Malaika Arora Pays Tribute to Her Late Father with a Heartfelt Project

The actress opens up about honoring her father’s legacy and finding strength through her grief, hinting at a meaningful upcoming announcement.

Malaika Arora recently revealed details about a deeply personal project that she is working on to honor her late father, Anil Kuldeep Mehta, who tragically passed away in September after falling from his apartment in Mumbai’s Bandra neighborhood. Reflecting on her loss and her father’s influence, Malaika shared, “We all need to keep moving forward… that’s what my father would have wanted for me. I’m grateful for the time I took to process the loss. It wasn’t easy, but it’s important to give ourselves space to heal.”

Returning to work has helped Malaika regain focus and maintain her mental health. She expressed gratitude for the brands she’s currently collaborating with and excitement about exploring new creative endeavors. Teasing her upcoming project, she added, “I’m working on something special that I will announce soon—it’s going to be an ode to my father.”

Malaika’s journey has been shaped by her family’s experiences. She moved to Chembur with her mother and sister, actress Amrita Arora, after her parents separated when she was just 11. Her father, a Punjabi who served in the Indian Merchant Navy, and her mother, Joyce Polycarp, a Malayali Christian, instilled resilience and love in their family. Following her father’s passing, Malaika posted a heartfelt tribute, calling him a “gentle soul, a devoted grandfather, a loving husband, and our best friend.”

The family has requested privacy during this time, expressing their gratitude for the public’s understanding and respect. “With gratitude, Joyce, Malaika, Amrita, Shakeel, Arhaan, Azaan, Rayyan, Casper, Axl, Duffy & Buddy,” Malaika’s statement concluded, a tender reminder of the love and support surrounding her.