When Anushka Sharma felt she and Virat Kohli were not ‘perfect parents' to Vamika and Akaay: ‘There is so much pressure'

Time of India

4 days ago

and
are not only one of the most loved celebrity couples in India, but they also set major family goals. While fans admire their romance and support for each other, many also look up to how they balance busy careers with raising their two children, daughter
and baby son Akaay.
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But as Anushka revealed in a candid chat during an event in Mumbai back in September 2024, being parents isn't always picture perfect. In fact, she made it clear that she and Virat are just like any other mum and dad — doing their best, learning on the go, and admitting that yes, it's hard sometimes.
'We are not perfect parents'
The 'PK' actress didn't hold back when talking about the kind of pressure parents feel these days to get everything right.
She said, "There is so much pressure to be like this perfect parent. We are not perfect parents, we will complain about things, and it is okay to admit it to them also. So, they know that you are flawed. Imagine kids having to live up to, 'Oh my parents are like this'. So owning your mistakes makes it easier.
"
No time for fancy dinners
Being hands-on parents to two small children has meant big changes in their lifestyle, especially their social life.
Anushka admitted, "I can only hang out with people who do the same and that's very few people. So social life, you can forget about it. People invite us to dinner and I am like (makes a confusing expression)... You are probably eating a snack at the time we eat our dinner. Some day, occasionally you have to let it go, otherwise people will hate you.
"
Leading with love and gratitude
One of the most touching parts of her talk was when Anushka spoke about what really matters when it comes to raising kids.
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She said, "In my case, I have realised that my daughter is very young. And I don't think I can teach her anything. It is how we lead our lives. Are we showing gratitude to others in our daily life? Are we grateful for the things we have in life? Are we showing that as an example? Do we think this is enough? I think she has picked up on that, I don't think I can teach her anything.
For them to learn gratitude, they have to see you being grateful."
Don't stress the small stuff
Anushka also had some wise words for parents who get upset over children's behaviour. Her advice?
"You just have to enjoy their childhood. If you ever see them showing disrespect, they are not showing disrespect, they are just being kids and you can gently guide them. Living by example is the only way to make sure they soak the good things from the environment," she said.
Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma visit Hanuman Garhi temple in Ayodhya