Latest news with #Tugnait
Indian Express
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Indian Express
Kushboo Sundar admits her ‘jaw dropped' when she saw Silk Smitha for the first time: ‘I have never seen…'; psychotherapist points out the lesson it imparts
Tamil actor and politician Kushboo Sundar has always admired yesteryear actor and dancer Silk Smitha, so much that her jaw dropped when she saw her for the first time. 'The most comfortable person in her own body, looks, whom I have seen, was Silk Smitha. I have always admired her,' said Kushboo. She recounted her first impression of the mighty star, whose life inspired Vidya Balan's film The Dirty Picture (2011). 'My jaw dropped for the first time when I saw her…the star. In fact, in 1984, actor Arjun and I did a silent film that didn't finish, but she was playing a huge role. She was yet to come to the set. There was anticipation that 'madam' was coming. And she walked in. My jaw dropped. Not that she was much older than I. Must be 4-5 years older. I have never seen such a warm, wonderful, and intelligent woman like Silk,' Kushboo told Galatta India. Taking a cue, let's understand what makes certain people extremely comfortable in their bodies and what one can learn. Dr Chandni Tugnait, MD (A.M), psychotherapist, coach, and healer, founder and director, Gateway of Healing, noted that Silk Smitha was known for her unapologetic comfort with her body, which was not defined by conventional beauty standards but instead by her authenticity and self-assurance. 'In an industry that often emphasises a singular image of beauty, Smitha's ability to confidently support her physicality stood as a beacon of individuality and strength. Her legacy continues to serve as a powerful reminder that true beauty doesn't conform to societal expectations; rather, it emanates from how one accepts, respects, and loves their body. This approach promotes a healthier, more inclusive narrative of beauty,' said Dr Tugnait. Smitha's journey underscores the transformative power of self-acceptance. 'By appreciating her body and identity, she cultivated an authenticity that resonated with audiences, demonstrating that true beauty emanates from self-confidence and self-love,' said Dr Tugnait. Her unapologetic presence inspired countless individuals to accept their bodies. 'Smitha became a symbol of empowerment, showing that confidence is not about conforming to societal expectations but about owning one's uniqueness,' mentioned Dr Tugnait. Navigating public scrutiny with grace needs a strong mindset, shared Dr Tugnait. 'Despite public scrutiny and criticism, Smitha maintained her composure and confidence. Her ability to navigate challenges with grace taught the importance of resilience and staying true to oneself amidst external pressures,' said Dr Tugnait.
Indian Express
5 days ago
- Health
- Indian Express
Nushrratt Bharuccha says she chose to not learn cooking after seeing mother in the kitchen: ‘Microwave me bhi khaana banaungi toh…'
Nushrratt Bharuccha has been quite vocal about her life and choices. While growing up in a liberal household, she consciously chose not to conform to society's expectation of a girl knowing how to cook. In a recent conversation, Bharuccha, 39, shared, 'While growing up, I don't think I have ever had any of those things that I have had to question, fight, or break. The maximum I am telling you is about cooking. Mom is a housewife. So, I have seen my mom in the kitchen all my life. And subconsciously, it was imprinted in my mind that if I learn how to cook, then I would be limited to the kitchen. Not out of anything else, but out of basic things that she makes good tea, make one more cup. Can you make today's food?' So, by default, the Chhorii 2 actor 'didn't want to learn'. 'I don't know how to cook. Microwave me bhi khaana banaungi toh jala dungi…(Even if I heat it in the microwave, I will burn it). Zero skill sets in the kitchen. And I chose it,' she told Hauterrfly. While it does work for her, Dr Chandni Tugnait, psychotherapist, director, Gateway of Healing, said that it's important to reflect on the deeper value of life skills, such as cooking, that often get overlooked. She also mentioned that, more than the gendered aspect, acquiring life skills like cooking isn't just about practicality; it's about empowering yourself. Gaining independence in managing basic tasks can reduce stress, boost self-worth, and provide a sense of control over your life, stressed Dr Tugnait. 'Being able to care for oneself by preparing meals boosts self-esteem and confidence and reduces dependence on others. This develops emotional resilience and creates a sense of autonomy, essential for mental well-being,' said Dr Tugnait. She also mentioned that learning practical skills like cooking promotes mindfulness and serves as an outlet for stress. 'It encourages creativity, patience, and problem-solving, which positively impact emotional health,' said Dr Tugnait. However, to each her own. Dr Tugnait emphasised that while choosing not to be limited to the kitchen is a mindful choice, it is essential to be open to learning basic skills so that you can take care of your needs.
Indian Express
07-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Indian Express
When a heartbroken Sunil Dutt opened up about life after wife Nargis' passing due to cancer: ‘Pata nahi kaise jee pate hain log'
Sunil Dutt was extremely grief-stricken by his wife Nargis' passing away in 1981, which is reflected in his interview with the late actor Tabassum. In an undated interview, when Tabassum, asks Sunil about her demise and coping with loss, the Mother India actor responded, 'Main kuch keh nahi sakta iske baare me…kyunki…Insaan sochta hai ki shaayad kisi ke jaane ke baad who jee nahi payega magar pata nahi kaise jee jaate hai…jee paate hai log…main socha karta tha…aur ab main khud jee raha phir mujhe zindagi jo chal rahi hai…mujhe Mother India ka gaana yaad aata hai jo inhone gaaya tha…' (I can't say a lot. People often think they won't be able to live after someone close to them passes away. But I don't know how people can live? I used to think the same, but now I am also living…coping with the loss. The way my life is heading right now, many times I am reminded of the song from Mother India, which Nargis lip-synced). The actor, who subsequently passed away in 2005, was likely referring to the song Duniya Mein Hum Aaye Hain Toh Jeena Hi Padega. Taking a cue from this exchange, we turned to an expert to understand how the deep emotional toll of losing someone so integral to your life plays out. 'His ability to carry on, even after such a devastating loss, offers powerful lessons about resilience and how life moves forward despite heartbreak,' said Dr Chandni Tugnait, psychotherapist, coach, and healer, and the founder and director of Gateway of Healing. After Nargis passed, Sunil Dutt was understandably devastated. They had shared a life, both personally and professionally, and her loss left a void. 'Initially, he questioned how he could continue without her, as her presence had been so integral to his life. But over time, he realised that the world doesn't stop for anyone, no matter how deeply we mourn. The realisation that life must continue, even after the death of someone so close, can be a hard pill to swallow. Yet, it is a universal truth that eventually, life moves forward, and we must find ways to adjust to the new normal,' added Dr Tugnait. What to note? Grief doesn't have a set timeline: Grieving is a deeply personal process. 'There is no defined timeline for when you are 'supposed' to feel better. The sorrow may always linger, but learning to live with it is part of the healing process,' said Dr Tugnait. Honour their memory: For Dutt, honouring Nargis' memory through the Nargis Dutt Foundation allowed him to keep her spirit alive. 'Contributing to a cause they were both passionate about helped him channel his grief into something meaningful, giving him a sense of purpose during a difficult time,' said Dr Tugnait. Seek support and find strength: The importance of leaning on others during times of grief is also pertinent. 'He didn't deal with the loss in isolation; his family, especially his children, were there for him, providing support and grounding him in reality,' said Dr Tugnait. Life goes on, but transformation is key: While life inevitably moves on, loss transforms the individual, emphasised Dr Tugnait. 'Dutt's personal and professional life changed after Nargis's death, but he found a new sense of direction in honouring her legacy and continuing to contribute to society,' said Dr Tugnait.
Indian Express
30-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Indian Express
What Virat Kohli loves most about Anushka Sharma: ‘That's why our understanding is so good'
Virat Kohli has often spoken about Anushka Sharma's role in his life. In an endearing chat with Aamir Khan and Aparshakti Khurana, he once said that Anushka's honesty and desire to help the people around her get better are things he admires. 'I talk about the one thing that I love most about her. It is that she's super honest. Which is why I connect with her so much, because she talks about whatever is in her heart. That's why our understanding is so good. There is no show off. She wants to see people around her improve. And get better. And that's what has happened with me. I've learnt almost everything,' Kohli shared. Aamir, who shared screen space with Anushka in PK, agreed. 'Anushka has a warm, wonderful personality. She's very honest and straightforward.' Why, having a partner who wants you to keep improving and is honest, helps. Having a partner who encourages self-improvement and communicates honestly can significantly enhance both personal growth and the relationship quality. 'These dynamics create an environment where both partners feel motivated to grow, evolve, and support each other in their individual journeys. It's about creating a space where both individuals can thrive,' said Dr Chandni Tugnait, psychotherapist, coach, and healer, founder and director, Gateway of Healing. Here's how such a relationship contributes to long-term success Cultivating a growth-oriented mindset: A partner who actively supports your self-improvement goals helps you develop a growth mindset. 'This mindset, rooted in the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication and hard work, drives you to accept challenges. Rather than fearing failure, you start seeing it as an opportunity to learn and evolve,' said Dr Tugnait. Enhancing emotional intimacy: Honest communication is key to emotional intimacy. 'When a partner is transparent about their feelings, needs, and desires, it creates an atmosphere of trust and openness. This kind of communication strengthens the emotional bond and allows both partners to feel heard and understood,' said Dr Tugnait. Providing constructive feedback: When given with care and respect, honest feedback is invaluable for personal growth. A partner who lovingly provides constructive criticism encourages you to reflect on your actions and behaviors. Dr Tugnait said this feedback helps in self-awareness, guiding you to make positive changes that benefit your personal life and your relationship. Encouraging accountability: Accountability in a relationship goes beyond just keeping promises. A partner who holds you accountable for your actions, choices, and personal goals contributes to your sense of responsibility. 'This encouragement to stay true to your commitments helps develop discipline and reliability, which improves personal growth and builds trust in the relationship,' said Dr Tugnait. A partner who encourages self-improvement and practices honesty is invaluable in any relationship. These qualities not only help individuals grow but also contribute to the overall health and strength of the partnership. DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
Indian Express
12-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Indian Express
Anita Hassanandani opens up about ‘difficult' breakup with Eijaz Khan: ‘…because he was from another culture'
Anita Hassanandani recently opened up about her much-publicised relationship and subsequent breakup with Kkavyanjali co-actor Eijaz Khan in 2007. While admitting not having any regrets, she acknowledged that she had realised that a partner should accept you as you are. 'See, I learnt a lot. I became a better person. I think we were two very good people, not good for each other. The only thing I regret is that I let go of my prime career. I was offered a film called Varsham (2004), a big Tamil hit. And I didn't do it. It was not him, but I didn't want to do it because I wasn't sure if he was okay with it. He didn't ever stop me. Because I wanted to overdo it in the relationship, I took a few bad career moves. But other than that, no regrets. That's life. Heart breaks, breakups, whatever, you learn from every relationship,' the 44-year-old told Siddharth Kannan. Calling it a 'first few longish relationships', Hassanandani, in another interview, told Hauterrfly, 'I'd also gone against my mother because he was from another culture. She wasn't denying it, but she had a feeling…It was a difficult breakup. If somebody wants to change you, to be in love with you, it is not love. But I didn't realise it back then because I was in love and willing to change for the person I loved. I wish I hadn't changed all that much and been myself. I would have been a different person.' Taking a cue from her candid admission, let's understand why breakups happen in relationships and what to do to survive them. Dr Chandni Tugnait, psychotherapist, coach, and healer, founder and director, Gateway of Healing, said that timing often shapes how relationships form, grow, or drift. According to Dr Tugnait, love alone cannot hold two people together. 'What often feels like heartbreak is actually a mismatch in life's rhythm. When held by the right timing, the right connection requires less effort and more ease. And that's when love begins to feel like home, not a battle. Accepting this can bring peace. Because when two people are truly aligned in heart and time, love flows without force,' said Dr Tugnait. *A person may desire a relationship but still carry emotional baggage. The relationship will feel one-sided if they are not ready to receive or offer love fully, no matter how strong the intention. *Both partners need to have the same intentions in the present and future to grow together. 'The pace of growth should be in sync, or both will feel misunderstood,' said Dr Tugnait. *Respect is the need of the hour. If one person pushes for commitment while the other is not ready, it creates pressure. 'Patience and space allow clarity to emerge naturally,' said Dr Tugnait.
