Twinkle Khanna, the acclaimed author and columnist, has consistently advocated for honesty over idealism, particularly in the realm of parenting. In a recent candid interview, she delved into the nuances of embracing fallibility as a parent, bridging the generational divide with her children, and the critical distinction between authentic therapy and superficial social media soundbites.
Accepting Imperfection as a Parent
In an exclusive conversation with The Print, Twinkle Khanna reflected on a personal moment that underscored her philosophy of imperfect parenting. She recounted a disagreement with her daughter, Nitara Bhatia, aged 13, during a travel experience. "I was actually telling my daughter this and we had a disagreement. We were travelling. I was wrong, and she was right," Twinkle admitted. "I actually had to tell her that – do not expect me to be perfect. I am fallible. I am as imperfect as you are. I am a little more mature, little wiser, but I am not perfect. So, don't expect that from me. Accept me for what I am. And, I think that acceptance is what children need to have."
According to Twinkle, this approach of acknowledging mistakes fosters mutual respect rather than perpetuating unrealistic expectations from parents. She emphasized that such honesty helps build stronger, more authentic relationships within the family, allowing both parents and children to grow together without the pressure of perfection.
Therapy vs. Instagram Psychology
While stressing the importance of mental health support, Twinkle Khanna issued a caution against the trend of consuming online therapy content without proper guidance. "With this therapy talk, there's a little bit of danger because most people are not really going to therapy. They are looking at some sort of filtered version of therapy or Instagram and then repeating that new age babble, and that is dangerous," she explained.
She strongly believes in the value of professional therapy, stating, "I strongly believe that we all should seek therapy because it helps us navigate our own mind and issues, so we are better parents and children. But, this half baked Instagram psychology is a very dangerous thing." Twinkle advocates for genuine therapeutic practices over simplified social media snippets, highlighting the potential harm of misinformation in mental health discussions.
Tailored Dating Advice for Her Children
Twinkle Khanna, who shares two children with actor Akshay Kumar—son Aarav Bhatia, 24, and daughter Nitara Bhatia, 13—revealed how their contrasting personalities influence the relationship advice she offers. She emphasized that personality, rather than age or gender, plays a pivotal role in shaping her guidance.
For Aarav: "My son is a very kind person, very soft hearted, since he was a child. Not just dating, but even with friends and other people. I had to always tell him to have his boundaries because he is so generous, that can sometimes lead other people to take advantage." Twinkle advises him to be more assertive to protect his generous nature.
For Nitara: "With my daughter, I tell her she has to lower her boundaries. She is just 13 and she has to be a little less aggressive. So, whether it's dating or friendship, or it's just any relationships, that advice is pretty much the same. It's how you have to function in the world, not only with somebody who you have a romantic relationship with." She encourages Nitara to adopt a more approachable demeanor in her interactions.
Twinkle Khanna and Akshay Kumar tied the knot on January 17, 2001, in a private ceremony. They welcomed their son Aarav in 2002 and daughter Nitara in 2012, and have consistently shielded their children from the intense spotlight of the film industry, prioritizing their privacy and well-being.
