Known for his razor-sharp humour and bold takes, Cyrus Broacha rarely holds back. But in a refreshingly honest turn, the comedian, actor, and podcaster gets deeply personal in a recent episode of Parenting Aaj Kal. The episode, which also features educator and father Rafiq Siddiqui, dives into the evolving role of Indian fathers and challenges traditional ideas of masculinity and parenting.
Redefining the Indian father figure
For decades, the typical Indian father has been seen as the stern provider emotionally distant and often feared. But Cyrus and Rafiq bring a much-needed shift to this narrative. In their open conversation, they discuss the importance of being emotionally available, supportive, and empathetic fathers who listen rather than lecture.
Rafiq, a school principal who was raised in a strict patriarchal household, shares how he chose a different path for his own children- one rooted in gentle parenting, emotional awareness, and open communication.
Rafiq also spoke about dealing with anger young boys have in them. "If a boy is aggressive, we assume he is spoilt or is naturally a troublemaker. We do not look for the root cause." He shared an incident from his school where he found the root cause of a boy's irrational behaviour and helped him fix it with love and support.
Breaking the silence
One of the standout moments in the episode is the candid discussion around the silent emotional gap between fathers and their children -especially sons. Both guests reflect on how this silence often stems from generational conditioning, where showing vulnerability was seen as weakness. This emotional distance, they argue, contributes to unhealthy ideas of masculinity and limits boys from expressing themselves freely.
They explore why fathers are often more critical of their sons than daughters, and how this impacts a boy's understanding of gender roles and expectations. Rafiq says, "With son's, we don't realise it as fathers but the male ego clashes. With daughters it is not the same. It is always the father-daughter and mother-son relationships that are stronger. But I believe it can be different. Fathers and sons can have a healthy relationship too."
Cyrus added, "I was a hero for my son up until he reached the age of 12. Post that, I think he had a problem with being called Cyrus's son. We grew distant for a few years and I am at fault here to have not understood my child's need from me. I thought he was just irritated where in reality, he was growing up, trying to find his own identity and truly wanted his father to just listen."
Positive masculinity in parenting
The episode also spotlights the concept of positive masculinity- a framework where strength is redefined through empathy, respect, and emotional intelligence. Cyrus emphasises that modelling these values at home is one of the most impactful ways to raise well-rounded children, regardless of gender.
The conversation also critiques the harmful legacy of corporal punishment, with both men admitting that discipline without empathy can leave lasting emotional scars on both children and parents.
Cyrus said, "In a world where kids look up to influencers, toxic male characters and other creators as their role models, all I really care about is, what qualities they take from their heroes. Also as parents, we need to guide our kids in wisely choosing their role models because that's how we as parents shape their thoughts and personality."
The power of listening and everyday conversations
At the heart of the discussion is a simple but powerful idea: fathers need to listen more. From respecting a child’s perspective to having honest conversations about emotions, today’s dads must create space for trust, laughter, and vulnerability. Humour, the two agree, can be a powerful tool to break through generational silence and connect meaningfully.
Parenting Aaj Kal is a Hindi-language talk show hosted by leading developmental pediatrician Dr. Vibha Krishnamurthy and produced by Much Much Media. The series aims to normalize real, stigma-free conversations around modern Indian parenting. Topics range from mental health and digital safety to gender equality and communication within families.
With its blend of warmth, wit, and wisdom, the episode featuring Cyrus Broacha and Rafiq Siddiqui offers valuable insight for parents, educators, and anyone reflecting on their own upbringing.
