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From Banker to Culinary Star: Meghna Kamdar on Motherhood, Food, and Finding Balance
Ahmedabad-born Meghna kamdar’s journey from a corporate banking professional to a celebrated culinary creator is a testament to the transformative power of motherhood. Initially unfamiliar with basic cooking tasks like preparing dal and rice, Kamdar embraced the kitchen as a therapeutic outlet following the birth of her daughter, Kangna. Today,her platform,Meghna’s Food Magic,commands a following exceeding 3.1 million,and she has been recognized among Forbes India’s Top 100 Digital Stars.
The Unexpected Path to Culinary Success
Kamdar revealed to Neha Bhayana that her foray into cooking wasn’t planned, but rather an organic response to the challenges of postpartum depression. What began as a personal coping mechanism quickly blossomed into a thriving career, proving that passion can emerge from the most unexpected places. She emphasizes that her culinary endeavors are as notable to her as raising her daughter.
Navigating The Stages of Parenthood
With Kangna now 19 years old, Kamdar reflects on the contrasting difficulties of toddlerhood and adolescence. While the early years offer more control and direct influence, the teenage phase necessitates a shift towards fostering open communication and respecting a young adult’s growing independence. Kamdar describes a close, almost friendly relationship with her daughter, enabling continuous dialog and mutual learning.
A Daughter’s Palate: Cultivating a Love For Food
Kangna, described as a true foodie, displays an appreciation for both customary Indian cuisine and international flavors. Kamdar attributes this to early exposure to a diverse range of dishes, from pesto pasta with sautéed vegetables to wholesome bajra khichdi. She emphasizes the importance of introducing variety from a young age, a strategy that has clearly resonated with her daughter.
Kamdar fondly recalls an instance were a young Kangna publicly praised her pav bhaji, dismissing a competitor’s version. This anecdote highlights a common parental experience – the occasional lack of appreciation for daily efforts,frequently enough fully realized when children gain independence. She notes the eventual realization of the value of “ghar ka khana” when individuals live away from home.
Shared Responsibilities: A Supportive Partnership
Kamdar acknowledges the significant role her husband plays in their family dynamic,describing him as an equal partner in parenting. She appreciates his consistent support, particularly during her frequent work travels, and his dedication to Kangna’s education, handling all school-related matters independently.
Tackling picky Eating: Involving Children in the Process
Addressing the challenge of fussy eaters,Kamdar advocates for active participation. She suggests involving children in grocery shopping,cooking,and even table setting as a means to encourage them to try new foods.This approach, she argues, is far more effective than forceful feeding or hidden ingredients.
She also promotes a balanced approach, allowing for occasional treats alongside nutritious meals. for instance, pairing a healthy ragi paratha with butter and a playful “food brush” can make it more appealing.
nutritional Balance: Moderation Over Restriction
Kamdar cautions against overly restrictive diets, emphasizing the importance of moderation. She believes children should enjoy a variety of foods, including desserts and sweets, without feeling deprived. She also pushes back against the notion of entirely eliminating certain foods, advocating for a balanced intake that includes fruits, nuts, and even sugar.
Screen Time: A Modern Parenting Dilemma
Recognizing the ubiquity of screens in modern life, Kamdar advocates for a pragmatic approach to screen time. She dismisses overly strict limitations as unrealistic and suggests a flexible system, such as bartering screen time for study time. She believes in evolving with the times and understanding that today’s children inhabit a fundamentally different world than previous generations.
Future Aspirations: A Legacy of Creativity
While Kangna isn’t pursuing a culinary career, she actively contributes to her mother’s work on the production side, nurturing a passion for filmmaking. Kamdar firmly believes that every child should possess basic cooking skills for self-sufficiency, particularly when living independently.
Fueling Focus: snacks for Exam Time
kamdar suggests providing children with protein-rich breakfasts to sustain them during demanding study periods. She favors healthy snack options like oatshakes with fruit or sweet potato sandwiches over packaged chips and processed foods,encouraging the inclusion of nuts and seeds for sustained energy.
The Evolving landscape of Parenting and Nutrition
Parenting philosophies continue to evolve, driven by evolving societal norms and scientific understanding. Recent research underscores the importance of fostering a positive relationship with food,emphasizing mindful eating habits over restrictive diets. According to a 2023 study published in the Journal of the academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, family meals are associated with improved dietary intake and psychological well-being in children. This shift highlights the value of creating enjoyable mealtime experiences rather than focusing solely on nutritional content.
| Parenting Approach | Focus | Potential Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Restrictive Dieting | Eliminating “unhealthy” foods | Short-term weight management (often unsustainable) |
| Balanced Approach | Moderation and variety | Positive relationship with food, improved nutritional intake, sustainable habits |
| Involving Children in Cooking | Education and participation | Increased willingness to try new foods, growth of life skills |
Frequently asked Questions About Raising Healthy Eaters
- Q: What is the best way to deal with a child who refuses to eat vegetables? A: Involve them in the selection and preparation of vegetables, offering them choices and incorporating them into fun dishes.
- Q: Should I completely eliminate sugar from my child’s diet? A: A moderate approach is best. Occasional treats are acceptable; focus on overall dietary balance.
- Q: How much screen time is too much for a child? A: Establish consistent boundaries and encourage alternative activities, like reading and outdoor play.
- Q: What are some healthy snack options for kids? A: Fruits,vegetables with hummus,yogurt,nuts,and seeds are excellent choices.
- Q: Is it important for children to learn to cook? A: Absolutely! It’s a valuable life skill that promotes independence and healthy eating habits.
- Q: How can I encourage my child to try new foods? A: Present new foods alongside familiar favorites,and avoid pressuring them to eat.
- Q: What role does a father play in a child’s diet and development? A: A supportive and engaged father can significantly contribute to a child’s well-being and healthy habits.
What are your biggest challenges when it comes to feeding your children? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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