‘That was the first time I left Samara’: Riddhima Kapoor Sahni on when she was forced to leave daughter alone following Rishi Kapoor’s leukemia diagnosis

Taking a cue from her admission, let’s explore what it means to have a constant presence as a parent.

Delnna Rrajesh, psychotherapist, energy healer, and life coach, said Riddhima’s words may seem like a simple anecdote, but they pull back the curtain on a much larger truth: in countless Indian households, parenting is defined by constant presence; a style born of deep love, but shadowed by hidden fears. “This style often begins as attachment parenting, but in its extreme, it mutates into enmeshed parenting, where a parent’s identity is so fused with the child that even a short absence feels like abandonment. What looks like devotion is often fear wearing love’s clothing,” said Delnna.

The answer is not to stop being present. “But to be present with freedom. To raise children who feel secure enough to thrive even when you’re not in the room. To reclaim your own self without losing your bond,” shared Delnna.

Rishi Kapoor passed away in 2020 (Varinder Chawla)

Imagine trying these shifts:

Five minutes of connection, five minutes of disconnection: Give your child five minutes of undivided attention. “No phone, no distractions. Then step back for five minutes, letting them play, explore, or make a decision on their own. This balance teaches: I’m here for you, but you are strong on your own too,” said Delnna.

Protect “me-time” and “we-time”: Pursue your passions, friendships, and career. This model is self-care, not selfishness. “And nurture your marriage: a walk, a conversation, a date. Children grow stronger watching parents love each other, not just parent them,” expressed Delnna.

Practice small let-gos: Let your child pick mismatched clothes. Let them choose their snack. Leave them with a trusted relative for a short while. “These tiny steps build independence — for the child and for you,” said Delnna.

Write your guilt before acting on it: When guilt screams, “don’t leave,” pause. Journal it. Is this fear about your child’s safety, or your own fear of being dispensable? “Seeing it on paper turns emotional storms into manageable truths,” advised Delnna.

Heal your own inner child: Many parents who can’t let go are still carrying their own wounds of abandonment. “Heal those wounds — through therapy, reflection, or healing practices — so your child doesn’t inherit them as invisible chains,” said Delnna.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.