KBC Kid Controversy: Why We Need to Stop Blaming the Parents of Ten-Year-Old Ishit Bhatt
The recent appearance of ten-year-old Ishit Bhatt on "Kaun Banega Crorepati" (KBC) Season 17 has ignited a fierce debate on social media, with much of the criticism directed towards his parents. Ishit, a Class 5 student from Gujarat, surprised viewers with his seemingly overconfident demeanor and direct communication with host Amitabh Bachchan. While some found his behavior refreshing, many labeled it as "disrespectful" and "arrogant," leading to a barrage of online criticism aimed not only at Ishit but also at his parents' alleged failure to instill proper values. However, this rush to judgment overlooks several crucial factors and perpetuates a harmful trend of blaming parents for the perceived shortcomings of their children.
Ishit's behavior on the show, including telling Bachchan not to explain the rules and answering questions rapidly without waiting for options, certainly deviated from the norm. However, attributing this to poor parenting is a simplistic and potentially damaging conclusion. It's important to consider the context: a ten-year-old thrust into the spotlight of national television, facing a legendary figure like Amitabh Bachchan, and dealing with the pressure of a high-stakes quiz show. Psychologists suggest that what appeared as arrogance might have been nervous energy, excitement, or impulsivity amplified by the situation.
Moreover, children develop at different paces, and their behavior is influenced by various factors beyond parental control. To assume that a child's actions are a direct reflection of their upbringing ignores the complexities of child development and individual personality. As Rajiv Adatia, of Bigg Boss fame, pointed out, Ishit is still a child who is learning, and people should be kind and not spoil his self-esteem.
The online backlash also reveals a concerning trend of societal expectations and cultural norms surrounding respect for elders. While respect is undoubtedly important, the intensity of the criticism suggests an intolerance for any deviation from traditional displays of deference. It also reflects a judgmental attitude towards modern parenting styles, with many accusing Ishit's parents of prioritizing confidence over humility.
Singer Chinmayi Sripada defended Ishit, criticizing the harsh tone of the online attacks and pointing out the hypocrisy of adults who are often more abusive online. Others have also spoken out against the excessive public shaming of a child, emphasizing the potential for lasting psychological harm.
Instead of rushing to condemn Ishit's parents, perhaps it's time to consider the broader societal factors at play. One perspective suggests Ishit may be a product of the "Six Pocket Syndrome," a concept that originated in China, where children are excessively pampered by parents and grandparents. This can lead to a lack of discipline and an inflated sense of self-importance. Whether or not this applies to Ishit, it highlights the increasing pressures on modern families and the challenges of raising children in a rapidly changing world.
Ultimately, the Ishit Bhatt controversy serves as a reminder to exercise caution before passing judgment on parents. Publicly shaming a child and blaming their parents based on a brief television appearance is not only unfair but also potentially harmful. Instead, we should strive to understand the complexities of child development, consider the context of the situation, and offer support rather than condemnation. It is more sensible to respond with empathy and understanding rather than contribute to a culture of online shaming.
