Actor Nakuul Mehta, known for his roles in popular television series, is extending his influence beyond the screen by advocating for the importance of teaching children self-worth. Mehta, a father of two, is actively sharing his parenting philosophies, emphasizing the need to instill a strong sense of self-esteem in kids from a young age.
Mehta's approach stems from a deep understanding of the pressures and complexities that children face growing up in today's world. He believes that a solid foundation of self-worth is crucial for navigating these challenges and fostering resilience. "It's about making them part of your world, valuing their opinions, and letting them know they are capable and loved, regardless of their achievements," Mehta recently stated in an interview.
One of the key aspects of Mehta's parenting style is open communication. He encourages parents to create a safe space where children feel comfortable expressing their feelings and thoughts without fear of judgment. Mehta emphasizes active listening and validation of their emotions, teaching children that their feelings are valid and worthy of attention.
Mehta and his wife, Jankee Parekh Mehta, navigate modern parenting with grace and a modern approach. In a candid conversation on their podcast, "The Indian Parent Pod Sufi and Folks," the couple discussed the challenges of being the less favored parent. Mehta shared a relatable experience where his son, Sufi, sought comfort from his mother, Jankee, a situation many parents can empathize with. Jankee shared their strategy to ensure Sufi wants to spend time with his father as much as he does with her. She intentionally takes a step back from certain activities, allowing Mehta to step in and create special father-son moments.
Mehta is a proponent of breaking down traditional gender stereotypes in parenting. He actively avoids using phrases like "don't cry like a girl" in front of his children, aiming to create an environment where they feel free to express themselves authentically. He believes that boys should not be pressured to prove their masculinity and that vulnerability should be embraced by all.
Furthermore, Mehta champions the idea of "Dal-Chawal Parenting," a philosophy centered around simplicity, balance, and groundedness. He describes it as a mix of everything: setting boundaries and deciding how much "spice" to add. He feels there is no one way to do parenting, but finding a balance and making that your style is "Dal-Chawal Parenting". This approach emphasizes being present, fully engaged, and nurturing, creating a warm and secure environment for children to thrive.
Nakuul is also not shy about discussing mental health. He acknowledges that everyone faces mental health challenges to varying degrees and stresses the importance of normalizing these conversations. He encourages open dialogue about the challenges, and feels it is very important to have a conversation around challenges.
Mehta's advocacy extends to promoting positive self-image and body positivity. He encourages parents to teach their children to appreciate their unique qualities and to focus on inner strength rather than external appearances. By fostering a sense of self-acceptance, children are better equipped to resist societal pressures and develop a healthy relationship with themselves.
Nakuul Mehta's message is clear: instilling self-worth in children is not just about making them feel good; it's about equipping them with the tools they need to navigate life's complexities, build resilience, and ultimately, thrive as confident and compassionate individuals. By sharing his personal experiences and insights, Mehta is inspiring parents to prioritize their children's emotional well-being and to create a world where every child feels valued and empowered.
