Dharmendra Stable, Recovering: Esha Deol Sets Record Straight on False Reports

Veteran Bollywood actor Dharmendra, celebrated as the "He-Man" of Hindi cinema, has been admitted to Breach Candy Hospital here since early November 2025, initially for routine check-ups following complaints of breathlessness. The 89-year-old icon, whose full name is Dharam Singh Deol, experienced a deterioration in his condition on November 10, leading to reports of him being placed on ventilator support in the ICU under the care of senior cardiologist Dr. Dev Pahlajani. Despite these concerns, family members have emphasized that he remains under close observation, with no official confirmation of critical status beyond initial assessments. This hospitalization comes months after Dharmendra underwent an eye graft surgery in April 2025, highlighting ongoing health management for the nonagenarian amid his enduring passion for the industry.

Amid swirling rumors on social media and news outlets falsely claiming Dharmendra's death, his daughter Esha Deol swiftly issued a firm rebuttal on Instagram on November 11, stating, "The media seems to be in overdrive and spreading false news. My father is stable and recovering. We request everyone to give our family privacy. Thank you for the prayers for Papa's speedy recovery." Esha disabled comments on the post to curb further speculation, reflecting the family's frustration with unverified reports that exacerbated public anxiety. Sunny Deol's team echoed this, describing the actor as "stable and under observation" while urging restraint from disseminating exaggerated claims. Hema Malini, Dharmendra's wife and BJP MP, shared a poignant update on her feed: "I thank everyone for their concern about Dharam ji, who is in hospital for observation. He is being continuously monitored, and we are all with him. I request you all to pray for his welfare and speedy recovery," underscoring the emotional toll on the close-knit Deol family.

The outpouring of support from Bollywood's elite has been overwhelming, with several stars making personal visits to Breach Candy Hospital on the evening of November 10. Shah Rukh Khan arrived with his son Aryan Khan, evoking memories of their on-screen camaraderie in "Om Shanti Om," where Dharmendra's cameo dance sequence became legendary. Salman Khan, a frequent collaborator in films like "Pyaar Kiya To Darna Kya," was among the first to arrive, followed by Govinda and Ameesha Patel, the latter visibly emotional upon departure after starring alongside Dharmendra's son Sunny in "Gadar." Family members, including Hema Malini, sons Sunny and Bobby Deol, grandsons Karan and Rajveer Deol, and daughter-in-law Tanya Deol, maintained a vigil, with one of Dharmendra's U.S.-based daughters reportedly en route. These gestures not only highlight Dharmendra's revered status but also the industry's solidarity during vulnerable moments for its pioneers.

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Dharmendra's illustrious six-decade career, spanning over 300 films, has cemented him as one of Indian cinema's most beloved action heroes and romantic leads. Born on December 8, 1935, in Nasrali, Punjab, he rose from modest beginnings as a schoolteacher's son to stardom after winning a Filmfare New Talent Award for "Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere" in 1960. Blockbusters like "Sholay" (1975), where his Veeru alongside Amitabh Bachchan's Jai redefined buddy dynamics; "Dharam Veer" (1977); "Chupke Chupke" (1975), showcasing his comedic flair; and "Mera Gaon Mera Desh" (1971) earned him the moniker "Garam Dharam." His recent ventures, including a cameo in "Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya" (2024) with Shahid Kapoor and Kriti Sanon and the upcoming "Ikkis" opposite Agastya Nanda—slated for December 25, 2025—demonstrate his unyielding zest, even as he approaches his 90th birthday next month.

This health episode serves as a sobering reminder of the physical demands on ageing legends who continue to inspire across generations, prompting renewed calls from industry bodies like the Cine and TV Artistes' Association (CINTAA) for comprehensive medical support and insurance for seniors. Fans worldwide have flooded social media with tributes under hashtags like #GetWellSoonDharmendra, sharing clips from his golden era and prayers for his swift return. As the Deol family navigates this period of uncertainty, the focus remains on privacy and recovery, with optimism that the resilient patriarch—known for portraying indomitable characters—will emerge stronger, ready to grace screens once more in what promises to be a heartfelt milestone year.

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