Surat man latest to defy surrogacy laws, embrace parenthood

37-year-old Pritesh Dave from Surat has become the latest man to take on India's strict surrogacy laws and embrace the role of a single father by becoming the proud parent of twins.

Despite facing rejection in his quest for a life partner due to his lack of a government job, Dave refused to let societal norms define his happiness, according to a TOI report.

Dave's journey to parenthood took place just months before the implementation of new surrogacy laws, which restrict the option for single men, women, live-in couples, and same-sex couples. Infertility specialist Dr. Parth Bavishi explained that Dave is one of the fortunate few who managed to navigate the system before the changes took effect.


Expressing gratitude for his exceptional circumstances, Dave acknowledged his good fortune in achieving his dream of fatherhood. “I got lucky. A singleton like me cannot qualify for surrogacy now,” the proud father, a self-employed bachelor who spends his time between Surat, where his parents live, and Bhavnagar, where he runs a Grahak Seva Kendra for a nationalised bank, told TOI.

As a self-employed bachelor dividing his time between Surat and Bhavnagar, where he manages a Grahak Seva Kendra, he understands that his situation is now unique. The new regulations have closed doors for individuals like him who aspire to pursue surrogacy.

Dave highlighted the struggles faced by many men in his community who find it challenging to secure marriage proposals due to the preference for prospective partners with government jobs. Despite possessing land and property, he faced countless rejections. However, the arrival of his twins, Dhairya and Divya, has brought immeasurable joy to his family, and Dave recognizes the unwavering support of his mother in raising the children.

Although he may not have a life partner, Dave cherishes the blessing of having a loving family. Undeterred by the limitations imposed by the surrogacy laws, he remains grateful for the bond he shares with his children, stating that he wouldn't trade it for anything in the world.

Dr. Janki Bavishi, another infertility specialist, noted the growing interest among single men in pursuing surrogacy, inspired by the experiences of Bollywood celebrities such as Karan Johar and Tusshar Kapoor. However, the recent legal changes have dashed the hopes of these individuals who long to embrace parenthood through alternative means.

Pritesh Dave's remarkable journey as a single father serves as a reminder that love knows no boundaries and that the desire to create a family can overcome societal obstacles. His story stands as a testament to the profound impact of parenthood and the resilience of the human spirit.