‘I don’t have a maternal instinct’: Akanksha Chamola opens up about her divorce with Gaurav Khanna—What psychology says about women and motherhood

June 30, 2026 - 22:04

Actress Akanksha Chamola recently opened up about her divorce from Gaurav Khanna, and one statement in particular has sparked a wider conversation. She admitted, "I don't have a maternal instinct." The confession, shared in a candid interview, challenges a deeply rooted social expectation that all women naturally desire motherhood.

Chamola's honesty is rare in the public eye, where women are often judged for not conforming to traditional roles. She explained that the pressure to have children contributed to the breakdown of her marriage, as she felt no innate pull toward becoming a mother. "It was never a priority for me," she said, adding that she refused to have a child just to save a relationship.

Psychology offers a nuanced view on this. Experts note that "maternal instinct" is not a universal, hardwired trait. While biological factors like oxytocin play a role in bonding after birth, the desire to have children is heavily influenced by culture, personal history, and individual temperament. Many women simply do not experience a strong urge to nurture, and that is considered normal.

Chamola's story highlights a growing shift. More women are publicly rejecting the idea that their worth is tied to motherhood. By speaking out, she has given voice to those who feel alienated by the pressure to conform, reminding society that a woman's identity is not defined by her reproductive choices.