In a candid and emotional revelation, popular Tamil actor Varalaxmi Sarathkumar has shared the complex journey of her family dynamics, detailing how she once held her stepmother, actor Radikaa, responsible for the separation of her parents. The actor, known for her powerful performances, opened up about the initial resentment and the subsequent healing that led to the strong, loving bond her blended family shares today.
From Blame to Understanding: A Daughter's Emotional Journey
During a recent appearance on the podcast hosted by her stepsister, Rayane R Mithun, Varalaxmi spoke unfiltered about the impact of her parents' divorce. She confessed that for a long time, she harboured hard feelings towards Radikaa. "You are tuned to think, 'Oh, she came and broke their marriage,'" Varalaxmi stated, reflecting on the common narrative she initially believed.
However, with time and maturity, her perspective shifted. She realized that Radikaa was not the cause of the split between her father, veteran actor Sarathkumar, and her mother, Chaya. Varalaxmi clarified that their marriage was already facing significant problems before Radikaa entered her father's life as a romantic companion. This understanding was crucial in dissolving her resentment.
The Role of Therapy and Forgiveness
Varalaxmi credited therapy with playing a significant role in her emotional healing process. She mentioned that she had "forgiven" her father Sarathkumar a long time ago, overcoming the anger she felt due to the separation and his subsequent remarriage. She now views her parents' decision as one that ultimately led to their individual happiness.
"Sometimes, two people just don't work together. For me, dad is dad. He's my biological father, and I have to respect him," she explained. She added that while there was childhood love and subsequent anger, things eventually settled down. "I think they both, for themselves, made a better decision because I think they are happier people because of those decisions," Varalaxmi said, showcasing a mature outlook on the past.
A United Family Front at Her Wedding
The strength of their reconciled relationships was beautifully displayed during Varalaxmi's elegant wedding to entrepreneur Nicholai Sachdev last year. The ceremonies were a testament to family unity, with both her mother Chaya and stepmother Radikaa actively participating and showering love on the bride. Her sister Pooja and stepsister Rayane were also at the forefront, highlighting the close-knit nature of the blended family.
Varalaxmi emphasized that this harmony was not achieved overnight. "Initially, Aunty (Radikaa) and I were not on the greatest of terms. Because I blamed her for my parents' separation," she recalled. "But as you grow up, you realise everyone is allowed to have their own choices. Now, I share a lovely relationship with Aunty, and she shares a lovely relationship with my mum as well."
Sarathkumar and Chaya were married in 1984 and parted ways in 2000. They are parents to Varalaxmi and her sister Pooja. Sarathkumar then married Radikaa in 2001. Radikaa, who had been through two divorces previously, has a daughter, Rayane, from her second marriage. Sarathkumar and Radikaa have a son, Rahhul, together. Varalaxmi's story is a powerful narrative of personal growth, forgiveness, and the modern Indian family's evolving bonds.
