Lara Dutta's father Wing Commander L.K. Dutta passes away; actress performs last rites

Bollywood actress and former Miss Universe Lara Dutta is going through a heartbreaking time as she mourns the loss of her father, Wing Commander L.K. Dutta. The senior officer of the Indian Air Force passed away recently, and Lara, along with her husband Mahesh Bhupathi, was seen attending his last rites in Mumbai. Pictures from the solemn ceremony have surfaced online, showing the actress holding herself together through the emotional farewell.

The late Wing Commander Dutta had a distinguished career in the Indian Air Force. A true patriot, he served the country in three major wars, in 1965, 1969, and 1971. Lara has often spoken with pride about her father’s service and resilience.

In an earlier interview on the YouTube talk show Tellis Like It Is, she shared how he joined the Air Force straight from the NDA and flew helicopters throughout his career. At just 41, he suffered a heart attack that forced him to retire from flying, leaving him to start life afresh while raising three children, the youngest being only three years old. Despite the challenges, he remained a strong pillar for his family.

The actress, who marked 25 years of her Miss Universe win earlier this month, shared an emotional Instagram post on May 12, her father's birthday remembering him with love. “Yesterday was a day of roller coaster emotions… Not just my Dad’s birthday, but also the day I won Miss Universe, 25 years ago! Marked the day with a puja to celebrate my father’s life, knowing well how fleeting and fragile life is,” she wrote. The heartfelt caption reflected her deep bond with her father and the values he instilled in her.

Lara’s fans and the film fraternity have been offering their condolences and support during this difficult time. On the professional front, Lara is gearing up for her next film, Welcome to the Jungle, which reunites her with Akshay Kumar.