Sunita Ahuja has embraced solitude in a way that many might find surprising. As the wife of Bollywood star Govinda, she spent years devoted to her family, raising her children and supporting her husband’s career. However, once her children became independent, she found herself navigating life in a different way—by learning to enjoy her own company. For the past 12 years, she has celebrated her birthdays alone, traveling to different places and following a ritual that balances devotion and celebration.
In a conversation with Curly Tales, Sunita shared her perspective on self-love and independence. She explained that she makes it a point to visit a temple, whether it is Mata Mandir, a Gurudwara, or the Pashupati Temple. After spending time in prayer, she indulges in a personal celebration by cutting a cake and opening a bottle of alcohol, enjoying the moment by herself. Her unique way of marking her birthday reflects a mix of spirituality and joy, something she has come to cherish over the years.
Addressing the importance of self-care, she emphasized that women often dedicate themselves entirely to their families, leaving little room for their own happiness. “You are born alone, and you die alone. You should live for yourself. That is what I tell everyone,” she said. Her words resonated with many, highlighting the need for individuals, especially women, to prioritize themselves without guilt.
While Sunita’s statements have sparked curiosity, they also align with expert views on solitude and self-reflection. Psychologists believe that spending time alone can be beneficial for mental well-being. Solitude allows individuals to reconnect with themselves, fostering self-awareness and emotional resilience. By choosing to celebrate her birthday in her own way, Sunita has demonstrated that solitude does not equate to loneliness but rather to personal empowerment.
Experts also stress that learning to enjoy one’s own company can enhance overall happiness. Dr. Meera Sharma, a clinical psychologist, explains that solitude can reduce stress, improve focus, and encourage personal growth. “Many people fear being alone because they associate it with loneliness. However, solitude can be a powerful tool for self-discovery. It gives a person the freedom to reflect on their journey, set new goals, and appreciate their own achievements,” she said.
For Sunita, solitude has become a choice rather than a necessity. She has crafted a lifestyle that balances her responsibilities with personal fulfillment. Her approach challenges societal norms that often define a woman’s happiness in relation to her family. By openly discussing her solo celebrations, she sends a message that self-love and independence should not be overlooked.
Her remarks also come at a time when rumors about her relationship with Govinda continue to circulate. However, she has remained focused on her own experiences rather than addressing speculations. By advocating for self-prioritization, she has encouraged others to reflect on their own lives and consider how they can nurture themselves emotionally and mentally.
Sunita’s journey serves as a reminder that happiness is not always dependent on external relationships. Whether through solo travel, personal rituals, or moments of introspection, individuals can find joy in their own company. For her, birthdays are not about grand celebrations with others but about embracing a balance of devotion and enjoyment, both of which bring her fulfillment.
Her words have struck a chord with many women who have dedicated their lives to their families without focusing on their own needs. By sharing her experiences, she has opened up a conversation about the importance of self-care and personal space. While family and relationships hold immense value, it is equally crucial to nurture one’s own happiness.
Sunita Ahuja’s story illustrates that solitude, when embraced with the right mindset, can be a source of strength. Her 12-year tradition of solo birthday celebrations is not an act of isolation but rather a testament to her confidence in her own company. As she continues to inspire others with her candid reflections, she proves that fulfillment comes not just from the love we receive but also from the love we give ourselves.
Sunita Ahuja’s approach to solitude also reflects a changing perspective on self-sufficiency, particularly among women of her generation. Traditionally, many women in Indian households have centered their lives around their families, often neglecting their own desires and aspirations. Sunita’s decision to travel alone and celebrate her special day in her own way marks a significant departure from these norms. It challenges the idea that a woman’s happiness must always be tied to her family’s presence or approval.
Her openness about her rituals also highlights the evolving conversation around self-care in modern society. More people are beginning to understand that being alone does not mean being lonely. It is about reclaiming personal time and making space for individual joy. Sunita’s routine of visiting temples and then enjoying a private celebration is a reminder that spirituality and fun do not have to be mutually exclusive.
Her journey also resonates with many women in long-term marriages, where individual identities sometimes become overshadowed by the role of a wife or a mother. By choosing to embrace solitude instead of feeling confined by societal expectations, she has redefined what it means to live life on one’s own terms. Whether through travel, personal rituals, or self-reflection, she has created a life where she does not rely on external validation for happiness.
Interestingly, Sunita’s candid take on her lifestyle also raises an important question: How many people truly take the time to celebrate themselves? In a world where social gatherings, family expectations, and career responsibilities often take precedence, personal milestones sometimes become secondary. Her approach suggests that setting aside time for oneself is not selfish but essential.
Her story is not just about birthdays or solitude—it is about redefining fulfillment. While many might expect celebrations to be grand and social, Sunita has shown that happiness is deeply personal. By choosing to spend her special day in a way that brings her peace and joy, she has demonstrated that self-love should always be a priority.