Chennai: Spiritual leader Sadhguru offered a refreshing perspective on parenting during a recent interaction with actor Alia Bhatt, advising her to learn how to live from her young daughter rather than focusing on teaching her.
The conversation took place at an event hosted by Jain International Trade Organisation Chennai Plus, titled In Conversation With The Mystic, where the two discussed topics ranging from parenting and internet culture to fear of failure and lifestyle habits.
“A worried parent is not a good parent”
During the session, Alia Bhatt asked Sadhguru for advice on parenting, particularly about dealing with the constant worry that comes with raising a child.
Responding candidly, Sadhguru remarked that “a worried parent is not a good parent,” emphasising that anxiety does not benefit either the parent or the child. He suggested that excessive concern can, in fact, do more harm than good.
Alia, however, responded honestly, saying that it is difficult to completely eliminate worry from parenthood — a sentiment many parents relate to.
Learn from children, not just teach them
The discussion took a deeper turn when Sadhguru advised Alia to rethink the traditional role of a parent.
He suggested that instead of constantly trying to teach children, parents should observe and learn from them. Referring to her daughter Raha Kapoor, he asked who seemed more joyful — the adult or the child.
When Alia admitted that Raha was more joyful, Sadhguru used the moment to underline his point: children are naturally closer to life and experience joy more effortlessly than adults.
He added that parents should act more like “consultants for life” rather than instructors, allowing children the space to grow while simply guiding them when necessary.
Children and natural joy
According to Sadhguru, children between the ages of three and six are typically full of joy and laughter, whereas adults often lose that natural state over time.
He pointed out that while children do not need external reasons to be happy, adults often require effort and circumstances to feel the same way. His remarks highlighted how life experiences and societal pressures tend to distance people from their innate sense of joy.
The spiritual leader encouraged parents to simply observe their children as they grow, rather than imposing rigid expectations shaped by adult perspectives.
Light-hearted moment on sleep habits
The conversation also included a lighter moment when Sadhguru revealed that he sleeps only four to four-and-a-half hours a day. This left Alia visibly surprised, as she shared that she prefers getting eight to nine hours of sleep.
In a humorous response, Sadhguru quipped, “Then when do you live?”, drawing laughter from the audience.
What lies ahead for Alia Bhatt
On the professional front, Alia Bhatt has a busy year ahead. She is set to appear in upcoming films like Alpha and Love & War, both scheduled for release later this year.
Conclusion
Sadhguru’s advice to Alia Bhatt offers a thought-provoking take on parenting, encouraging a shift from control to observation and learning. His perspective underscores the idea that children, with their natural joy and curiosity, can often teach adults valuable lessons about life itself.