Radhika Vidyasagar : Father-child relationships have evolved recently

While she shared a close but rather disciplined and strict relationship with her father, actress Radhika Vidyasagar says that her daughter shares a fun relationship with her husband, and the two are like friends. The actress, who is currently seen in Rahul Tewary and Rolling Tales production’s Udne Ki Aasha and also recently made her Hindi film debut with Munjya, produced by Maddock films, says that days such as Father's Day must be celebrated every day!
“Happy Father's Day to all the fathers out there! I don't believe in celebrating just one day as Father's Day. As a typical Indian woman, I have a typical Indian relationship with my father, which is characteristic of the 70s and 80s. My dad, an ex-serviceman, was very disciplined and strict. Our relationship was built more on respect and discipline than on friendship, unlike today's more friendly father-child relationships. My father has taught me many valuable lessons. He instilled in me a love for plants and animals, especially dogs and cats. My father is a big pet lover and gardener, and these passions have been passed down to me. My bond with pets and my love for gardening are directly inherited from him,” she says.
She adds, “I believe that every day should be celebrated as Father's Day and Mother's Day. However, since Father's Day is on the 16th and we're going to meet in Pune, we will try to celebrate. Coincidentally, this month is filled with special occasions for us—birthdays, anniversaries, Father's Day—all in June. We will have large family gatherings, and I look forward to all of it.”
Talking about her father, she says, “My father is happiest when he is with his plants. Even at the age of 80, he spends his days gardening from morning till evening. He enjoys plucking mangoes and other fruits from his garden. Besides gardening, he finds joy in being with his patients, repairing his car and two-wheeler, and doing various tasks around the house. He also loves watching television and keeping up with the stock market, a habit he has maintained for years. Moreover, he loves travelling and makes sure to go on trips frequently. On this Father's Day, I wish him a very healthy and happy life.”
She says that fathers today are expressive in their love for their kids. “I agree that fathers tend to be less expressive, but I see this changing with the new generation. For example, my daughter and my husband share a friendship-like bond rather than a traditional father-daughter relationship. Yes, our films and television are often dominated by motherly emotions, but this dynamic is evolving,” she says.

Shabir Ahluwalia and Sarah Killedar's on-screen bond: A Father-Daughter duo to cherish

As Father's Day draws near, one of the most endearing bonds to witness on screen is the father-daughter relationship between Mohan and Gungun in the television series Pyar Ka Pehla Naam Radha Mohan produced by Prateek Sharma and Parth Shah's (Studio LSD). The show has been captivating audiences with its engaging storyline and impressive performances. Pyar Ka Pehla Naam Radha Mohan showcases a beautiful father-daughter relationship between Shabir Ahluwalia (Mohan) and Sarah Killedar (Gungun). Their on-screen bond has captivated audiences, making it a highlight of the show.
Shabir Ahluwalia's portrayal of Mohan is marked by his protective demeanor and unwavering love for Gungun. As a father figure, Mohan embodies both strength and tenderness, providing a steady anchor in Gungun's life. His nuanced performance captures the complexities of fatherhood, from the sacrifices made to the unconditional support offered. Ahluwalia's on-screen presence adds depth to the character, making Mohan not just a father but a role model viewers can relate to and admire. Sarah Killedar's portrayal of Gungun has been impressive, bringing innocence, vulnerability, and strength to the character. Her on-screen chemistry with Shabir Ahluwalia is undeniable, and their father-daughter relationship has become a highlight of the series. Mohan's protective and caring nature towards Gungun, and Gungun's love and respect for her father, have created a truly special bond that resonates with audiences.
In the show, Mohan and Gungun's relationship has gone through ups and downs, but their love and trust in each other have remained unshakeable. Shabir Ahluwalia, known for his versatile acting, has brought depth and warmth to the character of Mohan, making his bond with Gungun truly special. Sarah Killedar, the young talent who plays Gungun, has impressed viewers with her natural acting skills and adorable on-screen presence. Her chemistry with Shabir is undeniable, and their father-daughter duo has become a fan favourite.

My Forever Love: Varsha Hegde's heartfelt Father’s Day tribute

This Father’s Day, actress Varsha Hegde has opened her heart to share a touching tribute to her father, expressing the deep bond and admiration she holds for him. In a heartfelt message, Varsha described her father, Vasant, as her hero, first love, and forever love, reflecting on the immense impact he has had on her life and career."I cannot imagine my life without my dad. He is my hero, my first love, and my forever love. I have never witnessed, seen, or felt anyone loving me or caring for me as much as my dad does. He is simply magic,” Varsha shared.
Varsha highlighted her father's uncanny ability to understand her emotions, saying, “Whether I'm stressed or happy, he can read my expression and tell what's going on in my life. He knows when I'm upset, happy, or overwhelmed. He is my lifeline. I am a typical daddy's girl.” Reflecting on the values her father instilled in her, Varsha noted, “I have learned to be a very honest person from him. He is truthful, and I never lie because my dad never lies. Today, I am honest, true, and straightforward, and it's all thanks to my dad's influence during my growing up years.”
Her father's expressive nature and their special connection were also highlighted. “When I don’t call him for a day, he immediately calls back and asks me why I didn’t. The way he expresses his love for me is magical. He is very expressive and makes my day beautiful,” Varsha remarked.In a nostalgic recollection, Varsha shared how her father named her, inspired by his own name, Vasant. “Movies like Gunjan Saxena were amazing and I was even named after my dad as his name is Vasant, so when I was born he named me Varsha,” she said.
Varsha also reminisced about the cherished moments from her childhood, including the songs and movies they enjoyed together. “When I was small, my dad used to sing this song to me – 'Tu Mera Dil, Tu Meri Jaan' and 'Papa Kehta Hai'. We had our share of movies and songs that we loved to watch together. Also, the film 'Akele Hum Akele Tum' was amazing.” Her father’s creative side shone through during times when her mother was away. “When my mom used to be out somewhere, my dad used to cook for us and he used to make so many creative dishes for me and my sister so we would eat properly,” Varsha recalled.
This Father’s Day, Varsha plans to celebrate by treating her father to a movie date and shopping, combining two of his favorite activities. “This Father’s Day I would take my dad for a movie date and for shopping as he is a big Bollywood movie buff,” she said.Despite being around 75 years old, Vasant Hegde’s dedication to fitness remains an inspiration for Varsha. “He works out regularly and keeps a check on his diet. He is a very fitness freak dad who can jog with me and work out with me. Me and him cooking together or working out or watching a movie together makes him very happy,” she shared.
Varsha credits her entry into the film industry to her father's unwavering belief in her capabilities. “Taking him out for a movie is his best day and I came into this industry as my dad has always manifested to see his daughter on screen and he thought I was so capable to work as an actress in movies and I hope I make his dream come true,” she concluded.

Though he did not stop me, he was not fully supportive of me going into full-time theater: Namita Lal

Namita Lal, who has been a part of movies like Before Life After Death, Lihaaf, Country of the Blind, Oxygen, and My Goal: Football, says though her father was not supportive of her choosing a career in theater, he never stopped her. She says she will forever be grateful for that.Speaking on the occasion of Father’s Day, which will be celebrated on June 16, she said, “Though he did not stop me, he was not fully supportive of me going into full-time theater during college and after it, at that time, because he wanted me to be financially independent. And I thank him for that because it was important in those days and ages.”
“If I had not been successful, I would have been dependent on my parents for my earnings, and that was not something he wanted to do. But when I moved out of my banking career, he supported me fully and wholeheartedly to now jump into this in my second inning. So that's again his contribution, which has been huge,” she added.
Namita further said that she and her father are both very emotional people and would tear up easily. “He and I are both very emotional people. We cry even at the simplest of ads. If there's a father-daughter ad, an ad about jewelry, or an ad with a father saying goodbye to his daughter after marriage, we tear up,” she said.“Some of my favorite films have been about fatherhood. If you remember Babul with Amitabh Bachchan and Rani Mukherjee, both of us really loved that film. The portrayal of fathers in the movie resonated with me because it showed the kind of father he is. I've traveled extensively with him all over the world, whether it's been to places like Vietnam, Thailand, China, or London. He has always been very, very close to me,” she added.
Plans for Father’s Day? “I hope to at least be with him on video on Father's Day and his special birthday coming up, and I always think about him in my prayers and gratitude,” she ended.

This Father's Day, Zing Celebrates the unseen Coach in our lives with #DadMyFirstCoach

This Father's Day, Zing is proud to unveil its latest campaign, #DadMyFirstCoach, celebrating the unique and invaluable role that dads play in our lives. More than just providers and protectors, dads are often our first coaches, offering unwavering support and cheering us on through life's many challenges. These silent champions find joy in their children's small victories, knowing these moments pave the way for greater triumphs. Zing's new video beautifully captures the essence of fatherhood, highlighting the special ways dads express their love and support. They are our first coaches, biggest fans, and silent cheerleaders, always there to guide us toward success. This heartwarming tribute shines a light on the unsung heroes who shape our lives.
Pankaj Balhara, Business Head at Zing, shared, “Most of us wouldn’t be where we are today without the guidance and support of our fathers. They are the silent spectators who watch our every move and guide us quietly, helping us become the best versions of ourselves. This Father’s Day, we are highlighting the often-unacknowledged role dads play in shaping our skills, resilience, and character – essentially, being our first coaches. Sometimes, the most significant victories come from the sidelines, by cheering on our children and celebrating their achievements. This video is a tribute to those dads who find their happiness in their children's success.”
Join us in celebrating these remarkable role models this Father’s Day. Watch the #DadMyFirstCoach video and share your stories of the amazing dads who have helped you win in life. Let's honour the silent champions who win by watching us win.