Kalki Koechlin says it 'breaks my heart' when daughter Sappho calls herself 'ugly': 'I think about raising a powerful girl all the time'

July 18, 2026 - 05:12

Bollywood actress Kalki Koechlin recently shared a deeply personal parenting moment that left her emotional. She revealed that it breaks her heart when her five-year-old daughter Sappho calls herself ugly. The actress said she constantly thinks about raising a powerful and independent girl, and these moments force her to confront how children see themselves.

Speaking about the incident, Koechlin explained that hearing such words from a young child is a wake-up call for any parent. She believes it is not just about correcting the child but about understanding where those thoughts come from. The actress emphasized that she uses these moments to talk to Sappho about self-worth and inner strength rather than just appearance.

Koechlin also reflected on the broader responsibility of raising a daughter in a world that often judges women by their looks. She said she wants Sappho to grow up knowing her value goes far beyond what she sees in the mirror. The actress added that parenting is a constant learning process, and she tries to be mindful of the language she uses at home.

This honest admission from Koechlin has resonated with many parents who face similar challenges. It highlights the importance of building confidence in children from an early age, especially in a society that often pressures girls to look a certain way.