Bollywood star Rani Mukerji recently opened up about a clever parenting hack she uses to help her ten-year-old daughter, Adira, eat healthy food. Speaking in a candid chat with celebrity chef Sanjeev Kapoor, Rani revealed how reverse psychology plays a role in her parenting style.
Her story has caught the attention of parents and psychologists alike, sparking a wider conversation on how to get children to choose healthier meals.
“Mumma, I Want Rasgulla!”
Rani shared that her daughter constantly craves sweets. “Har din she goes, ‘Mumma I want rasgulla,’” she said, laughing. While she agrees with the modern idea that “sugar is poison,” she feels that strictly banning sweets only increases a child’s curiosity and cravings.
She added, “Now there’s a new trend ki bachchon ko meetha se duur rakho, which I do agree with. But I also feel that agar upar se bolo ‘ye mat khao, woh mat khao’, toh woh zyada khaate hai.”
The Reverse Psychology Approach
Instead of saying “no” to sugary cravings, Rani chose a different approach. “Main usko abhi bolti hoon, khao khao — eat as much as you want. Then she thinks, ‘Why is mumma saying this?’ and ends up eating karela (bitter gourd) instead,” she said with a smile.
This is a textbook example of reverse psychology — a strategy that encourages the opposite of what is said, nudging the child toward healthier choices by making them feel in control.
Expert View: What Is Reverse Psychology?
According to Dr Pavana S, a consultant psychiatrist, relationship expert, and sexologist based in Bangalore, “Reverse psychology is a method where a counterintuitive suggestion is used to drive behavior.”
She explains, “It works by exploiting the natural resistance to direct persuasion. People — especially children — often don’t like being told what to do. But when they feel they are choosing on their own, they become more open.”
Dr Pavana adds that while it can be effective, this method also raises ethical questions. “It is a form of subtle manipulation. Parents should use it carefully, and always with love and honesty at the core.”
A Trend Among Celebrities
Rani Mukerji isn’t the only star parent exploring creative parenting hacks. Many celebrities, including Kareena Kapoor Khan and Shilpa Shetty, have spoken about encouraging balanced diets through playful and participatory methods.
This trend reflects the growing awareness that food education for children must be flexible, fun, and psychology-aware — not driven by fear or strict control.
Why Children Crave Sugar
Children naturally gravitate toward sweets due to their higher energy needs and taste preferences. But excessive sugar consumption can lead to obesity, diabetes, and dental issues. According to the Indian Academy of Pediatrics, it’s best to limit added sugar while promoting natural sugars through fruits.
Parents are advised to:
- Lead by example with healthy eating habits.
- Involve children in meal planning and cooking.
- Avoid labeling food as “good” or “bad.”
- Encourage moderation over restriction.
Making Healthy Food Fun
Rani’s trick aligns with modern parenting psychology. Rather than enforcing rigid rules, it empowers children to choose wisely — often tricking them into making better decisions without confrontation.
Her method could inspire other parents struggling with mealtime battles. As she put it, “Let them choose — they’ll surprise you.”
Explore More:
- Healthy Food Habits for Children – IAP Guide (external)
Want your kids to choose healthy food? Try Rani Mukerji’s parenting trick and see the change. Share this article to help other parents unlock smart mealtime solutions.