18th June 2023,Mumbai: Actor Nakuul Mehta, known for his progressive mindset, is determined not to let archaic ideas influence his parenting philosophy. In an inspiring conversation, he sheds light on his approach to raising his two-year-old son, Sufi, without confining him within the constraints of traditional masculinity.
Mehta emphasizes the importance of avoiding phrases like “Don’t cry like a girl” in front of his son. Together with his wife Janki, they have intentionally discussed this matter. While they strive to correct members of their extended family who inadvertently perpetuate such comments, they admit that they often face challenges in doing so.
Moreover, Mehta firmly believes in offering his son limitless choices and the freedom to explore his true self, especially during the ongoing Pride Month. In a society where men are often pressured to prove their manhood and women are expected to cater to fragile male egos, Mehta and his wife instill in their daughters the significance of balance, ambition moderation, and moderate accomplishments. They are determined to break this pattern for Sufi and encourage his emotional expression.
“We share our daily experiences with Sufi, including the moments when we have bad days or feel emotional,” explains the 40-year-old actor. “We want him to understand that even his grandparents can have challenging days. It’s alright for him to have his own bad days where he cries and feels irritable, and we fully support him in expressing himself.”
Recently, Mehta made waves on social media by posting a video of himself dancing in a skirt, a garment typically associated with femininity. The post garnered more than three million views on Instagram and sparked discussions about gender norms and inclusivity. While some individuals ridiculed Mehta for his choice of attire, the majority praised his courage and recognized the importance of embracing diversity and individuality, aligning with the spirit of Pride Month.
Mehta’s unwavering determination to challenge societal expectations extends beyond clothing choices. Even before the pandemic, he had participated in a photoshoot wearing gender-neutral attire, defying traditional ideas of what is deemed acceptable for men. According to Mehta, if he feels comfortable in a certain outfit, why should he let outdated notions restrict his self-expression?
Through his progressive parenting approach and public actions, Nakuul Mehta breaks stereotypes, nurtures his son’s individuality, and advocates for a more inclusive and accepting society. His commitment to raising Sufi in an environment free from the limitations of gender norms serves as an inspiration for parents and individuals alike, fostering a brighter and more diverse future.
-by Kashvi Gala