Anil Mehta Funeral: The film industry came together in grief as Anil Mehta, father of Bollywood actress Malaika Arora, was laid to rest at the Santacruz Hindu Crematorium in Mumbai on Thursday. Malaika, who was accompanied by her son, Arhaan Khan, arrived at the crematorium to bid a final farewell to her father.
Bollywood Pay Their Last Respect to Malaika Arora's Father
Several celebrities from the film fraternity, including Malaika’s close friends and colleagues, gathered to pay their last respects. Arjun Kapoor, Kareena Kapoor Khan, and her husband, Saif Ali Khan, were among those who arrived early to offer condolences. Kareena's sister, Karisma Kapoor, was also seen accompanying Saif.
Malaika’s ex-husband, Arbaaz Khan, attended the funeral along with his wife, Sshura Khan, to show support during this difficult time. Filmmaker Farah Khan Kunder, a close friend of Malaika, arrived with her brother, director Sajid Khan, to offer their sympathies. Actor Sohail Khan, accompanied by his son Nirvaan Khan, also paid his respects to the late Anil Mehta.
Other notable figures from the industry, including choreographers Geeta Kapur and Terence Lewis, actress Gauhar Khan, and singer Guru Randhawa, were also present to support the grieving family.
On Wednesday, a day before the cremation, Kareena Kapoor Khan, along with Saif Ali Khan, visited the Arora residence to offer their heartfelt condolences. Visibly emotional, Kareena was seen consoling her friend during this tough time.
Malaika Arora's Father Anil Mehta Passes Away
In a tragic turn of events, the Mumbai police revealed that Anil Mehta’s death, which occurred on September 11, is being investigated as a suspected suicide. DCP Crime Branch Raj Tilak Roshan stated that Mehta’s body had been sent for post-mortem examination, and police and forensic teams are thoroughly investigating the circumstances surrounding his death.
Malaika Arora, who was in Pune at the time of the incident, rushed back to Mumbai upon hearing the devastating news. In an emotional statement shared on Instagram, she expressed the family’s grief:
“We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our dear father, Anil Mehta. He was a gentle soul, a devoted grandfather, a loving husband, and our best friend. Our family is in deep shock by this loss, and we kindly request privacy from the media and well-wishers during this difficult time.”
