Vikrant Massey reveals he took a break from movies for his son Vardaan out of paternal guilt: 'Didn't know it will become national news'

When Vikrant Massey announced in December 2024 that he was “returning home” and stepping away from work, the news caught many off guard. His statement quickly led to widespread speculation, with discussions ranging from the challenges faced by outsiders in the film industry to the ongoing nepotism debate. However, the actor later revealed that the reason behind his decision was deeply personal—his newborn son, Vardaan, and what he described as “dad guilt.”Vikrant reflected on that phase of his life. He said in an interview with Parineeti Chopra for her show Mom Talks, “I never in my wildest dreams thought that my decision to take a break from work for my son would become national news. When Vardaan was born, by the grace of God, I was extremely busy. The first reason I wanted to step back was my physical and mental exhaustion. 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. I have said this before, I was feeling a little lonely. There was a void.” He also shared a moment that made him realise he needed to slow down. “I remember when he had gone to his nani’s (grandmother) house and had just begun trying to say ‘papa.’ He couldn’t pronounce it, but he blew air. That’s when it struck me—it was time to go back home. Two months later, I made the announcement. This has become the biggest earning of my life—I have received more than I ever wanted.”Opening up about fatherhood, Vikrant added, “Compared to a mother, we dads don’t even do one-fourth. But 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. We end up calling every 30 minutes just to see the baby’s face. I just want to tell new fathers—it’s okay to feel vulnerable and want to go back home.”Sharing her perspective, Sheetal spoke about how motherhood—and fatherhood—has transformed Vikrant. “I have seen a changed man, though I can’t pinpoint when it happened. He moves through the world like a father now. I have seen him as a boy, my boyfriend, fiance, and husband—but now, when I look at him, I see a dad. He has truly become a father.”Back in December 2024, shortly after the release of The Sabarmati Report, Vikrant had taken to social media to explain his decision. “Hello, the last few years and beyond have been phenomenal. I thank each and every one of you for your indelible support. But as I move forward, I realise it’s time to recalibrate and go back home—as a husband, father, and son, and also as an actor.”He further wrote, “So, coming 2025, we will meet one last time—until time deems it right again. Two more films and many years of memories. Thank you again, for everything and everything in between. Forever indebted.”Vikrant and Sheetal welcomed their son Vardaan in February 2024. The actor was last seen in films like Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyaan and O’Romeo.