In an emotional and heartfelt conversation on Mother’s Day, Devanggana Chauhan opened up about the woman who shaped her life — her late mother, whose strength, discipline and unconditional love continue to inspire her journey even today.
Known for her work as an actor, anchor and radio jockey, and for hosting major television events and glamorous red carpets, Devanggana revealed a deeply personal side as she reflected on childhood memories, sacrifices and the emotional void left behind after losing her mother to cancer.
“In one sentence, she’s been my biggest motivator in life,” Devanggana said while describing her relationship with her mother. The actress recalled how her mother believed in earning every reward through hard work and determination. “She always told me — if you want to do something in life, just do it. Don’t wait for the right moment, right people or the right vibe,” she shared.
Even simple childhood desires came with lessons in discipline. “If I wanted a pencil box, I had to score good marks. When I asked for my first mobile phone, she told me I’d get it only after securing first division in my board exams. I think I worked harder for that phone than for the studies,” she said with a laugh.
Devanggana also fondly remembered her mother’s artistic side. “She was super talented — into Bombay Art and dancing. Before her illness, she used to help me prepare for inter-school dance competitions and practice with me for hours. Those are memories I truly cherish.”
The actor revealed that she was only in Class 6 when she first learned about her mother’s cancer diagnosis. Despite the challenges, her mother continued to fill their home with positivity and warmth. “We used to make handmade greeting cards for her on Mother’s Day. My younger brother and I would make sandwiches and try not to let her work that day,” she recalled. Speaking about realising her mother’s sacrifices, Devanggana admitted that understanding came much later in life. “When parents stop you from doing certain things, you feel rebellious. But after her death, I truly realised the amount of sacrifices she made for me and my younger brother.”
The emotional conversation became even more touching when she spoke about what she wishes she had told her mother more often. “I wish I had told her every day that I love her so much and that I need her around me. Whatever I am today is because of her upbringing. She made me incredibly strong,” she said. For Devanggana, Mother’s Day remains deeply emotional even now. “When I see everyone celebrating with their mothers, it becomes overwhelming. I usually switch off my social media and keep my phone aside. But now, I celebrate the day with my grandmother,” she shared.
