June 13, 2016 10:48 am Mom of the Week – Dita Bhargava, A Voice for Positive Change in CT
What do you love to do with your children? How old are they? And what is your greatest wish for them?
My children are my greatest joy! At ages 7 and 5, they keep me on my toes. My husband and I encourage our kids to constantly explore and challenge themselves. We wish for them to live life to its fullest and with passion. I love living vicariously through my kids!
When and where are you the happiest?
We have a family tradition to watch movies cuddled under the blanket on Sunday afternoons. My five-year-old son reminds me every week to get the popcorn and hot chocolate ready!
If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go?
Can it involve a time machine? I love learning about ancient civilization. My grandparents lived in India. I have been lucky to have visited them many times. I’ve seen numerous ancient Indian temples, structures, palaces and beauty. I took my kids to India for the first time last year and they loved it. I would like to travel to countries such as Italy, Greece and Peru with my kids to explore other historic cultures with them.
Who has had the biggest influence upon you? And what quality do you most admire in a mother?
My mother has been the biggest influence and inspiration in my life. As a single immigrant parent of three, my mother had to work hard to provide for us. When I had my own children, it made me reflect on what an incredible person my mother is to have raised my sisters and me on her own while always managing to be our pillar and best friend.
My mom’s influence is a major factor in my decision to run for State Representative for the 151st District of Greenwich this year. I believe in strong family units. I am passionate about ensuring that our families have the support they require to lead healthy, vibrant lives. That our children have access to the best possible education and resources and that our elderly generation has the comfort and support network they need. And that every family and person has a fair chance without discrimination.
What do you like to do for fun?
Family vacations are the best! Whether it’s to see another country and discover new cultures, skiing in the winter or just hanging out at a beach, spending time with my family is so much fun!
What is one of your favorite books? Movies?
Galapagos by Kurt Vonnegut. The Sound of Music and Shawshank Redemption are two movies that I think are timeless.
Besides motherhood, what other careers/opportunities have you enjoyed? What are your strongest qualities?
Following a two-decade career in the financial sector, I retired last December to fully shift my focus to the non-profit world. Over the last several years, I have had the privilege and opportunity to sit on the Board of several non-profit organizations including The India Cultural Center of Greenwich, The Parity Partnership and The Urban League of Southern Connecticut. This has allowed me to help enact positive change on many of the issues that I am passionate about including cultural diversity, gender parity and empowering underserved communities.
What is your favorite type of food and what do you love to cook?
I enjoy many types of food, including Indian, Italian and Mexican to name a few. I also like to try new recipes in all these cuisines! My favorite cooking time is when my kids are experimenting with me!
What is your favorite time of the day and why?
Before bedtime, when the kids and I find time to read together is the best time of the day!
Where is your favorite place to Party with Moms and what’s your favorite drink?
I love meeting moms for drinks or dinner at different places around Greenwich. Usually a nice glass or two of red wine is on the menu!
To learn more about Dita visit her website
