Fortis Mamma Mia, that offers maternity services to both expecting mothers and young mums, recently organized a panel discussion on pregnancy and parenting in Gurgaon, along with Penguin Books India. The discussion ranged from the planning stage of pregnancy to a mother’s travails with very young and toddlers. The panelists included Bollywood actor and mother of two Karisma Kapoor, Ishi Khosla, consultant nutritionist, Shruti Saxena, pre- and post-natal fitness trainer, and Anika Parashar Puri, child birth educator and COO, Fortis Mamma Mia.
The highlight of the event was the launch of Kapoor’s first work as an author, My Yummy Mummy Guide, a light-hearted guidebook for first-time mothers, co-authored by Madhuri Banerjee. The book talks about topics like the crucial first trimester and getting back in shape, what to wear while pregnant and still look good, decorating children’s rooms, balancing work life and motherhood, planning memorable children’s parties, growing-up issues, and teen fads.
Asked about why she decided to write this book, Kapoor said, “I wanted to share my journey into motherhood with young and expecting mums, so women can face the challenges that come with the birthing process and yet, cherish the most memorable time of their lives. What better way than to pen down tips of my own personal journey in My Yummy Mummy Guide, a book about managing my pregnancy, losing weight, beauty tips, and disciplining my kids.”
Anika Parashar Puri, chief operating officer, Mamma Mia, said, “The need for community sharing and growing support highlighted in Karisma’s book is the same fuel for the existence of the Fortis Mamma Mia concept, a unique medical facility complemented by holistic services for pregnancy and baby care, inside the protected hospital environment of Fortis.” Puri added, “There is a growing sense of pressure today among contemporary mothers to “have it all”. A desire to lose weight quickly, and get back to work without compromising on feeding routines and care for one’s child. There is also a constant battle of quality time versus quantity, and on the parenting style they adopt. At Mamma Mia, we empower women to cope with the bodily changes and fitness challenges that come with pregnancy, by providing strong emotional support and food for the soul for a wholesome birthing and parenting experience.”