3 min readNew DelhiJul 18, 2025 05:29 PM IST
First published on: Jul 18, 2025 at 05:29 PM IST
Nushrratt Bharuccha has been quite vocal about her life and choices. While growing up in a liberal household, she consciously chose not to conform to society’s expectation of a girl knowing how to cook. In a recent conversation, Bharuccha, 39, shared, “While growing up, I don’t think I have ever had any of those things that I have had to question, fight, or break. The maximum I am telling you is about cooking. Mom is a housewife. So, I have seen my mom in the kitchen all my life. And subconsciously, it was imprinted in my mind that if I learn how to cook, then I would be limited to the kitchen. Not out of anything else, but out of basic things that she makes good tea, make one more cup. Can you make today’s food?”
So, by default, the Chhorii 2 actor “didn’t want to learn”. “I don’t know how to cook. Microwave me bhi khaana banaungi toh jala dungi…(Even if I heat it in the microwave, I will burn it). Zero skill sets in the kitchen. And I chose it,” she told Hauterrfly.
While it does work for her, Dr Chandni Tugnait, psychotherapist, director, Gateway of Healing, said that it’s important to reflect on the deeper value of life skills, such as cooking, that often get overlooked.
She also mentioned that, more than the gendered aspect, acquiring life skills like cooking isn’t just about practicality; it’s about empowering yourself. Gaining independence in managing basic tasks can reduce stress, boost self-worth, and provide a sense of control over your life, stressed Dr Tugnait.
Cooking is a life skill (Photo: Freepik)
“Being able to care for oneself by preparing meals boosts self-esteem and confidence and reduces dependence on others. This develops emotional resilience and creates a sense of autonomy, essential for mental well-being,” said Dr Tugnait.
She also mentioned that learning practical skills like cooking promotes mindfulness and serves as an outlet for stress. “It encourages creativity, patience, and problem-solving, which positively impact emotional health,” said Dr Tugnait.
However, to each her own. Dr Tugnait emphasised that while choosing not to be limited to the kitchen is a mindful choice, it is essential to be open to learning basic skills so that you can take care of your needs.
Nushrratt Bharuccha on not learning to cook (Photo: Nushrratt Bharuccha/Instagram) 
Cooking is a life skill (Photo: Freepik)
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