Real Heroes for Real Inspiration- Rommal Surana

In a world where children's screens are often filled with superheroes, cartoons, and fantasy characters, the question arises: who should be their role models? The typical storyline in many cartoons features a young hero who saves the world, while adults stand helplessly shouting for rescue. These characters often use complex technology and possess powers beyond imagination. While this may entertain and fascinate children, it also leaves a lasting imprint. Children often mimic these fictional heroes, parroting their phrases and fantasizing about their abilities.

But are these the role models we want for our children? Many children also idolize cinema actors, some of whom appear in advertisements promoting harmful products such as cigarettes, paan masala, or alcohol. The glamour associated with these endorsements can make these substances attractive to young minds, inadvertently leading them down a dangerous path.

As parents, we have the responsibility to guide our children toward real heroes—individuals who have genuinely contributed to society and can serve as tangible role models. Encouraging children to meet and learn from these real-life heroes provides them with realistic goals, grounded in hard work, resilience, and positive values.

I recall a personal example that illustrates this point well. The movie Chandu Champion was based on the inspiring life of Mr Murlikant Petkar, a decorated war hero and Paralympic gold medalist. My son was fortunate enough to meet Mr Petkar in person. The impact of that encounter was profound. When my son later watched the movie, he told me, "I want to contribute to the nation, just like him." Before this, he had always dreamed of being a fictional superhero like Superman. However, seeing and interacting with a real-life hero shifted his aspirations toward something concrete and meaningful.

Real-life examples and face-to-face interactions with inspiring people ground children's aspirations in reality. Such experiences foster empathy, resilience, and a desire to contribute to society in positive ways. Fictional characters may entertain, but real-life heroes leave lasting lessons that shape who our children become.

Parenting Tip: Real Heroes Over Fictional Icons

Introduce your children to real-life role models through personal interactions, books, documentaries, or talks. Whether they are athletes, scientists, soldiers, or social workers, these heroes provide practical, achievable examples of perseverance and success. It’s through real connections and genuine stories that children learn what true heroism is and how they, too, can make a difference.

By Romal Surana - Child and Adolescent counselor, Parenting Coach, Special needs Educator and TedxSpeaker.

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