Entertainment

IIE DIGITAL DESK : Priyanka Chopra, the globally renowned actor, recently expressed her profound sorrow over the passing of her uncle, Advocate Raman Rai Handa, father of Bollywood actress Mannara Chopra. Taking to Instagram on June 17, 2025, Priyanka posted a heartfelt message in her Instagram Stories, writing: “You’ll always be in our hearts. Rest easy Raman Uncle (Fufaji). Om Shanti.” This tribute came in response to Mannara’s public announcement of her father’s death on June 16.

Raman Rai Handa, aged 71 or 72 (sources vary slightly), was a respected legal practitioner who appeared at the Delhi High Court. His demise, reportedly due to age-related health issues, marks a significant loss for the Chopra and Handa families.

Mannara Chopra shared an official statement mourning her father's passing: “With profound grief and sorrow we inform the sad demise of our loving father… He was the pillar of strength for our family.” She also announced that his last rites will be held on June 18 at 1 PM, at the Crematorium Ground in Amboli, Andheri West, Mumbai. Mannara and her sister, Mitali, were spotted at the Mumbai airport on June 16, their grief visible as they traveled together, supported by loved ones .

Priyanka Chopra’s emotional Instagram story reinforced the closeness shared by the Chopra-Handa families. She addressed her uncle affectionately as “Fufaji” (paternal uncle), underlining the warmth of their relationships .mannara’s cousin and fellow actress Meera Chopra also reacted to the tragedy. Meera, who was at an event when the news broke, later told media outlets, “He was fine, so I don’t know what exactly happened… Losing a parent—nothing can be worse than that.” Her words highlighted the shock reverberating through the family .

Raman Rai Handa served not only as a prominent advocate but also as a mentor and pillar of his family. Married to Kamini Chopra Handa, he is survived by his daughters—Mannara and Mitali—and the broader Chopra-Handa community, including cousins Priyanka, Parineeti, and Meera Chopra.

The Chopra family, known for their solidarity, has come together in grief. The last rites scheduled for June 18 are expected to be attended by family members and close friends who will gather to pay their final respects. this heartfelt moment—where Priyanka Chopra publicly mourned the loss of her father’s brother—underscores the close bonds within one of Bollywood’s most prominent families. As they navigate this difficult time, the support and unity they demonstrate speak volumes about their shared love and respect for each other.