Kolkata (National Times): Actor and renowned cricket presenter Mandira Bedi has called for greater awareness and acceptance around adopting older orphaned children, highlighting that adoption should extend beyond just infants.
Speaking at a panel discussion titled “Normalising and Encouraging Adoption in India”, hosted by Sunfeast Mom’s Magic, Bedi emphasized the need to simplify adoption procedures and change prevailing mindsets that favor newborns over older children in the adoption system.
“Too many children go unnoticed just because they’re no longer babies,” she said. “Everyone dreams of holding a child from the very beginning, but what about those who have been waiting for years? They deserve families too.”
Bedi, who is both a biological and adoptive mother, shared her personal journey with adoption, stressing it was a long-held aspiration rather than a backup plan. “Even before I got married, I was clear—I wanted one biological child and one through adoption. It wasn’t a passing thought. It was a dream I carried with me from my early twenties,” she revealed.
She recalled the moment her daughter Tara entered her life at the age of four, describing the transition as deeply fulfilling. Drawing from that experience, Bedi shared a poignant memory of another child at the adoption center who had been selected for adoption three times but was returned each time due to unforeseen circumstances.
“It broke my heart,” she said. “That little girl still hadn’t found a permanent home. That’s the tragedy—we forget the older ones. But I’m here to say it works. With love, patience, and guidance, they become everything you ever hoped for.”
Reinforcing the idea that motherhood goes beyond biology, Bedi said, “It’s about intention, unconditional love, and lifelong commitment. Blood doesn’t define a parent-child relationship—heart does.”
Bedi, who has a son, Vir Kaushal, and daughter, Tara Bedi Kaushal, lost her husband Raj Kaushal in 2021. Over the years, she has made a mark in television with memorable roles in Aurat and Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, and was a familiar face hosting major cricket events including the ICC World Cups and the IPL.
With her heartfelt message, Bedi hopes to inspire more families to consider opening their homes—and hearts—to children who are often overlooked.
