“We Can’t Teach Children To Love Nature Unless We Take Them Into Nature”: Dia Mirza On All About Her

Actor and author Soha Ali Khan continues to make All About Her a space for meaningful conversations that inspire reflection and action. Marking World Environment Day, the latest episode features renowned actor, producer, and UN Environment Goodwill Ambassador Dia Mirza, along with acclaimed author and photographer Aarti Kumar-Rao, in a thought-provoking conversation about purpose, happiness, and the deep connection between people and the natural world. Through personal anecdotes and life lessons, the episode explores how aligning with one's values can lead to a more fulfilling life and a greater sense of responsibility towards the planet.

During the conversation, Soha reflected on how becoming a parent had made her think more deeply about the future of the planet and asked Dia and Aarti how motherhood had shaped their relationship with nature and influenced the way they pass on those values to their children. Sharing her perspective, Dia said, "I think you experience a cellular shift when you become a parent. You become so awake and alive to every moment. It inspires me to do much more than I possibly would have otherwise. I cared deeply about the environment even before Avyaan was born, but when he came along, that feeling became even more heightened. I don't think we can teach children to love, respect, and care for nature unless we take them into nature. Avyaan wakes up to birdsong, watches butterflies and bees, and has visited more wildlife sanctuaries in his four years than many adults I know. We regularly explore green spaces together, and through those experiences, he has developed a genuine connection with the natural world. At home, we focus on simple habits such as turning off the tap while brushing teeth or washing hands. More importantly, we practice gratitude. After every meal, Avyaan thanks the person who cooked his food, the farmer who grew it, and Mother Earth. It helps him understand where his food, water, and resources come from. We try to place greater value on experiences rather than material things, even while raising him in a highly consumptive urban environment."

In this special World Environment Day conversation, All About Her highlights how personal stories and family values can shape a lifelong commitment to protecting the planet. Through candid reflections from Dia Mirza and thoughtful insights from Aarti Kumar-Rao, the episode offers an inspiring reminder that meaningful change often begins with the choices we make every day.

~ Watch the latest episode of Soha Ali Khan's All About Her, streaming tomorrow at 11:00 AM on YouTube. ~