The Name We Chose: Konkona Sen Sharma on Family, Identity, and A Modern Path

There’s a certain thoughtful candor about Konkona Sen Sharma, isn’t there? It’s something that shines through her performances, of course, but also in the way she navigates life, particularly when it comes to her family. And honestly, it’s refreshing to hear her speak so openly, so… humanly, about decisions that many might consider intensely personal, even private.

Recently, the acclaimed actress offered a rare, insightful glimpse into the reasoning behind her son, Haroon, carrying his father Ranvir Shorey’s surname. It wasn't, you see, a default choice or some unchallenged tradition. No, not for Konkona and Ranvir; this was a deliberate, joint decision, one steeped in a mutual understanding of what they wanted for their child.

“We decided to,” she simply stated, cutting through any potential speculation. The aim? To ensure Haroon had “a sense of belonging.” And truly, isn’t that what every parent hopes for their child? A firm foundation, a connection to their roots, even as they forge their own path. It's not just a name, you could say; it's an anchor, a piece of identity.

But wait, there’s more to it than just that. It's worth noting, and Konkona herself gently clarified, that Haroon’s full name does, in fact, include her own surname, Sen Sharma, alongside Shorey. This isn’t a case of one name superseding another; rather, it’s a beautiful amalgamation, a testament to both lineages. And she makes a really valid point here: in an ideal world, shouldn't a child carry both parents' names? It just seems fair, balanced, reflective of the two individuals who brought them into the world, doesn’t it?

This discussion naturally steered towards the pervasive, sometimes unchallenged, patriarchal norms that so often dictate such matters. Why is it, she mused, that a child is almost automatically given the father's surname, often to the exclusion of the mother’s? It’s a question that resonates, a gentle but firm push against the ingrained biases we so often overlook. Her honesty on this front? It’s truly empowering.

The shared surname is, in many ways, emblematic of their continued, harmonious co-parenting journey. Despite their divorce – they tied the knot in 2010, welcomed Haroon in 2011, and parted ways officially in 2020 – both Konkona and Ranvir remain deeply committed to raising their son together. We’ve seen glimpses of this on social media, delightful little peeks into family trips and everyday moments, shared without fanfare, just… life happening. Ranvir, too, has often shared pictures, proudly showcasing their united front for Haroon. It’s a modern family portrait, painted with understanding and mutual respect, and frankly, it’s a lesson for us all.

Ultimately, Konkona Sen Sharma’s revelation isn't just about a surname. It’s about conscious choices, about challenging societal expectations, and about prioritizing a child’s sense of self and belonging above all else. And for once, it’s a story not about celebrity drama, but about profound, relatable human decisions.