Shubhangi Atre on life after divorce: There’s a newfound sense of freedom

Shubhangi Atre, who had been living separately from her husband, Piyush Poorey, a digital marketing professional, for the past two years, was granted a divorce on February 5, ending their 22-year marriage. Reflecting on how difficult the decision was, Shubhangi shares, “It was painful. I was fully invested in the relationship. That’s the kind of person I have always been. Over time, Piyush and I developed irreconcilable differences. However, now, I’m out of that marriage, and I feel a sense of peace as if a heavy burden has been lifted. There’s a newfound sense of freedom, and it’s hard to put these emotions into words. Now, I want to focus on my daughter, Ashi, and provide her with a happy and secure environment.”
‘The biggest lesson I’ve learnt is never to depend on someone else for your happiness’
Talking about the one lesson she learnt from the relationship, the Bhabiji Ghar Par Hai actress says, “The biggest lesson I’ve learnt is never to depend on someone else for your happiness. If you keep waiting for others to fulfill your needs, you’ll find that life passes you by, and in the end, you’ll be left with regret. When you’re content from within, the people around you will feel that positivity too.”
As a mother, she is mindful of Ashi’s relationship with her father. She says, “It’s entirely up to Ashi. If she wishes to meet her father, she can. I’ll never get in the way of that. Our separation has been handled amicably, and we remain cordial. I’ve taken full responsibility for her education and everything else. I’ve never asked my husband or his family for anything.”

‘My daughter, my family and my wonderful friends are my strength’
While her marriage has ended, Shubhangi has not lost her belief in love. She says, “I’ve been fortunate to
witness a truly successful marriage — my parents’ love for each other has endured for over 50 years. I believe love is timeless, and as social creatures, we all need someone. In my life, that someone is my daughter, my family and my wonderful friends. They are my strength.”
‘Not in a rush to get into a relationship’
Shubhangi shares, “Right now, I’m not rushing into anything. Coming out of one relationship has already been so difficult. I don’t want to force anything, and I’m not sure if I could trust someone again so soon. For now, I’m simply enjoying my solitude and going with the flow.”
On the work front, the actress will be seen in the film version of her TV show Bhabiji Ghar Par. Shubhangi, who has been portraying Angoori Bhabhi for the past nine years, shares, “I don’t think I could ever get bored of playing Angoori Bhabhi. The role allows me to explore comedy and indulge in dance, which is as much a passion for me as acting. I’m also excited that it’s turning into a movie, and I’ve already begun shooting for it.”