Lara Dutta is currently stranded in Dubai amid escalating tensions in the Middle East and is hoping to return to Mumbai soon.
The actor, who is in Dubai with her daughter and husband Mahesh Bhupathi, said she has been feeling “nervous” and “stressed” due to the ongoing conflict in the region.
Dutta explained that she had travelled to Dubai for a brand-related commitment. She said the city has almost felt like a second home for her over the past three years. However, the situation changed after tensions between Israel and Iran escalated.
Recalling a recent experience, the actor said she heard loud explosions and saw missiles being intercepted while she was inside a studio.
“I can’t lie, these have been stressful days. We are nervous and it’s been scary. There are lots of fighter jets flying overhead and loud booms. Even though we live in a villa in a safe neighbourhood, the windows shake and the doors rattle. It’s unnerving,” she said in a video message.
Despite the tense situation, Dutta said she has not felt unsafe so far.
Tensions in the Middle East intensified after the United States and Israel reportedly launched coordinated strikes against Iran on February 28. Tehran responded by launching drones and missiles targeting Israel, US military bases across the Gulf region and areas near Dubai, a major global business hub.
The actor praised the United Arab Emirates government for managing the situation effectively and ensuring residents’ safety.
“We are being looked after and protected, regardless of nationality. Living in this city, you feel like you count and you matter. The UAE government is doing everything possible to keep people safe,” she said.
Dutta also expressed admiration for essential workers, including delivery riders and other service staff, calling them everyday heroes who continue to keep the country running despite the tense circumstances.
She said her family has been trying to find flights back to India, but tickets are currently unavailable.
“We are trying to get back to Mumbai, mainly because the children are quite nervous, and so are we as adults. We are trying to leave as soon as possible,” she said emotionally.
Reflecting on past conflicts, Dutta said she remembered being in India during tensions between India and Pakistan and witnessing how the country protected its citizens.
“No civilian deserves to live in fear or get caught in a war that destabilises an entire region,” she added, expressing hope that “common sense and better judgment will prevail.”
