Actress Karisma Kapoor’s book on motherhood is inspired by her own experiences. She chatted with Divya Kaushik on topics like changes in child behaviour, problems modern mothers face and how to handle nannies
If nothing else, Karisma Kapoor has realised that her ishq with comeback films has indeed been dangerous and she would rather hedge her bets on a more diversified role of a celebrity endorser.
So we keep listening to her on radio, suggesting tips on what to wear. We see her in stores sharing beauty tips, on TV recommending healthy food and now as a consultant on motherhood, courtesy a new book. My Yummy Mummy Guide (Shobhaa De Books, Penguin Books India) is her first time attempt at writing on motherhood.
She says she was chosen for the same and used it as an opportunity to share her experiences from pregnancy to being a mother of two children, Samaira and Kiaan. “I thought it was an unusual idea and being an actor you hardly get such a chance. I am already a radio jockey and women across the country are loving me in that role.
So I thought that it is time to graduate to another level and reach the women in a new avatar. I agreed and then started the process of penning my personal experiences mixed with opinions and suggestions,” shared the actor and called her book, “a fun, warm and an interesting read for mothers of all age groups.”
The actress has well factored in the physical and psychological problems that modern mothers face. “It is for mothers in their 20s, 30s and 40s. It talks about the changes that motherhood brings in life and how they should be tackled. Patience is the key. You should just enjoy the phase and try to adapt to the situation,” suggested Karisma and added that working women should get their priorities right and strike a balance. “Most modern mothers face this situation, how to handle work and children together.
But from my personal experience I can suggest that if you know what is your priority it will be easier for you and people around you. With changing times, there is a change in children behaviour and attitude as well. The book covers this important subject and shares if one should be only a parent or a friend to a child. I would say there should be a balance and you should no when to act as a parent and when as a friend,” added Karisma, who is known for portraying strong women characters in movies like Zubeida and Shakti: The Power.
Since she has started giving style tips on radio, wherever she goes she is surrounded by women who wants to have some health and style tips. “I understand that women face a lot of pressure to look good and this pressure is manifold post-pregnancy. After giving birth to my first baby I thought to myself that I would automatically reduce the flab. Most women think that. But it takes time and during that time women should appreciate what they are and how they look. It takes some time to reduce the post-pregnancy weight, there’s nothing miraculous about it. Gradually one should start exercising and get used to eating right and healthy,” she said.
In the book, there’s also an advice on finding the perfect maternity outfits, decorating your children’s rooms and planning the most stylish kiddie parties. “And one most important thing that I have incorporated in the book is how to find a right nanny. Dealing with maids is a big issue most mothers face. So there are tips on how to be gentle with them, train them as per your choices and needs and how to work control on them,” she added.
The actress said that her new role as an author has given her immense satisfaction. “It is good to share your views. This just happened, only after seeing the response to it, I will plan another book,” said the actress, who herself prefers reading books written in simple and easy language.