“I thought it would be ₹15,000-₹20,000”: Nawazuddin Siddiqui recalls daughter asking for a small bag costing ₹2.5 lakh that shocked him; what parents can learn about setting boundaries

September 2, 2026 - 00:27

Actor Nawazuddin Siddiqui, known for his grounded persona and powerful performances, recently opened up about a moment of disbelief with his daughter during a shopping trip in Dubai. He recalled that while at the Dubai Mall, his daughter pointed to a small handbag she liked. Nawazuddin, assuming it would be a modest purchase, guessed the price to be around Rs 15,000 to Rs 20,000. When he checked the tag, the actual cost was a staggering Rs 2.5 lakh, leaving him completely taken aback.

The actor shared this anecdote to highlight a common parenting challenge: the gap between a child's perception of value and the reality of family finances. For Nawazuddin, who has often spoken about his humble beginnings, such an expense seemed unreasonable for a small accessory. He did not buy the bag, and the incident became a talking point about setting boundaries with children.

What can parents take away from this? The core lesson is about having clear, honest conversations about money early on. Children often gauge wants based on what they see around them, not on the effort required to earn that amount. Instead of reacting with anger or guilt, parents can use such moments to teach financial literacy. Explain the difference between needs and wants, and involve children in age-appropriate budgeting discussions. Setting firm but kind limits, like a fixed spending amount for a trip, helps children understand that luxury is earned, not assumed. It also builds resilience and gratitude, which are far more valuable than any designer label. The key is not to shame the child for asking, but to guide them toward realistic expectations and a healthier relationship with material things.