Mumbai: Veteran Bollywood actor Dharmendra has been hospitalised in critical condition at Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital, where he remains on ventilator support under a team of doctors. Family members have urged the public to avoid believing false reports of his death circulating online.

According to hospital sources cited by IANS, Dharmendra was admitted after he complained of breathlessness. The 90-year-old actor, often called the “He-Man of Bollywood”, is under continuous medical observation. Reports confirm that he is receiving treatment from a specialised medical team and remains on ventilator support.

Family requests privacy, confirms he is stable

Dharmendra’s family has urged media and fans not to spread misinformation about his condition. In a statement, they clarified that he is “under observation and stable”, and requested fans to pray for his recovery. Sunny Deol’s team stated, “Sir is recovering and responding to treatment. Let’s all pray for his good health and long life.”

Stars visit hospital to check on Dharmendra

A number of celebrities, including Salman Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, Govinda, and Ameesha Patel, were seen visiting the actor on Monday night. On Tuesday evening, Aamir Khan arrived at the hospital accompanied by his partner Gauri Spratt.

Esha Deol and Hema Malini spotted leaving hospital amid media rush

Dharmendra’s daughter Esha Deol and wife Hema Malini were seen leaving the hospital visibly emotional. Esha was also seen pleading with paparazzi to move aside as photographers blocked their car outside the hospital, saying, “What is this?”

Industry colleagues and friends express concern

Actor Prem Chopra, who is currently hospitalised himself, expressed concern for his old friend, saying through his family that he was “worried about Dharmendra ji’s health.” Actress Bina Kak shared an old memory from 1986, calling Dharmendra a “fighter” and wishing him strength. Actress Divya Dutta also reflected on their shared hometown and called the veteran “precious to every movie lover.”

False death reports spark outrage online

As unverified reports of Dharmendra’s death circulated on social media, several celebrities, including actress Bhagyashree, mistakenly posted condolence messages. She later issued an apology, calling the misinformation “horrible” and wishing the actor a speedy recovery.

A legacy of strength and cinema

Dharmendra, known for classics like Sholay, Chupke Chupke, and Phool Aur Patthar, has worked in over 300 films. He was last seen in Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani and Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Ulja Jiya. His next film, Ikkis, directed by Sriram Raghavan and co-starring Agastya Nanda, is slated for release in 2026.