Actress Sushmita Sen is not only loved for her acting skills, but her remarkable journey as a single mother. The former beauty queen decided to adopt a baby girl in 2000, when she was all of 24, and another one in 2010. Away from the arclights, the outspoken, confident, and much loved diva, is constantly setting parenting goals, sending a message that you don’t have to be married or even have a partner to be an amazing parent. Let’s take a look at the awesome lessons Sushmita gives us in parenting…Single mother no longer a tabooSushmita Sen became a single mother soon after she started working in movies, adopting her first daughter Renee in 2000, and her second daughter Alisah in 2010. In her interviews, she has often spoken about challenges and joys of raising children on her own. Instead of falling into the trap of “log kya kahenge,” Sushmita did not pay attention to naysayers, and raised her two daughters on her own. Her decision to do so proves that being a single mother is no longer a taboo, provided you have the resources to bring your kids up single handedly.
Give your kids the power to chooseSushmita emphasizes raising emotionally strong and independent children. She believes in giving her daughters the freedom to express themselves and make their own decisions, even if they might sound unconventional to others. This helps build confidence and resilience. In one of her interviews, she said that she wants her daughters to be brave, kind, and self-reliant. She said that she allows them to learn from their mistakes, but will always support them through the tough times. Parents can take this lesson to heart by encouraging their children to be independent thinkers and problem solvers.Lead by exampleSushmita Sen has always lived life on her own terms, carrying her heart on her sleeves. Whether it is her choice of movies, or her personal life, she lives her life with honesty, courage, and positivity, setting a strong example for her daughters. She believes children learn more from what they see than what they are told. While talking to Rhea Chakraborty, Sushmita Sen said her advice to her daughters is “Don’t let bullies define you. Rise above their words and be the better person. Your strength lies in your kindness and resilience.”By showing kindness, hard work, and self-respect, she teaches her children important values naturally. This lesson reminds parents that their actions speak louder than words, so if you want your children to be a certain way, you have to model that behaviour yourself first.Open communicationSushmita Sen encourages open and honest communication with her daughters, Renee and Alisah. She believes in listening to their thoughts and feelings without judgment. This creates a safe space where children feel understood and supported. Last year, while talking to Rhea Chakraborty, Sushmita said, “The act of sex, I did not have to explain (to my daughters). They’re already PhDs, all of them are. My younger one is into biology. So, she will get into terms, and I am like, ‘Okay, can we please keep it very generic? We don’t have to discuss the technicalities of it.”Celebrate being an individualSushmita respects her daughters’ individuality and encourages them to follow their passions, no matter how unconventional they might seem to others. She understands that every child is unique, and should be allowed to grow in their own way. Last year, her older daughter Renee Sen made her debut as an assistant director in Vicky Kaushal’s latest film ‘Bad Newz’. She revealed that she gained invaluable experience as an intern assistant director (AD). Just the same way, parents should celebrate their children’s talents and interests, helping them become confident and happy individuals.
Embrace challengesLife has not always been easy for Sushmita Sen, as she had a massive heart attack in 2023, but she embraces challenges with grace and courage. She teaches her daughters that difficulties are opportunities to learn and grow stronger. This mindset helps children develop resilience and optimism. Parents can adopt this attitude by encouraging their children to face problems bravely and see setbacks as stepping stones, rather than failures. It is also okay for parents to make mistakes themselves. Everyone is learning.Love without any boundariesAbove all, Sushmita Sen’s parenting is rooted in unconditional love. She shows her daughters that no matter what, they are loved and accepted for who they are as individuals first.This deep love provides a foundation of security and confidence. Parents can learn from her example by expressing love openly and consistently, making their children feel valued and cherished.
