When Malaika Arora Recalled Her Parents' Separation: 'Tough Times Teach You...'

Television personality and model Malaika Arora often shares glimpses of her life with her mother, Joyce Polycarp, but little is known about her father. In a candid interview with Grazia in 2022, Malaika opened up about her childhood and the profound lessons she learned following her parents’ separation. Reflecting on those difficult times, she shared how they shaped her journey toward fierce independence and a strong work ethic.

“I had a wonderful childhood, but it wasn’t easy,” Malaika said during the interview. “In fact, in retrospect, the word I would use to describe it is tumultuous. But tough times teach you important lessons too.” She went on to explain that her parents’ separation allowed her to see her mother through a new perspective. “I learned a rock-steady work ethic and the value of getting up each morning to do whatever it takes to become fiercely independent.”

Malaika was just 11 years old when her parents parted ways, leaving her and her younger sister, actor Amrita Arora, who was only six at the time, in the care of their mother. After the divorce, the family moved from Thane to Chembur, where they were raised by Joyce. Despite the challenges, Malaika credited these formative experiences for teaching her resilience and instilling values that continue to guide her life today. “I am still fiercely independent; I value my freedom and live life on my terms. The world could be going crazy around me, but these fundamental attitudes imbibed during my formative years hold me in good stead,” she added.

In a tragic turn of events, as reported by PTI, Malaika’s father, Anil Mehta, passed away on September 11, 2024 at the age of 62. According to the police, Anil allegedly jumped off the sixth floor of a building in Bandra, Mumbai. He was rushed to the hospital but was declared dead upon arrival. The exact cause behind the incident remains unclear, and an investigation was underway at the time.

A source told PTI, “It’s true that Malaika’s father passed away this morning. They all are shocked because he had no ailment or anything as such.” Further details were expected to emerge as the police continued their inquiries.