Zoya Akhtar pens a heartfelt note for Menka Irani; says, ‘You shaped my life’

In the early hours of July 26, Bollywood was met with the heartbreaking news of the passing of Farah Khan's mother Menka Irani. The 79-year-old left a profound legacy and a significant impact on her family and the industry. Since the news broke, numerous celebrities have visited Farah Khan’s residence to offer their condolences and pay their respects to the departed soul.

Among the many who extended their sympathies was filmmaker Zoya Akhtar. She took to social media to share a heartfelt tribute, reflecting on the ways Menka Irani had influenced her life. Zoya penned a poignant note alongside a monochrome image of Menka, writing, “Menka Aunty. You shaped my life in ways I will be eternally grateful for. You made me read, you made me laugh, you made me listen to country music and you made me feel like the most special girl in the world. You will always be adored and never be forgotten. Rest in peace. Rest in Power.”

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The news of Menka Irani’s passing prompted an outpouring of grief and support from the Bollywood fraternity. Celebrities such as Shah Rukh Khan, Gauri Khan along with Suhana, Kajol, Rani Mukerji, Shah Rukh Khan, Shilpa Shetty, Fardeen Khan, Sanjay Kapoor, and producer Bhushan Kumar were seen arriving at Farah Khan’s Mumbai home to offer their condolences.

Just a couple of weeks prior to her passing, Farah Khan had celebrated her mother’s 79th birthday. On July 12, the Om Shanti Om director shared a touching Instagram post, featuring a sweet image of herself with Menka.

Farah praised her mother’s resilience and humor, even in the face of multiple surgeries. She wrote, “We all take our mothers for granted..especially me! This last month has been a revelation on how much I love my mom Menka. She’s been the strongest, bravest person I've ever seen, sense of humor intact even after multiple surgeries. Happy birthday mom! Today’s a good day to come back home can’t wait for you to get strong enough to start fighting with me again. I love you.”

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Menka Irani’s influence extended beyond her immediate family. She was the elder sister of Daisy Irani, mother of filmmakers Zoya and Farhan Akhtar.