Dad, you are the best!

PS: Fathers are always special, they are a pillar of strength in tough times and a shoulder to cry on in lean times.. I had this rare opportunity to express my overwhelming emotions for my dear dad though this article on Father's Day.

This is a post that will always remain close to my heart no matter what..

Changing nappies, late night wake ups, bibs and bottles are no longer new to modern day dads. On this Father’s day, lets look at how the role of a father has changed over the years

     As the world gears up to celebrate Father's day, it is still relatively a new concept in India.  Unlike Mother’s day, which is celebrated with pomp and gait, Father’s day comes and goes without much fanfare. Today, the role of a father has attained a new definition. Modern day fathers are not only income providers for the family; they also share equal responsibility in raising the children and taking care of them. 

     The image of a father has undergone a change from being a hard task master to a good friend. Gone are the days when children lived in awe and fear of their father. Says 16 year old, Catherine Kurien, a student of Choice school, “My dad is my inspiration, my best friend. He is very encouraging and means the world to me. I want to make it special for him this Father’s day.” 

     This attitudinal change has made dads a favourite in the family. Similarly, they are a pillar of strength and support and one realises it especially during hard times. “Dads stand like a rock in trying times. They just have a way of putting everything together and that makes them a hero,” says Arun Thomas, media professional in Kochi, who looks up to his dad as a role model. 

     Dads today have become more involved in family matters and emotionally connected than before. “I see the transformation in my husband ever since our child was born. Patience is a virtue he cultivated after Veda came into our life. From bubble baths to rain walks, they do it all together. He is a doting father, and helps without complaining,” says Harsha Thachery, mother of a two year old toddler. “Aryan’s dad loves to spend more time with him, so he mostly works from home now. He reads to him and plays with him while I run on errands,” shares Annie, a working mother. 

     Psychologists attribute this gradual change in fathers to education, exposure and gender equality. Malini Menon, social worker and counsellor, based in Kochi, explains. “Earlier, fathers used to be the sole bread winners in the family, while the mothers were entrusted with all the household chores and child rearing. Now, with women also working and sharing the financial burden, fathers have chosen to be share family responsibility.” 

     Dr Rashmi R, clinical psychologist, also shares the same view. “The change in financial status of mothers has reduced the burden on the father, who can now relax and spend more time with children. The father’s affection and increased involvement in the family also helps promote a child’s social and emotional development,” adds Rashmi.

     While mothers are strict with their kids and insist on healthy food, fathers are more lenient and place no restrictions whatsoever. Mia Liz, a kindergarten student at Rajagiri, cannot stop gushing about her dad, her superhero. “My appa loves me so much. He makes my favourite noodles when I get back from school,” chips in Mia. 

     Father's day is all about dad. Make him feel special, loved and appreciated, for it is not easy being a father. Make every effort to salute them for their contribution to the lives of their children and family. This Father’s day, give him the best Father’s day gift--- the gift of YOU! 

- sherene joseph