R. Madhavan shares he avoids the 'cosmetic father' approach; calls spending quality time with kids a 'Western concept'

R. Madhavan, who is currently enjoying the success of his film 'Dhurandhar: The Revenge,' recently shared his way of parenting. The actor has a different approach towards raising children from what is preached in the current times. He expressed that spending "quality time" with the kids is a Western concept.In conversation with Rannvijay Singh on the Mashable Middle East YouTube channel, R Madhhavan shared that he doesn't believe in spending quality time with the children; instead, he focuses on guidance, imparting values, and trust. The actor shared that he doesn't go for the "cosmetic father" approach, where one has to be seen everywhere in their kid's life but in a superficial way. He said, "There will be enough time or there will never be enough time to spend with your kids."‘Dhurandhar: The Revenge’ box office collection day 9: Ranveer Singh, Rakesh Bedi, Sanjay Dutt's film mints over Rs 1,100 crThe actor added, "Don’t take the career lightly at this point in time. I think this is a very Western concept that I have to spend quality time with the kids."R Madhavan shared his way of parenting, where one doesn't have to spend quality time. The actor said that his son once came to him at the age of six, expressing that he (Madhavan) doesn't spend quality time with him (son).The actor recalled telling his son, "Look at that man, my father over there; he never spent quality time with me either… he was there when I needed him. He was a pillar of strength. Philosophically, he was there as a person when I needed support. He funded what I wanted to do, but he instilled the qualities. I love that man dearly, and I’m going to make sure I’m the best son possible for him."The Ajay Sanyal of the 'Dhurandhar' film franchise added, "If you expect me to be this cosmetic father who will come to all your school games and expect, that's not going to be me… But if you ever need any help… I will always be on your side." In the same conversation, R. Madhavan shared that he encourages his son to live life without any hesitation and not compare it to anyone else's. He said, "Live life like an Indian kid… go out and play. Don’t feel insecure about the fact that people are telling you my father did this and my father didn’t do that. I could have done so many things, but I don’t regret it at all."Currently, the actor is basking in the success of 'Dhurandhar: The Revenge,' directed by Aditya Dhar. The film has crossed over Rs 680 crore in 9 days since its release in theaters. Starring Ranveer Singh in the lead, the film's star cast includes Sanjay Dutt, Arjun Rampal, Rakesh Bedi, Sara Arjun, R. Madhavan, and more. It was released in theaters on March 19, 2026.