Motherhood comes with plenty of advice, some helpful, some unsolicited. But when it comes to breastfeeding, the conversation has often been clouded by stigma, unrealistic expectations and the belief that every mother’s journey should look the same.
Over the years, a growing number of celebrity mothers have come forward to challenge those notions by advocating for better support systems, speaking up about the realities of breastfeeding and encouraging women to make choices that work for them.
As World Breastfeeding Week, observed from August 1 to 7, puts the spotlight on this year’s theme, “Breastfeeding for a Sustainable Start in Life: Strengthen What Works,” here’s a look back at the Bollywood actors who have helped keep the conversation going.
Dia Mirza Called For More Safe Spaces For Nursing Mothers
Image: Instagram/@Dia Mirza
Actor and environmentalist Dia Mirza has consistently highlighted that breastfeeding is not just a personal choice but also a public health issue. Speaking about the lack of support available to new mothers, she pointed out that many women, particularly those from marginalised communities, are often forced to breastfeed in unsafe and undignified conditions.
“I have become more acutely aware of the lack of safe spaces for new mothers, especially if they are socially and economically marginalised. Why have we never [highlighted] how hard it is for underserved mothers to feed their babies on construction sites, farms and roadside stalls without any privacy?”
Dia also drew attention to the stigma surrounding breastfeeding in public. Comparing India with countries where nursing in public is legally protected, she urged society to treat breastfeeding as a natural act rather than something that invites judgement.
She further cited the World Health Organization’s recommendation of exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months and stressed that India’s high rates of malnutrition and infant mortality make conversations around breastfeeding more important than ever.
Neha Dhupia Called For ‘Freedom to Feed’
Neha Dhupia has often spoken about the importance of breastfeeding and the need for better support systems for new mothers through her ‘Freedom to Feed’ campaign calling for better nursing facilities for new moms. Over the years, the actor has opened up about breastfeeding in public, the lack of nursing facilities and why mothers should never have to apologise for feeding their babies.
Image: Instagram/@Neha Dhupia
Sharing one such experience, she recalled, “Once when we were on an outdoor shoot, I had to go behind a tree to feed Mehr. The facility of nursing rooms should be made mandatory in public spaces.”
In another interview, she spoke about travelling alone with her three-month-old daughter and the challenges of finding a suitable space to breastfeed.
She shared, “I remember travelling alone with my three-month-old baby in a plane. At one point, I needed to turn around and ask, ‘Hey, can I get the bathroom for 15 minutes, because I need to feed my baby.’ Inside, I was sitting there and looking up at the fasten seat-belt sign, hoping fervently that the sign doesn’t come on before my child finishes her feed. I went in saying sorry and I came out saying sorry again for occupying the washroom for so long. My point is: Why do mothers have to be apologetic about something that is so right?”
Sameera Reddy Reminded Families That Mothers Need Support Too
Sameera Reddy has been one of the most vocal advocates for honest conversations around pregnancy, postpartum recovery and breastfeeding. During a previous World Breastfeeding Week, the actor shared an important message, not just for mothers, but for partners and families as well.
Image: Instagram/@Sameera Reddy
Addressing new fathers and loved ones, she urged them to become a mother’s biggest support system, explaining that breastfeeding is as much an emotional journey as it is a physical one. She also encouraged families to be patient and supportive, reminding them that a mother’s well-being is just as important as her baby’s.
Mira Rajput Kapoor Highlighted The Importance Of Breastfeeding
Mira Rajput Kapoor has spoken about breastfeeding on multiple occasions. After welcoming her second child, Zain, she reiterated the importance of breastfeeding, saying, “I have spoken about the importance of feeding the baby in the past too. I was extremely religious with Misha and I am going to do the same with my newborn. It is the greatest gift you can give your baby.”
Image: Instagram/@Mira Rajput
She has also spoken about the importance of new mothers eating well, getting enough rest and taking care of themselves while adjusting to life with a newborn.
Kalki Koechlin’s Cheers For Exclusive Breastfeeding
Kalki Koechlin has also been candid about her motherhood journey on social media. After welcoming her daughter Sappho in 2020 the actor had marked six months of exclusive breastfeeding with an honest and celebratory post.
“6 months of exclusive breastfeeding today! Phew brow wipe Happy breastfeeding week to all those who’ve trudged through this rough and beautiful road.”
Image: Instagram/@Kalki Koechlin
While awareness around breastfeeding has grown over the years, conversations around public breastfeeding, postpartum mental health, workplace support and the pressure placed on new mothers remain just as relevant.
As World Breastfeeding Week 2026 shines a spotlight on strengthening support systems for mothers, these conversations continue to serve as a reminder that breastfeeding isn’t just a mother’s responsibility, it requires understanding and support from families, workplaces and society alike.