Veteran actor Dharmendra, one of Indian cinema’s most loved and enduring stars, has been hospitalised and is currently under medical supervision at Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai. The 89-year-old actor was admitted after reportedly experiencing breathlessness, sources said. He is believed to have been placed on ventilator support as a precautionary measure.
Actor stable, family dismisses death rumours
Soon after news of his hospitalisation surfaced, social media was flooded with unverified rumours and false reports claiming the actor had passed away. However, Dharmendra’s family has dismissed the death hoax, confirming that the actor is alive, stable, and responding well to treatment.
Fans and fellow film personalities have been posting messages of support and prayers for his speedy recovery. The hospital and family have requested privacy and urged the public to rely only on official updates regarding his health.
A beloved figure in Indian cinema
Dharmendra, affectionately known as the ‘He-Man of Bollywood’, has enjoyed a film career spanning more than six decades. Known for his charm, versatility, and larger-than-life screen presence, he has starred in several iconic films such as Sholay, Chupke Chupke, Phool Aur Patthar, Yaadon Ki Baaraat, and Satyakam.
Over the years, he has received numerous accolades for his contributions to cinema and continues to hold a special place in the hearts of audiences across generations.
His bond with Hema Malini
Beyond his acting career, Dharmendra’s relationship with Hema Malini, Bollywood’s ‘Dream Girl’, remains one of the most talked-about love stories in the industry. The couple married in 1980, at a time when Dharmendra was already married to Prakash Kaur and had four children — Sunny Deol, Bobby Deol, Vijeta, and Ajeita.
Despite societal scrutiny, Hema Malini chose to maintain her dignity and grace, living separately while respecting Dharmendra’s first family. In her biography Hema Malini: Beyond The Dream Girl, she wrote,
“I didn’t want to disturb anyone. I am happy with whatever Dharamji did for me and my daughters.”
The actress explained that her choice came from understanding and respect for everyone involved, including Dharmendra’s first wife and children.
“All I wanted was happiness,” says Hema Malini
Hema Malini also opened up about being labelled “the other woman” and how she handled public judgment.
“Fingers were pointed, accusations were flung at us. I knew people discussed me behind my back. I just knew that he made me happy. And all I wanted was happiness,” she said in an earlier interview.
In another conversation with Lehren Retro, Hema acknowledged the realities of her marriage:
“Nobody wants to live like this. But automatically, what happens, you have to accept. I am not sulking about it. I am happy with myself. I have my two children, and I have brought them up well.”
The couple has two daughters, Esha Deol and Ahana Deol, both of whom are reportedly by Dharmendra’s side at the hospital.
Fans pray for speedy recovery
As the actor continues to recover, social media platforms have been filled with messages of love and support. Dharmendra’s admirers, colleagues, and film industry peers have expressed hope that the veteran actor will soon return home healthy.