Lara Dutta’s tribute to father Wing Commander LK Dutta echoes love & strength in face of loss

Lara Dutta has shared a deeply personal note mourning the loss of her father, retired Wing Commander LK Dutta, who passed away in Mumbai on 31 May at the age of 84. The actress took to social media to honour his memory, remembering him not only as a parent but also as a fighter who confronted illness with dignity.

In her emotional post, Lara began by writing, “My wonderful, brave, fighter of a father, went quietly into the good night on the 31st of May.” She described how he battled a difficult illness over the last few months, enduring pain with the strength and resilience of a soldier. “He bore pain with the stoicism of a battle-worn soldier and displayed a courage and willingness to beat the odds, that sometimes defied all logic,” she added.

Lara also reflected on childhood memories that she said are “etched into her bones forever.” Recalling the simpler joys of growing up with her father, she wrote about standing on his feet to learn to waltz, watching stars on his shoulders, and listening to Richard Clayderman’s music while pretending to play the piano. She fondly remembered their walks through eucalyptus groves and the dreams they shared.

Beyond nostalgia, her note also recognised the life lessons he instilled in her. “I learnt to debate, argue, negotiate, reason and dazzle from my father,” she noted. He taught her to stay strong during hard times, to find joy in small pleasures like ice cream and chips, and to carry responsibilities with grace. She continued, “I learnt to be brave, I learnt to be fearless, I learnt to stand up for myself and for others… I learnt to try and be selfless.”

Lara concluded the post with the line, “I carry your heart dad…… I carry it in my heart.” While the actress received condolences from colleagues and fans alike, her message served as a quiet yet powerful reflection on loss, love, and a legacy that lives on through the values passed down from father to daughter.