Bollywood superstar Kajol, known for her vibrant personality and candidness, recently offered a heartwarming glimpse into her parenting philosophy, emphasizing her children Nysa and Yug’s strong sense of individuality. The proud mother, married to actor Ajay Devgn since 1999, shared how she and Ajay have nurtured two independent spirits, a feat she considers her greatest accomplishment as a parent.
In a recent interview, Kajol was asked about the bond her children share with her and Ajay. With her characteristic wit, she stated, “They are both my children, I want to tell you that. Ajay Devgn is stage pe nahin baitha hua hai. Bata du. So they are both, honestly, they are my kids, they are his kids, they are our kids. And I am very proud to say that they are very much their own people.”
This statement encapsulates Kajol’s belief in allowing her children to forge their own paths and identities. She further illustrated this by recalling an adorable exchange with her son, Yug. When she playfully asked him whether he wanted to resemble her or his father, Yug, with remarkable composure, responded, “I look like Yug. I am Yug.” Kajol revealed that this moment perfectly summarized the distinct personalities of her children. “I’m very, very happy to say that I’ve brought up two individuals who have their own personalities, who I hope I’ve taught to think for themselves. That’s been my biggest teaching as a parent.”
Kajol often reflects on how motherhood has transformed her. She candidly shared that the moment Nysa was born in 2003, she felt an immense sense of responsibility. “When Nysa was born, I felt like that’s one exam I can’t fail. I think my real-life performance has taken more out of me than any film will ever in my life demand of me.” This profound shift instilled in her a deeper understanding of patience and acceptance, qualities she admits she lacked before becoming a mother.
Despite their celebrity status, Kajol and Ajay have consistently strived to provide a normal upbringing for Nysa and Yug. Kajol has often spoken about the importance of allowing her children to make their own mistakes and learn from them. She believes that while she is always there to support them, true growth comes from navigating challenges independently. “While I am always there to back them up in any case, they should make their own mistakes and learn from them as well.”
Kajol also attributes her own “forward-thinking upbringing” by her mother, veteran actress Tanuja, as a significant influence on her parenting style. Tanuja’s ability to accept everything and everyone without prejudice, irrespective of “color, gender, or whatever,” instilled in Kajol the values of independence and open-mindedness, which she, in turn, has passed on to her children.
While Kajol might play the “bad cop” to Ajay’s “good cop” at times, she emphasizes that the ultimate goal is to raise well-rounded individuals who are confident in their own skin. Her reflections resonate with parents everywhere, highlighting the complexities and immense rewards of nurturing children who are truly “their own people.”