A child’s biggest achievement can become a parent’s proudest moment. But what happens after the applause fades? How parents respond to a child’s success can shape the way they handle their next failure, challenge or expectation. Former Indian cricketer Virender Sehwag shared this through a Instagram post celebrating his son Aaryavir Sehwag’s performance in the U-19 Asia Cup 2026. His message carried a reminder about staying grounded, working hard and remembering what matters beyond trophies.
Celebrate the achievement, but remind children that success is bigger than a trophy
Aaryavir had plenty to celebrate after India’s dramatic one-wicket victory over Pakistan in the U-19 Asia Cup final. He scored 58 off 61 balls and finished the tournament with 361 runs in five innings, earning the Player of the Tournament award.
5 Oct 2026 | 12:06
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But Sehwag’s Instagram caption focused on something beyond the numbers. He wrote, “Some moments are bigger than awards, runs and trophies. These are the memories a father will cherish forever.”He also wished that his son would always keep his feet firmly on the ground while reaching for greater heights through hard work and talent.It is a meaningful distinction for parents. Children should feel proud of what they achieve, but they should also understand that a medal does not determine their worth. A parent’s appreciation should not disappear when the next result is less impressive.Watch the video here:ID@undefined Caption not available.ID@undefined Caption not available.
Make room for nervousness instead of expecting children to be fearless
One of the most touching moments from Sehwag’s video call with Aaryavir was his admission: “Papa, I was so nervous… was just chanting Sita Ram, Sita Ram!”The young cricketer was recalling the tense final moments of the match. Despite his impressive performance, he was still a teenager experiencing the pressure of a major sporting occasion.This is an important reminder for parents who expect children to remain confident all the time. Even children who appear capable and composed can feel anxious when the stakes are high.Rather than dismissing nervousness as weakness, parents can make children feel comfortable talking about it. Sometimes, a child does not need a lecture or an immediate solution. They simply need to know that feeling scared does not make their achievement any smaller.
Prepare children for comparisons instead of allowing them to define their identity
Being Virender Sehwag’s son comes with its own expectations. Cricket fans will naturally compare Aaryavir’s batting with that of his father, one of India’s most celebrated opening batters.Sehwag has addressed this pressure in a recent interview with The Indian Express. He revealed that he has been preparing both his sons, Aaryavir and Vedant, for comparisons and criticism from childhood.His advice was straightforward: they should understand that comparisons will happen but focus on playing their own game.This is a valuable parenting lesson beyond sports. Children of successful parents can sometimes feel that they must match an established reputation. Parents can help by making it clear that a family legacy is not a performance target. Children deserve the freedom to build an identity that belongs to them.
Let children understand the value of what they earn
Sehwag also spoke about teaching his sons financial responsibility. In a conversation on The Life Savers Show, he explained that his sons had started understanding the value of money after earning through cricket.He shared that spending from their own bank accounts made everyday expenses feel different. He gave the example of his sons spending Rs 7,000 on petrol and realising what that amount meant.Children may hear repeated advice about money, but responsibility becomes clearer when they experience the value of earning and spending it themselves.
