Suniel Shetty Faces Criticism, Says Daughter Athiya Often Says, “Papa, Why Did You Talk?”

Suniel Shetty Admits Daughter Athiya Keeps Him in Check Amid Criticism Over His Comments

Iconic Hera Pheri actor Suniel Shetty has found himself at the centre of controversy following a series of remarks that many have labelled as outdated, patriarchal, and tone-deaf. His recent comments on natural childbirth and traditional gender roles have drawn heavy criticism across social media platforms — and even prompted a firm response from his daughter, actress Athiya Shetty.

ALSO READ: Mallika Sherawat Confirms She Will Not Join Bigg Boss 19

Shetty admitted that Athiya often keeps a close eye on his public statements. “She tracks all my interviews, and honestly, that’s the only person I fear. I have Athiya at home saying, ‘Papa, why did you talk? Just say no comment!’” he shared, acknowledging that his daughter has had to step in to manage the fallout of his patriarchal & controversial opinions.

The backlash began when Shetty, in an earlier interview, praised Athiya for choosing a natural delivery over a C-section, saying, “In a world where everybody wants the comfort of having a caesarean baby, she chose not to do that.” His statement implied that those who opt for medically necessary C-sections are taking the “easy way out” — a notion widely condemned by medical professionals and women alike for being both factually wrong and insensitive.

Shetty didn’t stop there. In another interview with, he ventured into even more regressive territory, saying, “If the husband is building his career, [the wife] will need to take care of the child.” While he did add that the husband would “also be involved,” his broader point suggested a rigid return to traditional gender roles, a perspective many feel belongs in another era.

Perhaps Athiya’s influence signals that even deeply ingrained views can be softened when guided by the next generation, one that demands empathy.