Sunil Malhotra was the father of Bollywood actor Sidharth Malhotra and a respected former Merchant Navy captain known for his disciplined and private lifestyle. Though he stayed away from the limelight, his values of integrity, humility, and resilience played a major role in shaping his family. His recent passing in February 2026 brought public attention to his life, legacy, and quiet influence behind one of Bollywood’s leading stars.
Table of Contents
Who Was Sunil Malhotra? All You Need to Know About Sidharth Malhotra’s Father
Sunil Malhotra was the father of Bollywood actor Sidharth Malhotra and a retired Merchant Navy captain. He lived a disciplined life away from the public spotlight but played an important role in shaping his son’s values.
His passing on February 14, 2026, in Delhi after a prolonged illness brought attention to his life and achievements. Family members and fans remembered him as a man of integrity, humility, and strength.
Latest News and Passing
Sunil Malhotra passed away peacefully in Delhi after battling health complications for some time. His last rites were performed the same day in the presence of close family members.
Sidharth Malhotra and his wife, Kiara Advani, rushed from Mumbai to be with the family. Emotional tributes poured in on social media as people remembered his quiet influence.
Basic Personal Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Sunil Malhotra |
| Profession | Merchant Navy Captain (Retired) |
| Date of Death | February 14, 2026 |
| Place | Delhi, India |
| Religion | Hindu |
| Community | Punjabi Khatri |
These details reflect a life focused more on family and duty than public fame. He preferred privacy despite having a famous son.
Early Life and Education
Sunil Malhotra was born into a Punjabi Khatri family in New Delhi. Though many details about his parents remain private, he grew up in a disciplined middle-class household.
He studied at Defence Services Public School in Dhaula Kuan. Later, he graduated from Christ Church College in Kanpur before starting his maritime career.
Career in the Merchant Navy
Sunil Malhotra served as a captain in the Merchant Navy, a profession requiring leadership and strong decision-making skills. His work involved commanding ships and managing crews in challenging sea conditions.
This career demanded discipline, patience, and resilience. These qualities deeply influenced his family life and parenting style.
Influence on Sidharth Malhotra
Sunil Malhotra was often described by Sidharth as his “first hero.” The actor frequently credited his father for teaching him humility and professionalism.
His disciplined Navy background helped Sidharth stay grounded even after entering Bollywood. This influence became especially important during difficult career phases.
Emotional Tribute by Sidharth Malhotra
After his father’s passing, Sidharth shared an emotional tribute describing him as a man of honesty, culture, and strength. He highlighted how his father maintained positivity even during illness.
He also mentioned that his father’s integrity would remain his lifelong inheritance. The tribute resonated deeply with fans and celebrities alike.
Tribute from Kiara Advani
Kiara Advani also shared a heartfelt message remembering her father-in-law. She spoke about his kindness, generosity, and unconditional love for the family.
She described him as a gentle and wise person whose presence brought stability. Her tribute reflected the close bond within the family.
Family Background
| Family Member | Relation | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Rimma Malhotra | Wife | Homemaker |
| Sidharth Malhotra | Elder Son | Bollywood Actor |
| Harshad Malhotra | Younger Son | Private Professional |
| Kiara Advani | Daughter-in-law | Actress |
The Malhotra family has always maintained a low public profile. Their focus has been on strong personal relationships rather than media attention.
Wife Rimma Malhotra
Sunil Malhotra was married to Rimma Malhotra, a homemaker who supported the family throughout his maritime career. She played a major role in managing the household during his long absences at sea.
During his illness, she was his primary caregiver. Their partnership reflected mutual respect and family dedication.
Cultural and Religious Background
Sunil Malhotra came from a Hindu Punjabi background. His wife Rimma belongs to a Sikh family, which brought diverse cultural traditions into their home.
Their children grew up celebrating multiple traditions. This environment encouraged respect for different cultures and values.
Family Tree Overview
| Relationship | Name |
|---|---|
| Wife | Rimma Malhotra |
| Son | Sidharth Malhotra |
| Son | Harshad Malhotra |
| Daughter-in-law | Kiara Advani |
| Brother | Anil Malhotra |
This simple family structure reflects a close-knit household. They are known for staying united during personal challenges.
Health Struggles and Final Years
In recent years, Sunil Malhotra faced health challenges, including a stroke that affected his mobility. Despite this, he remained mentally strong and positive.
Family members admired his courage and calm attitude during illness. His resilience became an inspiration to those around him.
Legacy and Values
Sunil Malhotra’s legacy lies not in fame but in values like discipline, honesty, and humility. These qualities significantly shaped his son’s personality and career approach.
His influence continues to guide the family even after his passing. Many consider his life a quiet example of strength and dignity.
Impact on Sidharth’s Career
Sidharth Malhotra often acknowledged that his father’s support helped him navigate Bollywood pressures. Sunil Malhotra encouraged balance between professional ambition and personal values.
This grounding influence helped Sidharth maintain a stable public image. It also contributed to his consistent growth in the film industry.
Public Response After His Passing
Following his death, fans and celebrities expressed condolences online. Many appreciated the positive values he instilled in his son.
Industry colleagues also respected his low-profile lifestyle. His passing was seen as a personal loss for the Malhotra family.
Also Read: Salim Khan Biography: Age, Career, Wives, Kids, Family Tree and Personal Life Details
Lasting Legacy
Sunil Malhotra lived a life rooted in discipline, humility, and strong personal values. As a Merchant Navy captain and devoted family man, he quietly shaped the lives of those around him.
His influence continues through his family, especially in the values he passed on to his children. He will be remembered as a respected figure whose integrity and strength left a meaningful and lasting impact.