The Indian film and fashion fraternity is enveloped in a somber atmosphere as they rally around ace designer Manish Malhotra following a profound personal loss. His mother, Garima Malhotra, passed away peacefully on the evening of March 19, 2026, at the age of 94.
The news has sent a wave of grief through the industry, where Manish Malhotra is not just a celebrated couturier but a beloved friend and mentor to generations of stars. As the designer navigates this difficult period, the “who’s who” of Bollywood has arrived at his Mumbai residence to offer condolences and stand in solidarity with the grieving family.
Garima Malhotra, known for her grace and the pivotal role she played in Manish’s life and career, succumbed to age-related ailments. At 94, she had witnessed her son’s meteoric rise from a costume designer to a global fashion mogul. Close family friends describe her as the silent strength behind Manish’s flamboyant creative empire.
The news of her demise broke late Thursday evening, prompting an immediate outpouring of support on social media and in person. The Malhotra residence in Mumbai became a focal point of somber gatherings as the industry paused to honour the matriarch.
In a testament to the deep bonds Manish Malhotra shares with the film industry, a steady stream of celebrities visited his residence throughout the night and early morning. The atmosphere remained heavy as stars arrived in white attire, reflecting the gravity of the moment.
Among the first to arrive were Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Abhishek Bachchan. The couple, who have shared a long-standing professional and personal relationship with Manish, appeared visibly moved as they entered the residence to comfort the designer.
Power couple Kiara Advani and Sidharth Malhotra also visited to pay their respects. Manish Malhotra, who famously designed Kiara’s wedding couture, shares a familial bond with the duo. They were joined by Varun Dhawan and his wife Natasha Dalal, who arrived early to support their long-time friend.
Other notable figures spotted at the residence included:
- Karan Johar: A close confidant and frequent collaborator of Manish.
- Karisma Kapoor & Malaika Arora: Representing the core circle of Manish’s industry friends.
- Arjun Kapoor & Zoya Akhtar: Arrived to offer their condolences to the bereaved family.
- Ananya Panday & Shanaya Kapoor: Accompanied by Sanjay Kapoor and Maheep Kapoor.
- Sonali Bendre & Raveena Tandon: Veterans who have worked with Manish since the 1990s.
- Parineeti Chopra & Raghav Chadha: The couple took time out of their schedule to stand by Manish during this crisis.
The family has finalized the arrangements for the final rites. According to an official statement, the cremation of Garima Malhotra is scheduled for March 20, 2026, at 10:00 AM.
The ceremony will take place at the Hindu Crematorium in Santa Cruz West, Mumbai. A large contingent of the film fraternity is expected to attend the funeral to bid a final farewell to the woman who raised one of India’s most iconic creative minds.
Manish Malhotra has often credited his family for his grounded nature despite the glitz and glamour of his profession. While Manish is the face of the brand, his mother remained his emotional anchor. Industry insiders recall how Manish often spoke of her with immense pride and affection in private gatherings.
This loss marks the end of an era for the Malhotra family. However, the overwhelming presence of Bollywood’s elite at his doorstep highlights the respect and love the industry holds for Manish. From the Kapoors to the Bachchans, the collective presence of the industry underscores the fact that in Bollywood, relationships often run deeper than professional collaborations.
As Mumbai prepares for the final rites at Santa Cruz West, the thoughts and prayers of the entire nation are with Manish Malhotra and his family. The loss of a mother is an irreparable void, but the presence of his “extended family” from the world of cinema offers a glimpse of the comfort that surrounds him today.
