Bollywood actor Lara Dutta Bhupathi has revealed that she is currently stranded in Dubai with her daughter and former tennis star husband Mahesh Bhupathi as tensions escalate in the Middle East due to the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict. The actor shared that the situation has been stressful and unsettling, as explosions and fighter jets have been frequently heard in the area.
Lara said she had travelled to Dubai for a brand commitment when the conflict began. Recalling the tense moments, she mentioned hearing loud blasts and seeing missiles being intercepted in the sky while she was at a studio. According to her, fighter jets flying overhead and the sound of explosions have made the past few days nerve-racking.
Despite the tense environment, Lara added that she has not felt unsafe. She lives in a secure neighbourhood in Dubai but admitted that the loud booms often shake the windows and doors of her house, making the situation disturbing.
The actor also praised the UAE government for ensuring the safety of residents during the crisis. She said authorities are doing everything possible to protect people regardless of their nationality and that citizens and expatriates alike are being taken care of.
Lara expressed admiration for the everyday workers in the country, including delivery staff and gardeners, who continue to perform their duties despite the tense atmosphere.
She further said that she and her family are trying to return to Mumbai but are struggling to find available flights at the moment. The actor explained that the children are particularly anxious due to the ongoing developments, which has increased their urgency to travel back to India.
Lara also expressed hope that better judgment and common sense would prevail so that the conflict can end soon, adding that no civilian deserves to live in fear because of war.