Mumbai: Veteran actor and politician Hema Malini has strongly refuted unverified reports about her husband, Bollywood icon Dharmendra, following widespread rumours claiming his demise.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday morning, the 77-year-old actor expressed anger over what she described as “irresponsible and insensitive” coverage by certain media outlets. “How can anyone circulate such baseless news about a man who is responding well to treatment? This is deeply disrespectful to both the individual and the family. I urge everyone to allow us some privacy,” she wrote.
Hema Malini’s clarification came shortly after her daughter, Esha Deol, addressed similar speculation through an Instagram post. Esha assured fans that her father, 89, was “stable and recovering,” while also requesting restraint from the media and the public. “Please don’t spread misinformation. We appreciate everyone’s prayers for papa’s recovery,” she said, disabling comments on the post to prevent further speculation.
Earlier on Monday night, Hema Malini had already shared a brief update on Instagram, thanking well-wishers for their concern. She confirmed that Dharmendra was admitted to a Mumbai hospital for observation and was under continuous medical supervision.
Dharmendra’s elder son, actor and BJP MP Sunny Deol, also released a statement urging people to avoid rumours. “My father is stable and under observation. Further details will be shared as necessary. Please respect our family’s privacy and continue your prayers for his speedy recovery,” the note read.
According to reports, the veteran star was admitted to Breach Candy Hospital after experiencing difficulty in breathing on November 10 and has been on ventilator support since. Several prominent figures from the film industry—including Salman Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, and Govinda—were seen visiting the hospital to check on the ailing actor.
As fans across the country continue to pray for Dharmendra’s health, his family has reiterated a single request: trust only verified updates and refrain from amplifying false or sensational claims.
