Varun Dhawan shares daughter Lara's diagnosis, says it affected her ability to walk

Bollywood actor Varun Dhawan has shared that his daughter Lara was diagnosed with Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH), a condition that affected her ability to walk properly. Speaking on the podcast Be A Man, Yaar!, the actor shared details of the diagnosis, saying the condition caused an imbalance in her legs, making walking and running difficult.

Dhawan added that Lara underwent a medical procedure and had to remain in a spica cast for nearly two-and-a-half months. He described the phase as challenging, particularly as she had to be under anaesthesia before waking up in the cast. The actor confirmed that the cast has now been removed and she is currently recovering.

Developmental Dysplasia of the Hip (DDH) is a condition where a child’s hip joint does not form properly, causing the hip to slip out of its socket. It can lead to uneven leg length and difficulty in movement if not addressed early.

Dhawan noted that while treatment is often available at birth in some countries, awareness and early diagnosis remain crucial. He emphasised that the condition



is treatable, especially when detected during early development.

The actor shared that Lara did not require surgery, as doctors were able to correct the issue through a procedure – she had to stay in a spica cast for weeks, which he described as a demanding period for the family.

He also mentioned that the experience had been significant enough for him to consider documenting it in detail, possibly through a book, to help others understand the condition better.

Dhawan said he chose to speak about Lara’s diagnosis to raise awareness among parents. He urged them to closely observe their children’s movement and consult a paediatrician if they notice anything unusual.

He also clarified that he does not want sympathy, but hopes that sharing his experience will encourage early intervention and better understanding of DDH in India.

Dhawan and Natasha Dalal welcomed Lara in 2024. The actor has previously spoken about how fatherhood has changed him, describing himself as more emotionally aware since becoming a parent.