Last update:04 November 2024, 6:59 p.m. IST

Over time, the 5-year-old chef from Mysuru even learned to prepare a few dishes independently, including chapati, dosa, tomato bhaat (rice), and pulao.

Atharva’s mother taught him about spices and pulses.

In today’s digital age, children are increasingly attracted to screens. From smartphones to tablets to televisions, these devices have become deeply ingrained in their daily lives. However, amid this screen-dominated era, the heartwarming story of a 5-year-old from Mysuru has gained attention online. While most kids are glued to their phones and TVs, this young boy is bucking the trend by adopting a unique and healthy way to spend his vacation: cooking.

Yes, imagine this: 5-year-old Atharva showed keen interest in learning to cook from her mother rather than spending her school holidays on mobile devices or in front of the TV. Seeing his enthusiasm, Atharva’s mother Vidya encouraged him, teaching him about spices and pulses and sharing her culinary knowledge.

Srividya’s son Atharva, a resident of Mandya town, now prepares meals for the family alongside his mother. Sometimes he stands beside her, observing her as she cooks, absorbing her methods and techniques. Over time, this young chef even learned to prepare a few dishes independently including chapati, dosa, tomato bhaat (rice) and pulao.

Atharva’s parents run a candle business. Her story reminds us that, despite the digital age, it is essential to encourage children to explore traditional interests and discover the joy of simpler pleasures. Engaging in activities like cooking not only stimulates creativity and imagination, but also reduces excessive screen time. Although technology offers many benefits, excessive exposure to screens can impact children’s physical, mental and emotional well-being.

In another endearing story that went viral, the mother of a 5-year-old boy shared her unexpected Christmas wish list on Instagram, revealing her son’s obsession with a South Korean singer. The music video shows the mother explaining her child’s unique Christmas request: he wants Jungkook himself as a Christmas present. Yes, you read that correctly.

In the clip, the mother says: “I’m going to tell you why it’s hard for me to do my 5-year-old’s Christmas shopping. He has three interests: one, cats – we have four; second, stuffed animals – he has too many; and three, Jungkook. If I could give Jungkook himself for Christmas, I absolutely would. Where can I get it?”

Jungkook, the youngest member of BTS, is currently serving his mandatory military service in South Korea, alongside other BTS members.