Bollywood star Varun Dhawan and his wife Natasha Dalal welcomed their daughter, Lara, in 2024. Recently, in an episode of the show Be A Man, Yaar!, Varun discussed a significant health concern regarding his daughter. He shared that Lara was diagnosed with Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH), a condition that hindered her ability to walk and run properly. Fortunately, she underwent a procedure and is currently on the road to recovery.
When Lara was just 1.5 years old, doctors diagnosed her with DDH. Varun explained that this condition occurs when the hip slips out of the hip socket, resulting in one leg being shorter than the other, which leads to an uneven walking pattern. He emphasized how this condition can lead to early arthritis and other complications if not treated.
Varun highlighted that while effective treatments for DDH are abundant in Western countries, such options might not be as accessible in all regions of India. However, he also noted that there are skilled doctors in the country who specialize in treating this condition. He described how Lara did not require surgery; a simpler procedure helped reposition her hip, but she had to spend 2.5 months in a spica cast, a challenging experience for both the child and the family. With the cast now removed, Varun expressed interest in writing a book to raise awareness about DDH.
He urged parents to be vigilant about their children’s movements and to consult pediatricians if they notice anything unusual in their child’s development. Varun stressed the importance of early diagnosis, as it significantly improves the chances of successful treatment for DDH. He also shared that he chose to speak about this experience to help others understand the condition, as many in India may not be familiar with it.
DDH is a condition affecting the formation of a baby’s hip joint, sometimes present at birth and other times developing as the child grows. It can impact one or both hips, which underscores the need for awareness and prompt action if issues arise.
In addition to his recent revelations about Lara’s health, Varun reflected on fatherhood. Since becoming a father, he feels he has become softer and more willing to cater to his daughter’s needs. He and Natasha celebrated their marriage in a private ceremony in 2021, and they welcomed Lara on June 3 at a Mumbai hospital. The couple expressed their joy on social media, with Varun announcing the arrival of their daughter and thanking well-wishers for their support.