In a moment of profound personal loss, actor Mannara Chopra mourned the death of her father, Raman Rai Handa, who passed away at the age of 72 on June 16, 2025. The cremation ceremony, held in Mumbai on Thursday, witnessed emotional scenes as Mannara and her sister, Mitali Handa, tearfully bid farewell. Raman Rai Handa, a senior lawyer with the Delhi High Court, was known for being the cornerstone of the family. He is survived by his wife, Kamini Chopra Handa, and daughters Mannara and Mitali. Condolences poured in from family members, including global star Priyanka Chopra.
An Emotional Farewell in Mumbai
The cremation of Raman Rai Handa took place in Mumbai, where family and close friends gathered to pay their final respects. Dressed in traditional white, Mannara and Mitali were seen grieving beside each other, visibly devastated. Video footage captured the raw emotions of the moment as both sisters broke down in tears, holding on to one another amid a crowd of mourners.
In an emotional gesture of love and strength, Mannara expressed her wish to personally assist in carrying her father’s mortal remains—a role typically reserved for male family members in traditional Hindu rites. The actress was seen walking solemnly alongside other relatives as they entered the cremation ground.
A Personal Loss in the Chopra Family
Raman Rai Handa, a respected legal professional with years of service at the Delhi High Court, was also connected to the renowned Chopra family in Indian cinema. His wife, Kamini Chopra Handa, is the paternal aunt of actors Priyanka Chopra and Parineeti Chopra, making Mannara their cousin.
In an official statement released shortly after his passing, the family described him as "the pillar of strength" whose presence had anchored them. The announcement read:
"With profound grief and sorrow, we inform the sad demise of our loving father who left us for his heavenly abode on 16/06/2025. He was the pillar of strength for our family."
Condolences from Near and Far
Priyanka Chopra, currently based in the United States, expressed her sorrow on social media, posting a heartfelt tribute on Instagram Stories. “You'll always be in our hearts. Rest easy Raman uncle (fufaji). Om Shanti,” she wrote, alongside a folded hands emoji. Her brother, Siddharth Chopra, also paid tribute by sharing the family’s official statement and writing, “Will miss you Raman uncle.”
While neither Priyanka nor Parineeti could be physically present at the ceremony due to international commitments, their digital messages resonated with the grief felt by the family and fans alike.
Legacy of Raman Rai Handa
Raman Rai Handa’s legacy extends beyond his professional accomplishments as a lawyer. Within the Chopra household, he was regarded as a guiding figure—steady, wise, and nurturing. His death marks not just the loss of a father but also the end of an era for the family, especially his daughters, who have often spoken about the support and encouragement they received from him throughout their lives.
Conclusion
Grief often arrives with no warning, but it brings people closer in moments of remembrance. As Mannara Chopra and her family navigate this deeply personal loss, they do so surrounded by love, respect, and heartfelt condolences from across the globe. Raman Rai Handa’s memory will endure not only through his family but also in the values and strength he passed on to them.
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