Shefali and her actor husband Parag Tyagi are ready to become parents now
Neha Maheshwri (BOMBAY TIMES; June 19, 2020)

Actor couple Shefali Jariwala and Parag Tyagi, who tied the knot in 2015, are eager to welcome a baby girl into their family. The two have initiated the formalities for adoption and are keeping their fingers crossed. For Shefali, adoption has been a childhood dream. She says, “I was around 12 years old when I understood the concept of adoption, and tab se hi mann mein ye khayal aa gaya tha ki I will adopt a child. There are so many children who need a good upbringing. I know that Parag and I will be good parents. Fortunately, we are in a position to raise them well, and give them the love, education and life they deserve. My desire became stronger when I was inside the Bigg Boss house.”

Shefali said, “Previously, there have been times when I developed cold feet, but during Bigg Boss, I had enough time to introspect and I became even more sure that this is what I want to do. I told Parag that it had to happen now. At some point, we may also have biological children. Never say never.”

While it has been her longstanding wish, it took time for Shefali to convince Parag and their respective families. She shares, “Like it happens in most families even these days, the first question our parents asked us was, ‘Why adopt when you can have your own?’ Initially, it was difficult to convince Parag as well. It was important for him to support me whole-heartedly, as we would be raising the child as a team. Today, both of us and our families are on the same page.”

The couple is a bit disappointed that the adoption process has slowed down owing to the ongoing Coronavirus crisis. Shefali says, “All the offices were shut during the lockdown. In any case, adoption is a long, meticulous process in our country; there is a lot of paperwork and documentation involved. It might actually take two-three years before you can bring the baby home. Parag and I have initiated the process. I know that it’s been delayed, but it will happen when it has to happen, because these things are destined. I have the faith and patience.”

For now, the actress is busy parenting and pampering their eight-year-old pug, Simba. “Oh yes! He is our son and he is quite a handful (laughs!),” she signs off.