Because cooking is not a woman’s duty—it’s a basic life skill, just like managing finances or driving. In most Indian homes, the kitchen is still seen as the woman’s space, even when both partners are working full-time.
This creates an unfair mental and physical burden on women, often leading to burnout. When men learn to cook and participate in everyday meals, they don’t just ease that pressure—they show respect, share responsibility, and set an example for their children.
Cooking also fosters independence; whether you’re single, married, or a father, being able to feed yourself and others is empowering.
In today’s world, where equality is discussed in boardrooms and classrooms, it must begin at home—starting in the kitchen. A man who cooks doesn’t lose respect; he earns it.
Not by “helping” once in a while, but by becoming a consistent and willing part of the household rhythm.
Why It’s Time Indian Men Start Cooking – Seriously
1. To End Generational Gender Imbalance
Cooking isn’t just about food—it’s about equality. When boys grow up seeing only their mothers cook, they internalise that cooking is “beneath them” or “not their job.” This conditioning has to end. Men must model new behaviour so children grow up with the right example.
2. To Be a Real Partner in Life
Being a supportive partner means sharing responsibilities—not outsourcing them. Making tea for your wife, packing lunch for your child, or cooking a meal when your partner is unwell—these are gestures of care that go beyond romance. They build real connection.
3. To Grow Emotionally Stronger
Believe it or not, cooking is therapeutic. It calms the mind, teaches patience, and allows you to be creative. Many psychologists recommend basic cooking as a stress-relief activity for men dealing with anxiety or work burnout.
4. For Survival and Independence
What happens if you’re living alone, working night shifts, or caring for a sick parent? Swiggy and Zomato aren’t long-term solutions. Cooking gives you control over your health, money, and independence.
Let’s Bust Some Common Myths
| Myth | Reality |
|---|---|
| Cooking is for women | Cooking is a life skill, not a gender role |
| I don’t have time | So do working women, and they still manage |
| I’ll help when asked | Real contribution means taking initiative |
| I don’t know how | YouTube, cooking apps, or your own mom can teach you |
Real Men, Real Kitchens: India’s New Role Models
From Bollywood to social media, Indian men are slowly stepping into aprons—and winning hearts while doing it.
- Ranveer Brar and Kunal Kapur have made gourmet cooking aspirational for Indian men.
- Virat Kohli often shares how he learned to cook and eat clean for his health.
- On Instagram, thousands of “dad cooks” and “husband chefs” now post their efforts, and their families love them for it.
This isn’t a trend. It’s a movement.
How to Begin: No Need to Master Butter Chicken on Day One
Start with the basics:
Learn These 5 Beginner Meals:
- Poha or Upma
- Dal-Chawal or Khichdi
- Simple Roti-Sabzi
- Boiled eggs or Masala Omelette
- Vegetable Pulao or Fried Rice
Pick a Day:
Take charge of Sunday breakfast or Saturday dinner. Make it your responsibility from planning to plating.
Take Ownership:
Don’t just chop onions and ask, “Now what?” Instead, take full control of the meal once a week. Eventually, increase the frequency.
What Women Secretly Want (But May Not Say)
Many women won’t ask their husbands or sons to cook—either due to cultural expectations or fear of being dismissed. But the truth is: every woman hopes for a home where she’s not the default cook.
When men cook:
- Women feel seen, respected, and valued
- Relationships improve with shared responsibility
- Children learn what equality looks like in action
Final Thoughts: It’s Not About Perfect Cooking—It’s About Real Effor
We don’t need every Indian man to become a master chef. We need them to step into the kitchen, not as a favour, but as a shared duty.
Let’s raise boys who can stir a pot of dal with the same confidence as they run a company. Let’s raise men who know that real strength is in contribution—not control.
The Indian kitchen belongs to everyone. It’s time men stop visiting it—and start owning it.
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