Actor Lara Dutta has opened up about the frightening experience she and her daughter Saira Bhupathi faced while being in Dubai during the escalating conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. The actor revealed that the situation was so tense that she feared her emotional video posted online might be the last message she sent out.
Bomb Interceptions and Constant Alerts
Lara said the conflict turned the entire United Arab Emirates region into a tense environment. While the UAE government maintained strong security measures, residents could still hear loud explosions from intercepted missiles and drones.
According to Lara, emergency alerts were going off on their phones every few hours, warning people to remain indoors as missiles were intercepted overhead.
Living Close to Bombing Zones
The actor shared that her residence was only about 10 km away from Jebel Ali Port, which was reportedly being targeted during the conflict. Each interception or drone impact created loud reverberations that could be felt inside their home.
Despite the fear, Lara emphasized that authorities were doing everything possible to keep people safe.
A Risky Escape Plan
Eventually, Lara decided to leave the city with her daughter. They chose a flight departing from Fujairah, which required a two-hour road journey during a time when attacks had also been reported near the Fujairah Port and nearby oil facilities.
At the airport, several flights were cancelled, and explosions could still be heard. Lara recalled that as their aircraft finally took off, she could see a massive orange fireball in the distance.
She later joked with her co-star Akshay Kumar that the experience felt like living through a real-life version of the film Airlift.
Daughter’s Emotional Response
Lara revealed that the experience deeply affected her 14-year-old daughter. Saira created a small shelter for herself under the staircase at home, keeping essentials like a sleeping bag and pillows there.
Every time the warning alerts sounded, mother and daughter would move to that spot until authorities confirmed it was safe again.
The actor admitted that the experience will likely leave some psychological impact on her daughter.
“The Futility of War”
Reflecting on the ordeal, Lara said the emotional moment she shared online was not just about fear but about the realization of how meaningless wars can be.
She explained that while people in countries like India may feel distant from such conflicts, global wars eventually affect everyone—economically, emotionally, and socially.
Message for Indians in the Middle East
Lara urged people still in the Middle East to follow government safety instructions and stay calm. She also revealed that she helped friends and staff evacuate with her, saying that in times of crisis, it is important to support each other.