R Madhavan warns son Vedaant of his ‘privileged’ life: ‘You can’t be seen with your shirt off and sleeping in any bed’

While it’s usually actors who take pride in being recognized, R Madhavan feels an even greater sense of joy when fans appreciate his son, Vedaant Madhavan, an Indian freestyle swimmer. A five-time gold medalist at the Malaysian Open and a gold and silver medalist at the Danish Open, Vedaant has already made a name for himself in the sports world. However, in a recent conversation, Madhavan shared that while he is immensely proud of his son, he often reminds him that carrying his father’s name comes with added responsibility. He advises Vedaant to be mindful of his public image, as recognition also brings the burden of expectations.

Speaking to Miss Malini, Madhavan said, “It feels really proud when common man comes up and says, ‘we like your work, but we are so proud of you because of Vedaant’. It feels good but it also feels he is recognised very early on on his career and he has a long way to go. But I had to tell him that you know your life, unfortunately or fortunately, is going to be privileged because you’re my son.”

Talking about the responsibility that comes with being the son of a public figure, Madhavan further added, “I tell him, ‘You can’t be seen with your shirt off and sleeping in any bed because one photograph of you in that kind of pose is national news. They will say ‘daru peke sogeya (He slept drunk)’ or whatever. You can’t afford to be as fancy-free or footloose as your friends. You carry the burden of being recognised and being a role model.'”

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On the work front, Madhavan was last seen in Ajay Devgn-starrer Shaitaan, which was a box-office hit. He is set to reunite with his Tanu Weds Manu co-star Kangana Ranaut in an upcoming pan-India psychological thriller, helmed by Thalaivii director Vijay. Additionally, he is currently busy with the promotions of Hisaab Barabar, a satirical action-comedy starring Neil Nitin Mukesh and Kirti Kulhari in lead roles.