The Bollywood fraternity came together in mourning Friday as fashion icon Manish Malhotra cremated his beloved mother at Santacruz crematorium. Garima Malhotra’s sudden demise on Thursday evening cast a shadow over the vibrant industry she indirectly helped illuminate through her son’s rise. Hindu rituals marked the somber ceremony, with a galaxy of celebrities turning up to console the bereaved designer.
Prominent figures including Karan Johar, Urmila Matondkar, Rakul Preet Singh, Jackie Bhagnani, David Dhawan, Vijay Varma, Fatima Sana Shaikh, Malaika Arora, Karan Thakkar, Freddy Daruwala, Nidhi Dutta, Sophie Chaudhary, and Mohit Marwah assembled at the venue. Their presence outside the ghats symbolized the profound respect Manish commands in tinsel town.
Condolences had already started flowing at Manish’s home prior to the funeral. The power couple Abhishek and Aishwarya Bachchan, along with Sidharth Malhotra and Kiara Advani, visited to share their grief, highlighting the personal ties that bind Hollywood’s fashion maestro to its biggest names.
Renowned for his bridal collections and opulent film costumes, Manish Malhotra has dressed Bollywood’s leading ladies in unforgettable looks. His journey from aspiring actor to powerhouse producer and designer owes much to Garima’s steadfast backing. During his struggling phase, her emotional support and advice to stay rooted were invaluable, guiding him through career uncertainties to superstardom.
Manish’s production credits include films such as ‘Gustaakh Ishq’ and ‘Saali Mohabbat’, expanding his influence beyond the ateliers. Garima’s role in nurturing his dreams resonates deeply today, as peers recount her warmth and wisdom. This collective grief serves as a testament to her impact, not only on her son but on the glittering world he inhabits. Bollywood’s stars pledge to carry forward her legacy of perseverance amid the pain of parting.