When Sushmita Sen Revealed She Had Chosen Daughter Renee’s Name Years Before Adopting Her

During a conversation with veteran actress Simi Garewal on her popular chat show, Sen recalled that she had settled on the name when she was just 18 years old. At the age of 24, she adopted Renee, beginning a journey into motherhood that she had envisioned long before meeting her daughter.

The Biwi No. 1 actress explained that she had imagined visiting children and calling out the name Renee, believing that the child who responded would be the one she would adopt.

Recalling the moment she met her daughter, Sen said Renee appeared sleepy and exhausted. However, when the name was called, the child opened her eyes, looked towards them and smiled.

“My logic was that I had to meet every single child and call her Renee. And the one who reacted would be my baby,” Sen recalled, describing how the little girl responded to the name.

She said Renee’s reaction felt special to her, reinforcing her conviction that she had found the child she wanted to bring into her life.

However, the adoption process took an unexpected turn when Sen was informed about the child's medical history. According to the actress, Renee had spent several months in hospital after birth and had experienced serious health complications, including acute gastroenteritis and bronchitis.

Sen recalled being told that the child's condition could have long-term consequences. The information, however, did not change her decision to adopt her.

The actress remained certain that Renee was the child she wanted to raise. She subsequently called her parents to share the news, telling them that she had found her daughter.

Reflecting on the emotional significance of adoption, Sen also spoke about the bond she hoped to build with Renee over time.

“For this child, she had no choice. She didn’t choose me; I chose her. But, down the line, I hope she chooses me back,” she said.

Sen’s account offered a glimpse into the thought process behind her decision to become a mother at a young age, as well as the determination with which she approached the adoption despite the medical concerns raised during the process.

Over the years, the actress has spoken publicly about motherhood and her experiences raising her daughters, Renee and Alisah. Her story continues to resonate with audiences for its emphasis on commitment, acceptance and the relationships that grow through parenthood.