Sidharth Malhotra has always been vocal about personal growth and responsibility. As he prepares for fatherhood with Kiara Advani, he has been reflecting on what it means to be a man and a parent. In a recent conversation with Lilly Singh on her podcast, Malhotra shared his perspective on masculinity, parenting, and the values he hopes to instill in his children.
He emphasized that being a man is not just about gender but about character. According to him, masculinity should not be defined by stereotypes but by how one treats others. He spoke about raising boys with kindness and responsibility, stressing that a father plays a crucial role in shaping a child’s outlook. “The best way in my book is to definitely get your boys in check growing up, and that would be my intent in life—be that girl or boy. I think values and ethics and being a kinder human being and a sensitive person are crucial. Being a male is by birth, but being a man is by choice,” he said.
Malhotra credited his mother for teaching him the values he holds today. He recalled how she played a dual role in their household while his father was away at work. “She was a rockstar, playing the role of both the parents at times, and she even managed a business on the side with her friends. I think she’s been a major influence in my life and my brother’s life,” he said. Her strength and resilience shaped his understanding of relationships and responsibility.
As he embarks on this new journey into fatherhood, Malhotra hopes to create a nurturing environment for his child, regardless of gender. He believes that breaking gender biases in parenting starts with how fathers raise their sons. He spoke about the need to move away from outdated ideas of masculinity that equate strength with aggression. “We need to teach our boys that vulnerability is not weakness and that kindness is not an option but a necessity,” he said.
He also discussed his evolving perspective on relationships and emotional intelligence. Over the years, he has grown to appreciate the importance of emotional expression, something he hopes to pass on to his child. “I want my child to know that it’s okay to talk about feelings, to express love, and to be kind without feeling the need to prove anything,” he shared.
Malhotra’s insights reflect a broader conversation about modern masculinity. His thoughts align with a growing movement that challenges traditional gender roles, emphasizing emotional intelligence and kindness over outdated notions of toughness. His approach to parenting is rooted in empathy, something he credits to both his upbringing and his experiences in the film industry.
His relationship with Kiara Advani has also played a role in shaping his views. He praised her ability to balance career and personal life, acknowledging that parenting is a shared responsibility. “Kiara and I are partners in this journey. It’s about raising a child together, learning from each other, and making sure we create a positive environment for our family,” he said.
As Malhotra prepares for fatherhood, he remains committed to breaking stereotypes and redefining what it means to be a man. His words serve as a reminder that masculinity is not about power or dominance but about responsibility, kindness, and emotional strength. He hopes to raise a child who understands the value of empathy and respect, shaping a future where gender does not define character.
With his personal and professional life flourishing, Malhotra is entering a new phase with purpose and clarity. His conversation with Singh offered a glimpse into his vision for the future—one where parenting is about building strong values and creating a world that celebrates kindness over conformity.
Malhotra also reflected on the evolving expectations placed on men in today’s society. He acknowledged that while traditional masculinity often emphasized emotional restraint, the world is moving towards a more balanced and open approach. He believes that men should be encouraged to express themselves freely without fear of judgment. “For the longest time, we were taught that men shouldn’t cry or show emotions. But real strength comes from vulnerability. I want my child to grow up knowing that it’s okay to feel and express those feelings,” he said.
He also addressed the responsibility that comes with being in the public eye. As a Bollywood star, he knows that his words and actions influence many people. He hopes to use his platform to encourage healthier conversations about gender roles and parenting. “Actors have a voice, and people listen. If my words can make even a small difference in how someone sees masculinity or parenthood, then I consider that a step in the right direction,” he shared.
Discussing the importance of role models, Malhotra expressed his admiration for fathers who actively participate in their children’s upbringing. He recalled seeing friends and colleagues embrace fatherhood with enthusiasm and dedication, inspiring him to approach parenting with the same energy. “Fatherhood is not just about providing but about being present. It’s about showing up every day, being there for the little moments, and making sure your child knows they are loved and valued,” he said.
As he and Kiara prepare for their child’s arrival, Malhotra remains focused on ensuring that their home is built on mutual respect and shared responsibilities. He hopes to be an involved and hands-on father, setting an example for his child about what it truly means to be a man. “Parenting is a learning process, and I’m ready for it. I want to raise a child who grows up in an environment filled with love, kindness, and understanding,” he said.
Malhotra’s words signal a shift in how masculinity and parenting are perceived in modern India. By embracing emotional intelligence and challenging outdated norms, he hopes to pave the way for a generation that values empathy over rigid gender roles. As he steps into fatherhood, his journey promises to be one of growth, learning, and deep commitment to raising a child who will carry forward these values.