The depiction of a 'father in the kitchen' in a Kerala textbook has sparked a debate on new-age parenting in India, highlighting how modern parenting challenges traditional gender roles in Desi families, recognises fathers as caregivers, promotes shared responsibilities, teaches boys domestic skills and undermines patriarchy.
Parenting in India is shifting beyond traditional gender roles
The recent depiction of a “father in the kitchen” in the English reader textbook in Kerala has many starting new age conversations. ChildrearingBut what exactly is new-age parenting, and how does it work? Patriarchy Do you want to challenge the archaic gender norms that exist in parenting?
What began as an attempt to bring inclusivity to education has attracted attention because it has opened a debate about two important things: first, it has recognized housework as work, and second, it has challenged long-standing norms of gendered parenting.
Like many roles in Desi society, Desi child-rearing remained gendered. mother Women are seen as the nurturers and caregivers and fathers are seen as the sole breadwinners. However, nowadays, women also share the economic burden. Nevertheless, as parents, women are expected to assume the role of nurturers. However, this is now changing and gender norms in Desi parenting are being challenged.
Fathers and caregivers
Traditionally, mothers were considered the primary caregivers in Desi society and were responsible for childcare, household chores and caring for their children. However, with changing times, women began to take up the workforce and fathers also took on the responsibility of raising their children. Many Instagram reels today focus on fathers' role in raising children and caring for mothers after birth. Many fathers are taking parental leave and attending childbirth classes to prepare for fatherhood.
Transitioning to Shared Parenting Responsibilities
Transitioning to Shared Parenting Responsibilities
In recent years, there has been a noticeable trend towards sharing childcare responsibilities. Desi's family now recognises the importance of both parents being actively involved in raising their children. Fathers are taking on a more hands-on role in childcare. Roles that were once considered “normal” for mothers are now being taken on by fathers and are becoming the norm. From changing diapers to attending parent-teacher meetings, dads do it all.
Learning housework
With both parents working, fathers have taken on the burden of household chores that initially fell on mothers' shoulders. Now, boys are being taught basic skills like cooking, cleaning and washing. This not only makes them more independent but also makes them better partners in the future. The English Reader from Kerala tried to have the same conversation as a father prepares his daughter Sasha's favourite meal in the kitchen.
Flexible and adaptable parenting roles
The evolution of work and family life has made parenting roles more flexible and adaptable. When both parents work, responsibilities are divided based on availability and capabilities rather than traditional gender roles. For example, dads may be in charge of cooking and helping with homework, while moms handle financial planning and car maintenance. This flexibility makes for a more balanced and supportive family environment.
