Parenting styles may have evolved across generations, but discussions about raising children continue to resonate universally. In a recent episode of Soha Ali Khan's podcast 'All About Her,' veteran actor Neetu Kapoor opened up about her perspectives on contemporary parenting. She shared her thoughts on how Alia Bhatt and Ranbir Kapoor are raising their daughter Raha, and revealed what concerns her most as a grandmother.
Neetu Kapoor on the New Norms of Parenting
Speaking about generational differences in parenting, Neetu Kapoor remarked, 'I think times are different.' Acknowledging that parenting approaches have transformed with changing eras, she stated, 'I did whatever best I could do in my times... and now today because times have changed they are the best parents they know what to do.' She further emphasized that she refrains from interfering in her children's parenting choices, explaining, 'I don't want to interfere, I just want to be a good grandmother.'
How Alia Bhatt and Ranbir Kapoor Raise Their Daughter Raha
Discussing her granddaughter Raha, Neetu Kapoor revealed that the little one shares distinct dynamics with her parents. 'Raha listens to Alia Bhatt, and Alia is a great mother. Ranbir Kapoor, you know, he is a friend!' she said. Neetu further shared that while Raha enjoys playful moments with Ranbir, Alia takes on a more disciplined role, focusing on healthy habits. 'She's teaching her the right things and you know... no TV and no this no that...' Neetu said, referring to Alia's mindful parenting approach.
Recalling their lighthearted disagreements over spoiling Raha, Neetu laughed and said, 'I'm always fighting with her... ek chocolate dene de...' However, according to her, Alia firmly believes in limiting sugar for children and replies, 'No, can you understand sugar is not good for her.' Like many grandparents, Neetu admitted she enjoys pampering her granddaughter. 'I say it's okay na, I'm the grandmother. Let me spoil her,' she added humorously.
What Scares Neetu Kapoor for Her Grandchildren
Neetu Kapoor's primary concern in today's digital age is social media. 'Social media is scary,' she said. 'Today there's more awareness. In my time there was no awareness of no TV, no sugar,' she added, noting that her children, Ranbir Kapoor and Riddhima Kapoor Sahni, watched television daily. According to Neetu, much of today's parenting anxiety stems from the rise of social media and excessive screen exposure. 'I think it's social media which is scaring them. Because you get so addicted to that screen,' she explained. Expressing concern over the digital world's impact on children, she further added, 'It's so scary what all can happen on social media.'
Neetu Kapoor Feels a 'Nani' Shares a Closer Bond with Children
Neetu Kapoor also shared her thoughts on the unique bond grandparents share with children. According to her, a maternal grandmother or 'nani' often becomes emotionally closer to a child than a paternal grandmother or 'daadi.' Explaining her perspective, Neetu said the connection naturally becomes stronger because 'the mother is always talking about her mother with her child.'
Neetu Kapoor on Giving Married Children Space
Speaking further about family relationships, Neetu Kapoor emphasized the importance of giving children space after marriage. She shared that parents should learn to step back and allow their married children to build their own lives independently. 'I feel when your children get married, you have to leave them alone,' she said, adding, 'I want to give them their space.' Stressing on respecting boundaries, Neetu further remarked, 'Their privacy is their privacy.'
