Veteran Bollywood actor Dharmendra is alive and recovering, his daughter Esha Deol confirmed on Monday, dismissing widespread rumours about his death that circulated across social media and several online outlets earlier in the day.
In a brief statement shared with Indian media, Esha clarified that her 89-year-old father is “stable and responding well to treatment” at Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai, where he was admitted earlier this week due to age-related health concerns.
“Papa is doing well and responding positively to treatment. Please don’t believe any false news,”
she said, urging fans and the media to refrain from spreading misinformation.
Hema Malini slams ‘irresponsible’ reporting
Dharmendra’s wife and veteran actress Hema Malini also expressed anger over the false reports, calling them “deeply disrespectful and irresponsible.”
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), she wrote:
“What is happening is unforgivable! How can responsible channels spread false news about a person who is responding to treatment and is recovering? This is being extremely disrespectful. Please give due respect to the family and its need for privacy.”
The couple’s family, including their sons Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, has been frequently visiting the hospital to check on Dharmendra’s condition.
Earlier in the day, several unverified social media posts and online reports falsely claimed that the actor had passed away, sparking confusion and grief among fans and fellow celebrities. Within hours, both Esha and Hema issued clarifications, confirming that the beloved star is very much alive and under medical supervision.
A legend whose legacy lives on
Widely regarded as one of Indian cinema’s greatest icons, Dharmendra — affectionately known as the He-Man of Bollywood — has appeared in more than 300 films over a career spanning six decades.
He is best remembered for his unforgettable performances in classics such as Sholay (1975), Phool Aur Patthar (1966), Chupke Chupke (1975), Seeta Aur Geeta (1972), and Yaadon Ki Baaraat (1973).
Born Dharmendra Singh Deol on December 8, 1935, in Punjab’s Ludhiana district, he rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most admired and versatile actors in Indian film history. His rugged charm, comic timing, and emotional depth have inspired generations of performers.
Dharmendra’s on-screen pairing with Hema Malini became iconic, and their off-screen romance culminated in marriage in 1980. Together, they remain one of Bollywood’s most celebrated couples.
The veteran star also briefly entered politics, serving as a Member of Parliament from Bikaner, Rajasthan, between 2004 and 2009 as part of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
As fans across the globe breathe a sigh of relief following the family’s statements, heartfelt messages and prayers for Dharmendra’s speedy recovery continue to pour in from colleagues, admirers, and cinema lovers.
