In an industry where children of stars often have to endure a life in the public eye, actor Mahesh Babu and his wife, Namrata Shirodkar, have cultivated a parenting style that focuses on normalcy, humility, and family values. In spite of being superstars in the Telugu film industry and reaping the rewards that come with it, the couple has made sure that their children, Gautam Ghattamaneni and Sitara Ghattamaneni, lead a normal and humble life.A childhood that is simple, not spectacularIn spite of being the children of a superstar father, Gautam and Sitara’s life has been kept away from the excesses that come with being a movie star child. Mahesh and Namrata have made sure that their children have had a mostly normal childhood, unlike other movie stars who let their children lead a life that is more spectacular and glamorous. In an interview, Namrata said, “Fame is something they are aware of, but it is not the centre of their lives. At home, Mahesh is just ‘dad’, not a superstar. We want them to grow up respecting people for who they are, not what they represent.” The fact that there is a clear distinction between their public and personal life has helped them lead a humble life.Education first — creating a sense of identity separate from cinemaIn the case of Mahesh and Namrata, education has always been the top priority over entering the film industry at a young age. This can be seen in the academic life of Gautam. Currently, Gautam is studying at New York University. Since his childhood appearance in his father’s film, Gautam has stayed out of the industry. In an interview, Mahesh revealed his desire to allow his son to find his own identity. “I don’t want Gautam to feel pressured to follow my path. He should explore the world, study, travel, and decide who he wants to be.” The same was revealed by Namrata. “We want our children to have their own identity. The film industry is just one of the possibilities; it’s not a necessity.” This shows that they believe in the idea that legacy should never come in the way of choice.The early exposure of Sitara—with proper guidanceIn contrast to her brother Gautam, Sitara has already entered the industry through advertisements, dance shows, and brand promotions. However, her parents have still been very cautious about her exposure at a young age. In an interview, Namrata revealed that Sitara’s exposure is more passion-based rather than career-based. “She loves dancing and performing, and we encourage her to follow her passion. However, she is still a child. Education, discipline, and being kind are more important than anything else.” The same was revealed by Mahesh,” I feel happy when I look at her because she is gaining more confidence. However, we are being very careful that she doesn’t get influenced by her fame. She needs to understand her self-worth beyond her popularity.” Parenting under the public eyeBeing one of the most recognizable couples from South India comes with its own share of scrutiny. Mahesh and Namrata, however, have managed to maintain a protective space around their children’s personal lives. The social media glimpses are carefully curated, and the celebrations are shared only on rare occasions. The controversies are kept at an arm’s length from family space.“Children should not carry the weight of their parents’ fame,” Namrata has said. “They deserve privacy to make mistakes and learn.” The same is true for Mahesh, who believes that values should always take precedence over stardom. “Respect, empathy, and humility—that’s what we focus on. Stardom is temporary; character stays.” This is what has influenced the way they handle their children’s exposure to both privilege and stardom.A modern celebrity parenting blueprintThe parenting style of Mahesh Babu and Namrata Shirodkar embodies what it means to be a contemporary celebrity parent. They have redefined what it means to come from a film dynasty. And they encourage their children’s education, self-exploration, and the development of good values. As Namrata once said, “We want them to know where they come from, but more importantly, where they can go on their own.” In a conversation with another publication, Mahesh said, “If they grow up kind, confident, and independent, we’ve done our job.” In a world that is fascinated with children of celebrities, the quiet parenting style of Mahesh and Namrata stands out. They have proven that even in the most glamorous of worlds, childhood can still be real.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d3ZIS8iYpVI&t=4s
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