Malaika Arora holds inconsolable mother Joyce as family leaves for Anil Mehta's last rites

New Delhi, India

The death of actor Malaika Arora's father, Anil Mehta, has sent shockwaves across the country. A day after Anil's shocking death, Malaika was spotted with her mother Joyce Polycarp outside their residence as they were leaving for the funeral of her late father.

The last rites will take place at the Santacruz Hindu Crematorium in Mumbai on Thursday (Sep 12).

Malaika and her son Arhaan, who was holding her inconsolable grandmother, were spotted outside their residence. Many celebrities, including Arjun Kapoor, Arbaaz Khan, and his wife Shura Khan, were seen arriving at the crematorium.

Malaika's friends Kareena Kapoor Khan, Saif Ali Khan, Karisma Kapoor, and others were also spotted at the crematorium.

On Wednesday (Sep 11), Malaika's father Anil allegedly died by suicide after jumping off the terrace of his residence in Bandra. Police officers are currently investigating the case. 

Hours after Malaika's father's death, an official statement was released. 

"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. We appreciate your understanding, support, and respect," actress-model Malaika Arora posted on her social media handle. 

For the unversed, Malika and Amrita's mother, Joyce and Anil parted ways when Malaika was just 11 years old and her sister Amrita was 6. 

In her statement to the police, Joyce said they started living together again a few years ago despite being divorced. 

Talking about the morning when the incident took place, Joyce said that Anil had a daily habit of sitting on the balcony in the morning, where he used to read the newspapers. However, on Wednesday, she noticed Anil's slippers in the living room around 9 am, after which she went to the balcony looking for him. 

However, when she leaned over the balcony railing to look below, she saw the building’s watchman was shouting for help.

"That was when I realised something was wrong," she reportedly told the police.

As per sources, Anil contacted both of his daughters before his death. 

(If you or someone you know wants help for mental well-being, don't hesitate to talk to a professional. You can contact local authorities and also encourage the person to contact a suicide prevention hotline. WION does not make any recommendations.)