‘It’s not as safe as it was for us’: Priyanka Chopra’s mother Madhu Chopra on parents passing down values to children in a rapidly changing world

Despite this evolution, she believes some things must remain constant. According to her, the core values passed down through generations provide children with a strong foundation, allowing them to grow while staying grounded. “But I would say the basic foundation never changes. That should pass down from generation over generation because basis that, they can fly. They can do what they want.”

How can parents balance passing down traditional values and allowing their children to adapt to modern challenges?

Sonal Khangarot, licensed rehabilitation counsellor and psychotherapist at The Answer Room, explains that parents often feel an emotional responsibility to pass down cultural and moral values. However, rigid enforcement can make children feel suffocated in a rapidly changing world. “Instead of imposing, parents can model values in daily life — kindness, integrity, respect — while encouraging open dialogue about their child’s evolving perspectives,” she says. Teaching children the meaning behind traditions allows them to integrate what resonates rather than blindly accepting or rejecting them.

Strategies can help children develop critical thinking and decision-making skills

The digital age exposes children to vast amounts of information—both reliable and misleading. Khangarot suggests parents should encourage kids to question sources, identify biases, and seek multiple perspectives. “Ask: Who is saying this? What’s their motive? Is this fact-based or opinion?” she advises. Rather than shielding children, the focus should be on equipping them with analytical skills. Engaging in discussions about current events, verifying sources, and prioritising factual, science-backed information over viral content can help children filter out the noise.

How do foundational values shape a child’s ability to navigate life’s complexities and make independent choices?

Foundational values serve as a guiding compass. “A child raised with emotional resilience, self-awareness, and ethical reasoning can make independent decisions without being overwhelmed by external influences,” Khangarot notes. Values like accountability, empathy, and self-trust empower children to navigate relationships, careers, and social pressures with confidence. Parents can support this by validating their child’s emotions, allowing mistakes as learning experiences, and fostering an open environment where questioning is encouraged.

“In today’s world, parenting is less about dictation and more about guidance and reassuring support,” she concludes. By blending past wisdom with present realities, parents can equip their children with the tools to make informed, values-driven choices, ensuring they adapt and thrive.

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