Some moments quietly change everything. For actress Mariyam Nafees, motherhood is one of them.
Known for bringing heart to every role she plays on-screen, she now steps into her most personal one yet—unscripted and transformative.
This Mother’s Day, Mindful spotlights Mariyam as she reflects on new beginnings, an evolving identity, and a kind of love she’s only just begun to understand.
Huge congratulations on becoming a mama! What has this journey into motherhood been like for you so far—emotionally, mentally, creatively?
Thank you so much! Alhamdulillah, I can’t thank Allah enough for blessing me with this handsome little guy. My pregnancy was smooth, and I’m grateful for that—so much so that I was able to work and travel until the very last week! It’s truly been an amazing journey.
You chose to embrace your pregnancy publicly. Why was it important for you to share that part of your life?
In our society, there’s a lingering taboo around pregnancy—“don’t show the bump,” “don’t talk about it,” “keep it concealed.” Honestly, I’ve never understood why. Pregnancy is such a miraculous experience, and I wanted to share that part of my life with my digital family. Beyond the love and duaas, so many women reached out to me, asking about my journey and sharing their own experiences. I really cherish that connection.
You’ve spoken about challenging cultural expectations around pregnancy—what kind of responses have you received, and what impact do you hope your openness will have on other women?
As I mentioned earlier, I wanted to break the taboo surrounding pregnancy. It feels incredible when women reach out, sharing their own experiences and telling me how something I’ve shared has helped them during their pregnancy or in preparing for it. Knowing that my openness has made a positive impact is truly fulfilling.
What moments of motherhood have taken you by surprise—in the most beautiful or unexpectedly meaningful ways?
Motherhood is such a surreal experience; it’s hard to put into words. Every day,
I find myself thinking, “Wow, we created this beautiful little bunny.” He’s so adorable, MashaAllah. But what truly takes me by surprise is the flood of emotions and love I’ve never felt before. The responsibility to be the best for him is overwhelming, and honestly, I would do anything just to see that smile of his.
And on the flip side, what have been the more difficult parts of this experience?Honestly, aside from the long labor, everything else has been smooth and wonderful, Alhamdulilah. I didn’t face any challenging pregnancy symptoms or postpartum depression, and I’m incredibly grateful to God and my support system for that.
What was your relationship with your own mother like growing up?
She was (and still is) my best friend and my forever go-to person.
In what ways has she influenced your journey into motherhood? Do you see her reflected in your parenting style?
She never pressured me to start a family, and I truly appreciate that about her. She’s always been incredibly supportive of my decisions, and because she’s been my best friend all my life, I hope to be that same kind of friend to Eesa.
It’s still a bit early to compare our parenting styles, but I’m definitely learning a lot from her. Honestly, I’m seeing a whole new side of her now with Eesa.
How has your relationship with her evolved since you became a mother yourself?
Since becoming a mother, I’ve found myself needing her more than ever for advice and emotional support. It’s natural, I think, for every daughter. I’ve started appreciating her even more now that I understand the complexities of motherhood myself.
How have you and your husband, Amaan Ahmed, navigated this transition together? Has it shifted your relationship in any way?
Amaan made sure I had the best experience during my pregnancy, and even now, he’s such a doting father that it truly melts my heart. Our relationship has definitely grown stronger, Alhamdulilah. Honestly, before Eesa, I thought we were at the best point in our relationship, but now it feels like this is the best point. Seeing Eesa fills us both with such pride.
How do you and him divide duties?
We don’t leave Eesa alone with the nanny. Either Amaan or I are always there to supervise. When he’s working, I’m with Eesa, and when I’m working, he’s with him. If both of us are working, Eesa comes with us.
Even though he’s a calm and happy baby, we make sure to give each other breaks so we can both rest and truly enjoy our time with him.
What does it mean to you to raise a son in today’s world—and how do you approach the responsibility of being a boy mom?
It’s such a huge responsibility raising a child, especially a son, in today’s world. We want to instill the same fundamental values and morals that our parents taught us—kindness, resilience, empathy, equality, inclusivity, and challenging stereotypes. Above all, we hope that people will see him and appreciate how well he’s been raised, InshaAllah.
Has becoming a mother influenced the way you approach your craft or the kinds of stories you feel drawn to tell?
Becoming a mother has definitely inspired me to tell certain stories, but I’ve always sought out scripts and characters that have a strong message—ones that contribute positively to society in some way.
Has your idea of success changed since stepping into motherhood?
Isn’t success subjective?
Looking ahead, what kinds of roles or projects are you excited to pursue post-baby?
I’m really excited to return to the screens with something fresh and different from what I’ve done before.
If your child were to read this interview one day, what’s one message you’d want to give him?
By the time this interview is published, you’ll be 2-3 months old, InshaAllah. I’ll have you read this when you’re old enough to understand.
From the moment you were born, I’ve loved you so deeply that it aches my heart. I’m so excited to see the person you’ll become, but please, don’t grow up too fast, okay? I’ll always be here for you, and I’ll fight the world for you.
Thank you for choosing me to be your Amma. Amma loves you with all her heart.
If you could sit down with a first-time mom-to-be, what would you tell her?
Enjoy every moment of it and remember to prioritize yourself along the way. Only then will you be able to fully focus on your little one and your family.
Any message for to-be-fathers and fathers?
Your partner is carrying your child, and while some pregnancies are smooth, many are incredibly tough. Then, she brings your little one into this world—she brings a life into the world. So, please appreciate her, care for her, and love her.
A happy mother leads to a happy child and family!
Finally, in this very moment—raw and real—what does motherhood mean to you?
Motherhood means selflessness, fulfillment, nurturing, and unconditional love. It’s about giving your all so your child can become the best version of themselves.
