The news of Malaika Arora’s father’s death shocked the whole industry and followers. As the actress announced the tragic news on Instagram, asking for solitude during this difficult time, followers were intrigued by his surname. Was Anil Kuldip Mehta, her stepfather despite being just 11 years older? The age differences, along with the persistent mystery surrounding her surname, has created a surge of curiosity.
Anil Kuldip Mehta was 62 years old, according to the police. Malaika Arora’s age has been a topic of conversation among fans after it was revealed that she is 51. The Bollywood actress and her father have only an 12-year age gap. Furthermore, they each have different surnames. Her father’s surname is Mehta, but Malaika’s is Arora. Her mother, Joyce Polycarp is a Christian. So Malaika does not use her mother’s or father’s surnames. Does this imply Anil Mehta was her stepfather?
While the family has not made a formal declaration, and the message refers to him as “father,” a source confirmed that he was Malaika’s stepfather. For the uninitiated, Malaika previously disclosed that her parents separated when she was 11 years old, and that their mother raised her and her younger sister Amrita Arora, who was just six at the time. The family moved from Thane to Chembur after the incident, where Joyce looked after them. Some accounts indicate her biological father’s name was Anil Arora, which has caused confusion. No confirmation can be provided until an official announcement.
Despite Malaika’s response, many expressed their disbelief on social media. One user asked, “How come her last name is Arora and her father’s last name is Mehta?” Another assumed about a stepfather, while another pointed out the remarkable age differences, asking how her father could be only 12 years older than her. Today is Anil Mehta’s funeral; he reportedly made his last phone call to his daughters, Amrita and Malaika. “I’m sick and tired,” were his final words.
Malaika’s Instagram post read: “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.”
