Dharmendra health update: Hema Malini, Sunny Deol and Isha Deol slam media for false reports

In light of the rumours surrounding veteran Bollywood star Dharmendra's demise, his wife Hema Malini and children Sunny Deol and Esha Deol took to social media to clarify that the actor is alive and recovering.

In a statement, Sunny Deol's team said: “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”.

Esha wrote, "The media seems to be in overdrive and spreading false news. My father is stable & recovering. We request everyone to give our family privacy. Thank you for the prayers for papa's speedy recovery. Esha Deol."

Hema Malini added: "What is happening is unforgivable! How can responsible channels spread false news about a person who is responding to treatment and is recovering? This is being extremely disrespectful and  irresponsible. Please give due respect to the family and its need for privacy."

A while ago, various media outlets had reported that Dharmendra was admitted to Mumbai's Breach Candy Hospital due to age-related complications, and his condition critical. The 89-year-old actor has been placed on ventilator support due to breathing difficulties, they added.

Dharmendra has reportedly been in the ICU for the past several days due to respiratory issues and apparently his condition worsened yesterday morning. 

The Sholay actor was visited by his family members, friends and industry colleagues in the hospital. His upcoming release is Sriram Raghavan's Ikkis, starring Agastya Nanda.

Entertainment