UMENCO: As a mother and professional how do you reconcile the expectations of motherhood with the sense of purpose and feelings of fulfilment that a career brings?
Kudrat Makkar: My children are my number one priority, but my career is of high importance. My work keeps me alive, it stimulates, challenges and enriches me. Image crafting and unrealistic images of motherhood are everywhere messing with our sense of self. To find new meaning in the work and family equation, I seek more self-care time. I care for my mind, my soul and believe it is not selfish, it’s good for me and ultimately its good for my family.
UMENCO: Has being a parent changed your approach to the way in which you tap into your creative flow, given the time limitations and structure of family life?
Kudrat Makkar: My approach has surely altered since becoming a mother, I have to now find new ways to be creative, unlike before, when I had all the time to myself. A few approaches which have really worked for me are: taking the time to attend to what is happening in the moment, and noticing what we and those around us need. Making sure I keep aside a chunk of the day to do things which keep my creativity alive. Every season I try to travel alone for a few days or even a weekend to work on the next collection, it has really helped me. I am very lucky to have a support system to help me do things which otherwise wouldn’t have been possible. and I swear by this quote- “Motherhood is the noblest of causes, but it’s not necessary to lose ourselves in the process.” – Amy M. Brinton
All images courtesy of Mastani.
UMENCO: What are the biggest lessons your own mother imparted on you?
Kudrat Makkar: My mother is one of my biggest inspirations, especially when it comes to being a mother; a doting mother who sacrificed a lot for us and still does. My mother always wanted to live her dreams through her children, things she couldn’t pursue in her life she pushed us to, and that’s a huge driving force me. On top of that, her lessons like ‘nothing comes easy’ and ‘you can never fail if you work hard’. And brilliantly balancing emotional and mental health.
UMENCO:What lessons and influence do you hope your children will take from you and how you live your life?
Kudrat Makkar:I am a very simple person, and I really hope in this age and time I would love my children to be good human beings, to stay grounded and down to earth. And I truly believe in teaching by example and hope they learn to work hard just like my husband and me.
Below:
A Mastani dress shot by Jake Terrey for Jane Magazine.
"My mother always wanted to live her dreams through her children, things she couldn’t pursue in her life she pushed us to, and that’s a huge driving force me."
Kudrat Makkar
"My mother always wanted to live her dreams through her children, things she couldn’t pursue in her life she pushed us to, and that’s a huge driving force me."
Kudrat Makkar
A Mastani Story
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