Cooking Isn't a Must-Have Skill for Women, Says Nushrratt Bharuccha
Nushrratt Bharuccha is known for her candid interviews and strong opinions, especially when it comes to women’s choices and societal expectations. Recently, she made a bold yet deeply personal statement that struck a chord with many women—she chose not to learn cooking. And the reason wasn’t laziness or disinterest, but something rooted in her childhood memories, her mother’s routine, and a quiet resistance to a deeply gendered expectation.
In a culture where cooking is still seen as an essential skill for women, especially in traditional households, her stance is not just rare—it’s revolutionary.
The Origins of Her Choice: Watching Her Mother
For Nushrratt, the decision was shaped by years of observation. She grew up seeing her mother in the kitchen for a large part of the day. The routine, the pressure, the expectation—all of it formed a vivid picture of how a woman’s role is often restricted to domestic spaces, especially the kitchen.
Instead of taking inspiration to learn recipes or enjoy the process, she internalized a very different lesson. “I saw how much time, effort, and energy my mother poured into cooking every day. Somewhere, it made me feel that her entire day revolved around making food for others,” she said in an interview.
For young Nushrratt, this became symbolic. It wasn’t about food—it was about freedom. And she knew early on that she wanted a different kind of life.
Breaking a Tradition, Not Disrespecting It
Critics might argue that this is disrespectful to tradition or undervaluing a homemaker’s role. But Nushrratt is clear in her stance—she deeply respects her mother and everything she did for the family. Her decision is not to demean that work, but to assert a different path for herself.
“It’s not that I don’t value cooking. It’s just that I don’t want it to be the centre of my existence. I’d rather microwave food if I have to, or order in. And I’m okay with that,” she says.
It’s a subtle yet firm act of agency—choosing not to do something just because it’s expected of you.
Women, Kitchens, and Expectations
For decades, Indian society—like many others—has linked a woman’s worth to her domestic abilities, especially cooking. Whether it’s arranged marriage bios that list “good cook” as a plus, or advertisements that show daughters-in-law serving tea and snacks, the narrative is deeply embedded in our culture.
Even today, many young women are pressured to learn how to cook, not out of passion, but obligation. It’s often disguised as a rite of passage or preparation for marriage.
In that context, Nushrratt’s stance becomes more than personal—it becomes symbolic of a broader shift.
Microwave Me Bhi Khaana Banaungi: Redefining the Norm
When Nushrratt said, “Microwave me bhi khaana banaungi toh chalega,” it wasn’t just about technology—it was about reimagining the act of cooking itself.
For her, the microwave isn’t just a convenience—it’s a tool of rebellion. It means she’s choosing the easier path when she wants, not because she can’t do better, but because she doesn’t want to fit into a rigid mold. It’s her way of saying: I don’t need to cook from scratch to prove I’m capable or caring.
This defiance isn’t loud or aggressive—it’s practical, everyday feminism in action.
The Cultural Pushback—and Why It Doesn’t Bother Her
Naturally, such statements often invite criticism. From social media trolls to conservative voices, many are quick to label women like Nushrratt as “too modern” or “irresponsible.”
But the actress doesn’t flinch. Her career choices—from bold films to experimental roles—mirror her personal values. She believes women should be free to choose what suits them best, whether that’s being a full-time homemaker, a chef, a corporate leader—or none of the above.
“I’ve seen women being judged for not knowing how to cook, as if it’s the only measure of their contribution. That needs to change,” she adds.
The Modern Woman and Redefined Domesticity
Nushrratt is part of a growing tribe of women who are questioning and rewriting age-old definitions of domesticity. They are not against the kitchen, but they want it to be a place of choice, not compulsion.
Many urban women today are outsourcing cooking, relying on cloud kitchens, eating healthy takeout, or sharing chores with their partners. The idea that cooking equals love or responsibility is slowly being replaced by more balanced equations at home.
Men are also stepping in—cooking, cleaning, and breaking their own gender roles. Nushrratt’s decision fits perfectly into this broader cultural evolution.
Food Doesn’t Define Family
One of the most powerful takeaways from Nushrratt’s statement is that family and love aren’t built on rotis and curries alone. Emotional presence, shared moments, mutual respect—these are what really sustain relationships.
A woman can express care without being in the kitchen all day. She can be successful, supportive, and nurturing without ever lifting a ladle. And she doesn’t need to justify that to anyone.
Owning the Narrative: Why Her Story Matters
For every Nushrratt who speaks up, there are thousands of women quietly pushing back at home—refusing to cook, negotiating shared responsibilities, or choosing careers over domesticity. Her story, amplified by her celebrity, gives voice to all those personal revolutions.
It tells young girls that they don’t have to internalize guilt if they don’t enjoy traditional roles. It tells mothers that their daughters can love them deeply even if they choose a different path. And it tells society that roles are not destinies—they’re choices.
Freedom is in the Little Things
Nushrratt Bharuccha’s decision to not learn cooking isn’t just about food. It’s about freedom. It’s about rewriting a script that has run in millions of homes for centuries. And it’s about finding identity beyond apron strings and rolling pins.
So the next time someone says, “Learn how to cook, you’ll need it one day,” perhaps the right response is: “Maybe. But only if I want to.”
Because sometimes, the microwave isn’t just an appliance—it’s a quiet revolution.