Mumbai, Nov 11 — Veteran Bollywood actor Dharmendra, aged 89, is “stable and recovering”, his family confirmed on Tuesday, dismissing widespread fake news reports about his death that circulated on social media and some media outlets earlier in the day.
The iconic actor, currently under observation at Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital, has been receiving treatment for several days. His daughter Esha Deol took to Instagram to slam the false reports, urging people and media organisations to act responsibly.
“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 wrote.
Dharmendra’s wife and veteran actor-politician Hema Malini also condemned what she called “irresponsible journalism” over the spread of misinformation regarding her husband’s health.
“What is happening is unforgivable! How can responsible channels spread false news about a person who is responding to treatment and recovering? This is extremely disrespectful and irresponsible. Please give due respect to the family and its need for privacy,” she posted on X (formerly Twitter).
A representative for Sunny Deol confirmed the actor’s improving condition, saying, “Sir is recovering and responding to treatment. Let’s all pray for his good health and long life.”
The false news triggered a wave of confusion earlier in the day, with even prominent personalities — including Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, and lyricist Javed Akhtar — sharing condolence messages on X before deleting them once the clarification came from the family.
Family sources said the entire Deol family, including Hema Malini, Sunny Deol, and Bobby Deol, has been by Dharmendra’s side. Several Bollywood stars, including Salman Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, Govinda, and Ameesha Patel, were spotted visiting the hospital.
Malini had earlier urged fans to stay calm and pray for the veteran’s recovery.
“I thank everyone for their concern about Dharam ji. He is being continuously monitored, and we are all with him. Please pray for his welfare and speedy recovery,” she wrote.
Dharmendra, known for his roles in classics like Sholay, Satyakam, and Phool Aur Patthar, remains one of India’s most beloved actors.
