Fatherhood today looks very different from what it did just few decades ago. The image of the strict, distant father is slowly being replaced by dads who believe in being emotionally present, approachable, and actively involved in their children’s lives.Television actor Hiten Tejaswini, best known for his roles in shows like “Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi 2″, recently shared his thoughts on parenting around Father’s Day, along with his personal “guru mantra” for raising modern-day children.
For Hiten, who shares twins Nevaan and Katya with actress Gauri Pradhan, parenting is not about being overly strict at every step. Instead, it is about creating a relationship built on trust, understanding, and open communication.
Communication Matters More Than Control
Hiten believes that communication is a parent’s biggest strength. Comparing his childhood with the experience of raising children today, he pointed out that older generations often relied on strict rules, fear, and scoldings to discipline kids. However, he feels that modern parenting requires a different mindset.
According to him, simply saying “no” is no longer enough. Children today are curious and want to understand the reasoning behind decisions. Rather than imposing rules without explanation, parents should sit with their children, talk to them, and help them understand the consequences of their choices. Hiten believes that when children feel heard and respected, they are more likely to develop understanding instead of resentment.
Raising Good Human Beings Comes First
At a time when many parents are focused on grades, achievements, and career goals, Hiten’s priorities are simple. Of course, he wants his children to succeed, but he believes that academic success or grades means nothing if a person lacks kindness, humility, and respect for others.
For Hiten, successful parenting isn’t defined by achievements or report cards but by raising kind, respectful, and empathetic individuals.
Trusting Children to Find Their Own Path
Hiten’s parenting mantra is deeply influenced by his own experiences. When he decided to pursue acting, it was considered an unconventional and uncertain career choice. Yet, his parents trusted him and gave him the freedom to follow his dreams.
Today, he hopes to offer the same trust to his children. He playfully admits that while Gauri is usually the stricter parent, he tends to be the softer and more lenient one. But beneath the their light-hearted dynamic lies a shared goal, to raise independent, grounded individuals who feel supported enough to make mistakes, learn from them, and confidently make their own paths in life.
For Hiten Tejaswini, modern fatherhood is not about control but connection being present, listening with empathy, and giving children the trust and freedom to become their own people.
