(We had earlier reported that Dharmendra had died based on sources. The family has since clarified that he is stable and responding to treatment).
Veteran actor Dharmendra is responding to treatment and recovering, wife Hema Malini and daughter Esha Deol said in separate social media posts on Tuesday, rejecting reports of his death. The Bollywood legend, 89, was admitted to Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital last week after complaining of respiratory issues.
“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 and irresponsible. Please give due respect to the family and its need for privacy (sic),” Hema Malini posted on X.
Dharmendra’s elder daughter, Esha Deol, also posted on Instagram, saying that her father was stable and recovering.
“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 (sic),” Esha’s post read.
Famously called the He-Man of Bollywood, Dharmendra’s next on-screen appearance will be in ‘Ikkis‘, set to release on December 25.
Considered one of the greatest actors in Indian cinema, Dharmendra began his career with the 1960 film ‘Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere‘. He was awarded the Padma Bhushan, India’s third-highest civilian honour in 2012. In his career spanning six decades, Dharmendra has starred in award-winning films like ‘Yaadon Ki Baarat‘, ‘Mera Gaon Mera Desh‘, ‘Naukar Biwi Ka‘, ‘Phool Aur Patthar‘, ‘Betaab‘, and ‘Ghayal‘ among others.
Born as Dharmendra Kewal Krishan Deol in a village in Ludhiana, Punjab, he married Prakash Kaur in 1954 at the age of 19, before entering the film industry. Later, he fell in love with actor Hema Malini, whom he went on to marry.
Even at 89, Dharmendra remains active on social media, often sharing videos that promote healthy living and an organic lifestyle. Many of his Instagram posts have featured him driving a tractor, tending to his farm, and offering simple life lessons and farming tips to his fans.
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