Beta khana khaya kya? This phrase was previously featured in ID Foods' advertising campaigns. It symbolizes a mother's love for her child, using food as a metaphor instead of the common phrase "I love you." I think we can all relate to how mothers often ask about our food, whether we're at home or out.
Many mothers used food to make their children happy and strengthen their bonds. With more women joining the labor force in the last 20–30 years, especially in booming service sectors, the question of "What's for dinner?" has shifted to whether you've ordered from Zomato or Swiggy.
The bond between a mother and her child is centered around food, especially before the child becomes a rebellious teen or gets a smartphone. Sharing a meal provides a chance to discuss the day, plans, and concerns in a non-confrontational way, unlike one-on-one discussions that can lead to conflicts.
The father's role appears to have remained largely consistent. They might be a little more involved, but they are a long way off from fathers in the western worlds, who do the household chores and even cook great meals. In India, mothers today are handling much heavier responsibilities than before, including jobs, family, and finances.
Today's husbands and fathers may have to show up in some way and contribute. And it is not putting the Swiggy and Zomato app on the phone; that's just the easiest way to do it. It needs to have a lot more emotional involvement, connect and understanding. Engage in sports or activities the child enjoys and gradually build a friendship as they grow. This will also allow mothers and wives to pursue their own interests.
In India, ongoing challenges persist, and men are unprepared to face future difficulties. And the mothers, working mothers especially, are taking a much greater load. So there will be a lot of stress on this ecosystem which could impact both marriages and children. If you see the warning signs, pause and see what changes you can make for the better. Mothers, please teach your sons to be more helpful at home and treat both daughters and sons equally.
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