Mahesh Bhatt recently opened up about his approach to parenting, explaining why he chooses not to interfere in how his children, including Alia Bhatt, navigate the challenges of the public eye. In a career spanning five decades, he has seen both immense praise and harsh criticism. Today, he observes his children navigating a similar landscape, often dealing with anonymous social media negativity. Despite this, he remained firm in his decision to step back.
In a recent conversation with Hindustan Times, Bhatt said, “I never give advice to my children. They are brighter than me. They belong to the terrain today. They will learn on their own. The ground will teach them. And that is the only teacher. Life is the only teacher, period.”
When asked about his protective instincts as a father, Bhatt explained the importance of allowing his children to handle public scrutiny independently. He mentioned, “I think the protection will make them cripples. No, let them taste the light, burn as we all do.”
Bhatt viewed the intense public scrutiny often directed at actors as an occupational hazard. He explained, “Fame has a price. If you stand in the sun, you will get sunburnt. The greatest teacher is life. So, I don’t tell my children about my life experiences and expect them to plot them on their life maps. Woh sahi bhi nahi hai (That is not right). Their lives are different, these times are different, and their journeys are different.”
Talking about the evolution of generations, Bhatt offered a broader perspective on parenting adults, saying, “Parents cannot hope that their children will apply their life lessons perfectly to their own lives. The time changes. The river changes as it flows, and you cannot cross the same river twice.”
On the work front, Alia Bhatt’s Alpha released in theatres today. Directed by Shiv Rawail and part of the YRF Spy Universe, the film also stars Sharvari, Anil Kapoor, and Bobby Deol.
Also Read: Alia Bhatt and Shaheen Bhatt celebrate father Mahesh Bhatt’s 75th Birthday with throwback pics
