By – Kavita Shyam
Sonali Bendre Behl pens down her experiences of being a mother in her book The Modern Gurukul. The actress cum celebrity mother-turned-author talks about parenting and her book. Ten years ago she became a mother to baby Ranveer and put Bollywood in the backburner, since then there has been no looking back. Penned in six months, the book comprises notes of wisdom, nuggets of knowledge and tips on being a parent collected over the years, in her memory scribbled as forget-me-nots at the back of grocery to-do lists.
You think mothers can take away a lot on parenting from your book?
This book is not just for mothers but fathers too, and traces my journey of parenthood. I hope parents find comfort and solace reading it.
You are a celebrity mother so how different is your life from that of a non-glamorous life?
A mother is a mother no matter what she does and who she is. A celebrity mother and one that doesn’t have her life in the limelight both work equally hard to ensure the best for their child.
Do we see this as a peek at a celeb mom’s life?
Honestly, I don’t think my career plays any significance with regards to me raising my son. At the end of the day we’re all parents, irrespective of our careers. The book is a journal, from one parent to another. I am an expert on my son only.
Most celebrity moms seem and portray parenting as a cool thing. Do you also belong to that brigade?
I have never perceived it as ‘cool’, but if that’s what you think then I will enjoy that opinion!
As a mother to a young boy, do you feel there are certain rights and wrongs in parenting?
I believe that there are no right or wrong ways of raising a child. Parenthood is an experience, and as long as it’s heartfelt it’s great.
From Babyhood, toddler days, childhood and to now perhaps the preteens – which phase of being a mother has been special for you?
The journey has become more thrilling with every passing day. Ranveer’s mind is growing, and interactions have become more fulfilling.
Are you a friend to your child or a typical mom?
My son can be as open as he wants with me, but he cannot forget I am his mother and that all will not be forgiven.
Twinkle, Shilpa your contemporaries have brought out their own books. And now you as an author on parenting post Bollywood?
There was no social media when Twinkle, Shilpa and I were acting. It was all about interviews and glamour. Back then it was okay, but now, we want the world to see another side of us.
Is your husband a hands on father and is there something the fathers can take home from the book?
There is a whole chapter on fathers. Goldie is a hands-on father and I feel, new age dads are involved in every aspect of their children’s lives. Now, that is being macho.
Would you say there has been a lesson to learn from having a child?
It has definitely taught me to listen to my child and not just hear them. These 10 years have been the most memorable years I would not change a thing. But if I had to, I would want to focus on my health from the beginning.
The Indian Telegraph Sydney Australia
