Abhishek Bachchan, a devoted father to 13-year-old Aaradhya Bachchan, recently shared his parenting philosophy, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a clear boundary between being a parent and a friend. While promoting his upcoming film Be Happy, where he portrays a girl dad, Abhishek opened up about why parents should avoid blurring these roles.
In an interview with NDTV, Abhishek shared his perspective, stating, “Be friendly with your child, but it’s very important to not be friends with your child. You are not their friend; you are their parent. You are the person they need to come to for guidance, protection, comfort, and love.”
He stressed that while children should feel comfortable confiding in their parents, they must also recognize the respect and authority that come with the parent-child dynamic. “There is a certain decorum, not just because I gave you life, but because I am responsible for raising you, caring for you, loving you, and providing for you,” he explained.
Highlighting the unwavering support that parents offer, Abhishek underscored the importance of being a reliable presence in a child’s life, someone they can turn to for guidance and reassurance. Summing up his stance, he reiterated, “It’s important to be friendly with your children, but you shouldn’t be their friend.”
Reflecting on his own relationship with his father, Amitabh Bachchan, Abhishek revealed that while they share a deep bond and can discuss anything, the dynamic remains one-sided. He emphasized that he would never cross a certain limit, always maintaining a respectful tone in their interactions, fully aware of his father’s stature.
Abhishek’s insights provide a thought-provoking take on modern parenting, reinforcing the need for balance, authority, and unwavering support in raising children.