Farah, who became a mother through IVF in 2008 at age 43 with husband Shirish Kunder, has consistently emphasized discipline alongside love. “I am a strict mom; they can’t go wherever they want without me tracking them. Every evening, we have a gossip chat to know what’s happening in their lives. Even though I am strict, I am also fun,” she said.
She outlines three core principles for her children: teaching the value of money, avoiding premature exposure to clubs or makeup, and instilling respect, particularly in her son. Farah explained that her children travel in economy class while she flies business class, emphasizing that luxuries must be earned. She also guides her son on respectful interaction with women, ensuring he avoids peers who demean girls.
Parenting experts note that Farah’s approach reflects a broader need for balance in modern parenting. Dr. Nidhi Sahu, a child and adolescent psychologist, explains that today’s parents face challenges including maintaining authority while granting autonomy, managing conflicts with openly questioning teens, and mitigating the effects of social media and peer pressure. She warns that teenagers, despite having access to vast information, often struggle with decision-making and are prone to impulsive behavior.
Parents are advised to watch for warning signs such as mood swings, anxiety, sleep or appetite changes, social withdrawal, or excessive screen time. Sahu emphasizes that rigid restrictions, such as banning makeup, may backfire. Instead, guided discussions on self-expression, age-appropriate use, and self-worth help teenagers develop confidence without rebellion.
Maintaining boundaries, experts say, should be grounded in respect rather than fear. Clear rules, consistent enforcement, listening to children, and offering limited choices foster responsibility and trust. Leading by example ensures that children understand the purpose behind rules, making discipline a supportive framework rather than a constraint.
Farah Khan’s parenting style offers a model of combining discipline with warmth, reflecting the ongoing evolution of modern parenting where structure, guidance, and emotional support coexist.
