Filmmaker Shekhar Kapur warns about one mistake parents make with kids: 'It becomes a lifelong addiction'

Time of India

10 hours ago

— shekharkapur (@shekharkapur)
The Creative Legacy of Shekhar Kapur
Rise in Indian Cinema
Breaking Barriers with International Acclaim
A Global Reputation with Historical Dramas
Continued Impact with a Sequel
Renowned filmmaker Shekhar Kapur recently addressed a critical parenting issue that often goes unnoticed but leaves a lasting impact on children. In a reflective post shared on the social media platform X, Kapur cautioned against promoting approval-seeking tendencies in kids.According to him, teaching children to measure their worth based on others' opinions can become a deeply ingrained habit, affecting them throughout life. This mindset, he implied, fosters a cycle of dependence on external praise and validation. Such an approach not only diminishes self-assurance but can also hinder emotional growth and independent thinking in the long run. His insight was aimed at encouraging more mindful and responsible parenting by nurturing internal confidence rather than reliance on others' approval.His post read, "Lessons of Life: That's the worst thing we do to our kids. Teach them to seek justification for themselves from others. It becomes a lifelong addiction...to constantly look for a pat on the back."Shekhar Kulbhushan Kapur, born on December 6, 1945, is a legendary figure in the world of cinema. Hailing from the prominent Anand-Sahni family, Kapur's artistic vision and storytelling flair have earned him global admiration. His exceptional career has brought him numerous honors, such as the BAFTA Award, a National Film Award, accolades from the National Board of Review, and three Filmfare Awards. Additionally, his work has received a nomination for the prestigious Golden Globe Award, cementing his reputation on the international stage.Kapur's early visibility came from his participation in the television drama Khandaan, which introduced him to a wider Indian audience. However, his breakthrough as a filmmaker occurred in 1983 with Masoom, a poignant and emotionally resonant film that marked his directorial debut. This was followed by the blockbuster Mr. India in 1987, which became a cultural phenomenon and further established his place in Indian cinema. The film, known for its imaginative narrative and iconic characters, remains a beloved classic.Kapur's directorial vision extended beyond Bollywood with the gritty and powerful Bandit Queen in 1994. This biographical drama, centered around the controversial life of Phoolan Devi, an Indian bandit-turned-politician, brought him international acclaim. The film was featured in the Directors' Fortnight at the 1994 Cannes Film Festival and was later screened at the Edinburgh Film Festival. With its raw storytelling and unflinching portrayal of socio-political themes, Bandit Queen became a turning point in Kapur's career, showcasing his ability to handle bold and sensitive subjects with depth and nuance.In 1998, Kapur reached new heights with Elizabeth, a lavish period drama that dramatized the rise of England's Queen Elizabeth I. The film received seven nominations at the Academy Awards, further boosting Kapur's international stature. It was hailed for its grandeur, historical intrigue, and compelling performances. Building on this success, he went on to direct The Four Feathers in 2002, a wartime epic delving into themes of courage and redemption.In 2007, Kapur revisited Elizabethan England with Elizabeth: The Golden Age, the sequel to his earlier hit. This film focused on the later reign of Queen Elizabeth I, portraying her political battles and personal struggles. With its rich cinematography and powerful storytelling, the sequel reinforced Kapur's expertise in historical cinema and his continued ability to captivate global audiences.