Kanika Mann Opens Up About Hiding Dance and Debate Competitions From Her Parents: "

Kanika Mann recently opened up about growing up in a strict middle-class household where extracurricular activities were often viewed as distractions from academics. Speaking on a podcast with Hauterrfly, the actress revealed that her parents discouraged her from participating in debates, dance competitions, and other school activities because they feared she would lose focus on studies and become fond of attention.

Strict Rules Around Activities:

When asked about the restrictions she faced during childhood, Kanika clarified that staying out late was never an issue because she naturally preferred being at home. However, she struggled with being barred from participating in extracurricular activities.

“The restrictions I had a problem with were things like not being allowed to participate in extracurricular activities at school. They used to think that I would get distracted and that my attention would move away from studies,” she shared.

Kanika revealed that her parents were particularly uncomfortable with the idea of her being on stage. “They thought that maybe I would start liking the attention I got when I was on stage,” she said. According to her, they worried that enjoying that attention could eventually “go to my head.”

Photo Credit: Instagram

Excelling In Academics:

Despite wanting to explore activities beyond the classroom, Kanika said academics remained a top priority throughout her childhood. “I used to love studying. Since childhood, I had mostly studied. I was not doing anything else. I really liked studying and I used to top my class,” she recalled.

At the time, she had no plans of becoming an actor. “I never had clarity that I wanted to do music videos or become an actor. But I thought, ‘I can try this too. Why not?'”

Participating In Secret:

Determined not to miss opportunities, Kanika admitted that she secretly took part in school events. “Sometimes I even participated in debates without telling my parents. Those were not allowed either. I participated in debates and dance competitions without telling them,” she said, adding, “I did it secretly. I did not tell them.”

Her secret eventually came out during a school annual function when she returned home with multiple prizes. Until then, her parents only knew about the trophy she had won for topping her class.

Finding A Balance:

Kanika, who is the eldest of three siblings, believes her stubbornness helped her push through restrictions. Looking back, her story highlights an important lesson for parents. Academic excellence and extracurricular activities do not always have to compete. With the right balance of time, discipline, and support, children can pursue both studies and personal interests while developing confidence and valuable life skills.