Anshula Kapoor reveals reason she decided to support Janhvi and Khushi after Sridevi’s death: ‘They were 17 and 20’; Why sibling bonds matter in grief

She added that she only truly began to know Janhvi and Khushi after this point, saying, “When we got to know each other from 2018 onwards, it was like a blank slate. It gave us time and space to know each other into who we are today, versus having preconceived notions or what the family has told us about each other.”

Anshula also praised her younger sisters for their resilience, particularly in dealing with grief so publicly. “They have evolved into two different individuals and strong women, and seeing them do that has been empowering for me. They have entered into cinema when social media is at its most volatile, when the trolls are louder than the praises that you get.”

Describing the present bond they now share, she concluded, “They also know that I am their older sibling, come what may. We don’t judge each other. The four of us, it’s a safe space for conversation.”

So, what role can siblings or extended family play in helping young adults cope with the loss of a parent?

Counselling psychologist Athul Raj tells indianexpress.com, “Losing a parent at 17 or 20 feels like being pushed into adulthood without a map. At that age, you are still relying on a parent for guidance, and suddenly that safety net disappears. Siblings or extended family cannot erase the grief, but they can soften its weight.” 

He adds that their role is to provide stability through small and consistent gestures such as checking in after a long day, eating together, or simply being present. What helps most is presence without pressure. 

 

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How can families rebuild or strengthen relationships in times of grief, especially when bonds were not very strong before?

Raj notes, “They can begin with ordinary acts like sharing meals, asking about daily routines, or showing up during difficult times. Acknowledging awkwardness rather than hiding it often makes the bond feel more authentic. Over time, consistency is what builds trust. It is not dramatic reconciliations that matter, but repeated reminders that someone is choosing to invest in the relationship. In grief, reliability often becomes the strongest expression of love.”

On balancing personal grief with external pressures

Grieving in public view is a harsh reality today. You are coping with personal loss while strangers comment on it. “The first step is to protect emotional boundaries. Muting, blocking or stepping away from digital spaces is an act of care, not avoidance. It can also help to ask a trusted friend to manage online interactions during vulnerable times. Most importantly, remember that grief is not a performance. It does not need to look composed or strong for the outside world,” emphasises Raj.