Malaika Arora's heartfelt note for Anil Mehta raised confusion among the masses because of their different surnames. Read on to know the truth about their relationship.
The fateful day of September 11, 2024, turned Malaika Arora’s and her family’s life upside down. The actress lost her father, Anil Mehta, after he reportedly jumped from the sixth floor of his building in Bandra. The reason behind Anil’s suicide is not yet known, and the investigation is still going on. Malaika was in Pune when she got the devastating news, and without wasting any time, she rushed to Mumbai.
After undergoing through emotional turmoil, Malaika penned a heart-wrenching note for Anil Mehta. Sharing a monochrome photo, Malaika penned:
“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 the loss, and we kindly request privacy from the media and well-wishers during this difficult times. We appreciate your understanding, support and respect."
As soon as Malaika posted the note for Anil Mehta, people started questioning the father-daughter duo’s different surnames. While Malaika’s surname is Arora, her father’s last name was Mehta. People soon started enquiring whether Anil Mehta was Malaika’s stepfather. Not just this, Anil Mehta’s age was 62, but Malaika is 50, which added more confusion to their relationship.
Amid the ongoing confusion, a source close to the family confirmed to the media outlets that Anil Kuldip Mehta was Malaika Arora’s stepfather. Her biological father’s name is Anil Arora, who was a Punjabi and worked in the Indian Merchant Navy, while her mother, Joyce Polycarp, is a Malayali Christian.
Anil Kuldip Mehta was Joyce Polycarp’s second husband and Malaika and Amrita’s stepdad. It is also noted that the difference between Malaika and her stepdad, Anil, was just 11 years, as he was 62, and the actress was 50.
Malaika Arora’s parents parted ways when she was 11, and after her parents’ divorce, Malaika moved from Thane to Chembur with her mother and younger sister, Amrita Arora. At that time, Malaika’s sister, Amrita was six years old. In an interview with a leading publication, Malaika talked about her parent's separation and said:
“My parents' separation allowed me to observe my mother through a new and unique lens. I learned a rock-steady work ethic and the value of getting up each morning to do whatever it takes to become fiercely independent. Those early lessons are the cornerstones of my life and professional journey. I am still fiercely independent; I value my freedom and live life on my terms.”
According to reports, Joyce gave a detailed statement to police officials after her husband's demise. If sources are to be believed, Malaika’s mother said that Anil used to sit on the balcony and read the newspapers every morning.
Joyce further shared that she saw her ex-husband, Anil’s slippers, in the living room early in the morning. So, she went to the balcony to look for him. However, she could not find him there. Suddenly, she heard the building watchman shouting for help. So, she leaned over the balcony to see below and found her husband lying on the ground. As soon as he was rushed to the hospital, Anil Mehta was declared dead.
Are you also surprised to know the shocking truth about Malaika Arora and Anil Mehta’s relationship? Let us know.
Also Read: Who Is Malaika Arora's Mom, Joyce Polycarp? Food Influencer, Married Twice, Husband Died By Suicide