GAUTAMI KAPOOR talks to SANGEETA YADAV about her role in Parvarrish 2 and the challenges of parenting
Tell us about your characterIJ
Simran is an independent working mother who leaves her children at home for work. Her husband Raj and daughter Riya motivate her to pursue her ambitions. Though I’m a very strict and disciplined mother in real life, but I’m not as interfering as Simran is.
What’s the USP of Parvarrish Season 2IJ
Its tagline Parvarrish Seekhte Seekhte He Aa Jati Hai says it all. As parents, we get to learn about parenting and bonding from our children. Parents need to be open. Instead of being authoritative, we need to be friendly and approachable. That’s what new-age parenting is.
How much is the show influenced from today’s timeIJ
Almost 90 per cent. Technology has reduced parental control over children. When we were growing up, we didn’t have any appendages. Today, we need a mobile phone to stay connected to our child. Also, today’s times are more unsafe.
lWhat has been your personal experience on parentingIJ
Children are not kids, they are mini adults. We’ve got to stay two steps ahead of them. Ram and I’ve never taken decisions without telling our children. When I decided to get back to work after eight years, my children didn’t feel insecure. They knew they can come to us with their problems anytime. They do have a say and mind of their own. We listen to them and then take a collective decision.
What’s your take on the portrayal of mothers on TVIJ
Today’s mothers have changed from what they were 30 years ago. Some shows are showing mothers in a regressive way but shows like ours will change the image of real mothers who are progressive, not doormats.
Does TV provide flexible hours and amenities to mothersIJ
Even though the producers want to give you an early exit, TV is so demanding that you don’t have a choice but to work for those 12 hours. That’s why I took such a long break. In today’s cut throat business, it’s not possible to get any concession.