Pratik Gandhi Opens Up About Digital Parenting and Professional Balance
Actor Pratik Gandhi, widely recognized for his acclaimed performances in 'Scam 1992 - The Harshad Mehta Story', 'Madgaon Express', and 'Mitron', has candidly shared his experiences and anxieties as a parent navigating the complexities of the digital world. The actor recently participated in a special Netflix event focused on modern family dynamics, offering a grounded and insightful perspective on raising children in an era dominated by screens.
Active Engagement Over Simple Restriction
Gandhi, father to a 12-year-old daughter, emphasized that effective digital parenting requires active participation rather than mere restriction. He highlighted the importance of being involved in his daughter's digital consumption to foster a healthy understanding of content. "It's about context over control," Gandhi explained, detailing a practical approach he employs at home.
He shared a recurring conversation with his daughter, who often seeks his approval before watching content related to his work. "My daughter always asks me, 'Baba, whatever that you're shooting, is it okay if I watch?' So I tell her, if I sit with you, you can watch because I can set a context for you to understand," the actor revealed. This method allows him to guide her interpretation and ensure she grasps the nuances of mature themes.
Using Stories as a Communication Bridge
Beyond setting boundaries, Gandhi advocates for using content as a powerful tool for communication within the family. He believes that narratives can convey important messages without coming across as preachy. "Stories are the strongest tool that we have to communicate anything we want without sounding preachy," he stated. This philosophy helps bridge generational gaps and opens dialogues about complex subjects in an accessible manner.
The Constant Negotiation Between Actor and Father
The discussion also touched on how his role as a parent influences his professional choices. Gandhi admitted to a continuous internal negotiation between his artistic responsibilities and paternal concerns. "It's a constant negotiation that I keep doing with myself. As an actor, I'm not supposed to judge the character, I'm supposed to create it for people to interpret. But as a father, I do think about how my daughter and her friends will process it," he elaborated. This duality adds a layer of consideration to his career, balancing creative expression with familial impact.
Expert Insights on Raising Screen-Smart Families
The event, titled 'Raising Screen Smart Families', featured a curated panel including Gandhi alongside industry experts. Mahima Kaul, Director of Global Affairs at Netflix India, and Tanya Bami, Series Head for Netflix India, contributed perspectives on content creation and family viewing. Child psychologist Dr. Shwetambara Sabharwal provided professional insights into the psychological aspects of digital upbringing, reinforcing the need for mindful engagement.
This collective dialogue underscores a growing societal focus on developing healthy digital habits within families, moving beyond fear-based restrictions to foster understanding and open communication.
