Dharmendra's family slams media for false death reports

In a dramatic turn of events that exposed the recklessness of Indian media and the celebrity rumour mill, the family of veteran Bollywood actor Dharmendra Deol was forced to issue multiple clarifications on Tuesday after widespread false reports claimed that the 89-year-old screen legend had died.

Esha Deol, the actor's daughter, took to Instagram to quash the speculation, confirming that her father was alive, hospitalised, and recovering. She then disabled comments on her post to prevent further speculation.

"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," she wrote.

Her mother, veteran actor and politician Hema Malini, also expressed outrage over the irresponsible reporting, calling the circulation of such fake news "unforgivable".

"How can responsible channels spread false news about a person who is responding to treatment and recovering? This is being extremely disrespectful and irresponsible. Please give due respect to the family and its need for privacy," she said on X.

Dharmendra, who was admitted to hospital last week after complaining of breathlessness, had reportedly been placed under observation. Several Indian outlets, however, jumped to conclusions, reporting that the beloved 'Sholay' star had died, with some claiming he had been on ventilator support since Monday.

The situation escalated when high-profile figures, including Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, posted condolence messages on X, mourning the supposed death.

"Deeply saddened by the demise of veteran actor and former MP Shri Dharmendra ji," Singh wrote, describing him as "a versatile actor who brought life to many memorable characters." Adityanath, too, posted a tribute, calling the rumoured passing "an irreparable loss to art and the film world." Both posts were later deleted.

Adding to the confusion, lyricist and screenwriter Javed Akhtar also paid tribute online, calling Dharmendra "a perfect combination of masculinity and gentleness … dignity and humility … charm and power." His message was widely shared before the family's clarifications went public.

Amid the misinformation storm, Dharmendra's elder son, actor Sunny Deol, released a formal statement appealing for restraint and prayers instead of rumours. "Mr Dharmendra is stable and under observation. Further comments and updates will be shared as available. Kindly don't indulge in spreading false rumours regarding his health. Request everyone to pray for his speedy recovery and respect the family's right to privacy," the statement read.

Family members, including Hema Malini, Sunny and Bobby Deol, and grandsons Karan and Rajveer, were seen visiting the hospital on Monday evening. Several Bollywood personalities, among them Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, Govinda, and Ameesha Patel, also checked in on the ailing star.

Dharmendra, one of Hindi cinema's most enduring and charismatic icons, is best known for his roles in classics such as 'Sholay', 'Chupke Chupke', 'Dharam Veer', 'Mera Gaon Mera Desh' and 'Dream Girl'. His last appearance was in the 2024 romantic comedy 'Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya', alongside Shahid Kapoor and Kriti Sanon.

The actor, often hailed as the 'He-Man of Bollywood', has remained active in the public eye for decades and continues to command affection across generations. The family's unified response not only reaffirmed his improving health but also reignited debate over the responsibility of news outlets and public figures in verifying information before publication.

For now, the message from the Deols is unequivocal: Dharmendra is alive, recuperating, and needs privacy - not premature obituaries.