Dharmendra, the legendary Bollywood star known as the “He-Man” of Indian cinema, Dharmendra, 89, was admitted to Breach Candy Hospital after complaining of breathlessness. Media outlets initially reported that the actor was placed in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and required ventilator support, triggering shock and alarm on social media and across the entertainment industry. Sources suggested he was under the care of senior cardiologist Dr Dev Pahlajani, with his vital signs reportedly stable, though his condition was being closely monitored.
Conflicting Reports on Ventilator Support
Within hours of the news breaking, rumours about Dharmendra’s health rapidly intensified, fueled by updates on television, social media posts, and WhatsApp forwards. Several high-profile news platforms maintained that Dharmendra was critically ill and on ventilator support, while family sources countered this narrative. According to multiple statements from family representatives and close associates, including Sunny Deol’s team, the news about the ventilator was unfounded, and the actor remained stable but serious, simply under observation for precautionary reasons.
Family’s Statements and Public Reassurance
Hema Malini, Dharmendra’s wife and a renowned actress, gave an emotional update, stating the family was together by his side, offering prayers and hoping for his recovery. She urged fans not to panic: “We are hoping for his speedy recovery.” Both Sunny and Bobby Deol, the couple’s sons, made regular visits to the hospital, their presence offering comfort to fans who gathered outside the facility.
Contrary to early alarming headlines, family sources persistently stated, “There is nothing to worry about,” further confirming that the ICU protocol was a precaution. Sunny Deol’s team added, “Dharmendra has been hospitalised for a week, but he is not on a ventilator,” urging everyone not to be swayed by misinformation circulating online.
Condition: Serious but Stable
Doctors familiar with the case described Dharmendra’s condition as “serious but stable.” Medical professionals at Breach Candy Hospital clarified that his heart rate, blood pressure, and other vital signs were closely monitored but largely within normal ranges throughout his stay. While breathing difficulties had prompted the admission, there was no official confirmation of life-threatening deterioration at the time. The hospital staff highlighted the prevalence of cautionary hospitalisation for senior citizens, especially given his age and past medical history.
Recent Health Setbacks
Dharmendra’s health had been a topic of concern before. Earlier in 2025, he underwent an eye graft surgery but made a swift recovery, soon resuming his interactions with fans through social media. Such hospital visits for routine checks were reportedly common in recent years, reflecting a combination of routine ageing and specific minor health issues, rather than any drastic or irreversible new decline.
Bollywood and Nation Express Concern
Members of the film fraternity and fans alike sent an outpouring of wishes and prayers for Dharmendra’s recovery. Social media timelines flooded with memories of his iconic films and messages of hope. Leading colleagues, junior actors, and Bollywood stalwarts expressed solidarity, reflecting the actor’s towering influence over Indian cinema for more than six decades.
Legacy of a Screen Legend
Dharmendra, set to turn 90 this December, carved out an unparalleled career in Indian cinema. He debuted in 1960 and quickly rose to fame with unforgettable performances in classics such as “Anupama,” “Bandini,” and his career-defining turn as Veeru in “Sholay.” His unmatched charm, rugged style, and versatility set benchmarks for the Hindi film hero, earning him the affectionate moniker “He-Man.” For many, his legacy is not just one of box office success but also of embodied grace, humility, and strength.
- Over 300 films to his credit
- Honoured with the Padma Bhushan for his contribution to Indian cinema
- Admired for iconic partnerships onscreen, especially with Hema Malini
Media Responsibility and Fake News
The Dharmendra hospitalisation episode also highlights the importance of responsible reporting in times of heightened public emotion. Conflicting reports that spread rapidly led to unnecessary panic among fans, underscoring the need for vigilance from both mainstream media and social media users in verifying news before sharing. Clarifications by family and medical authorities eventually helped restore calm, but the episode serves as a reminder of the impact of sensational headlines.
Final Updates and Wishes for Recovery
As of the latest updates, Dharmendra remains under observation at the hospital, and his condition, although serious, is considered stable. The family continues to request prayers and privacy as doctors monitor him. Fans, both in India and globally, remain on edge, compelled by his extraordinary journey and hoping that Bollywood’s beloved “He-Man” will soon return home.
The incident has brought a renewed appreciation of Dharmendra’s impact, an actor whose cinematic and personal legacy transcends generations. For now, his loved ones and admirers await more positive news, unified in hope for his swift recovery.