad Bedihad earlier shared the challenges she faced in finding “secure spots” to breastfeed her child.
In an interview with Mid-Day in 2019, Neha had shared her experience of breastfeeding Mehr during an outdoor shoot, where she had to go behind a tree to nurse. She emphasised the need for mandatory nursing rooms in public spaces, noting that many mothers stop breastfeeding early due to work commitments. She felt fortunate that her team was supportive while she breastfed on set.