Dharmendra critical after being admitted to Breach Candy Hospital, on ventilator

Veteran Bollywood star Dharmendra, widely celebrated as the “He-Man” of Hindi cinema, has been admitted to Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital and is reportedly on ventilator support. The actor, aged 89, had been in the hospital for several days before his condition worsened, leading to his transfer to the intensive care unit (ICU).

According to sources close to the family, Dharmendra was initially admitted for what was believed to be a routine medical check-up and observation. However, over the past few days, his health reportedly deteriorated, prompting doctors to place him under intensive care. Medical professionals at Breach Candy Hospital are said to be monitoring his condition closely, while a team of specialists has been assigned to oversee his treatment.

While there has been no official statement released by the hospital or the family, media reports have described his condition as “critical.” Some reports suggest that Dharmendra has been placed on ventilator support to assist with breathing, while others indicate that he remains under observation and that his condition is stable. The absence of a unified statement has led to speculation across social media and the entertainment industry, but family members have requested privacy during this challenging time.

Dharmendra’s sons, actors Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, along with his wife, veteran actress and politician Hema Malini, are said to be by his side at the hospital. Other members of the Deol family, including his daughter Esha Deol, have reportedly been in constant touch with doctors. Those close to the family have described the atmosphere as tense yet hopeful, with everyone praying for his recovery.

Fans from across the country have flooded social media platforms with messages of support and prayers, using hashtags such as #GetWellSoonDharmendra and #PrayForDharmendra. Admirers have been sharing old photos, memorable film clips, and heartfelt posts expressing how much the veteran actor means to them. The sheer volume of responses highlights the enormous affection Dharmendra commands even today, across generations of film lovers.

Dharmendra, whose full name is Dharmendra Singh Deol, has been a towering figure in Indian cinema for over six decades. Born on December 8, 1935, in Punjab, he began his film career in the early 1960s and soon rose to prominence as one of the leading actors of Hindi cinema. Known for his striking good looks, muscular physique, and effortless charm, he earned the nickname “He-Man of Bollywood” and became a household name with hits such as Phool Aur Patthar, Sholay, Chupke Chupke, Seeta Aur Geeta, and Yaadon Ki Baaraat.

Over the decades, Dharmendra transitioned smoothly from romantic hero to action star, and later to character roles, proving his versatility as an actor. He shared the screen with some of the biggest names in the industry—Amitabh Bachchan, Hema Malini, Rekha, and Meena Kumari among others—and built a legacy that continues to inspire new generations of actors.

Beyond his on-screen charisma, Dharmendra’s off-screen persona has also been deeply admired. Known for his humility, warmth, and accessibility, he earned the love of his peers and the respect of filmmakers across the industry. Colleagues often describe him as generous, affectionate, and deeply passionate about his craft. His marriage to Hema Malini, one of Bollywood’s most iconic actresses, added another layer of fascination to his personal life, and together they have long been regarded as one of the industry’s most beloved couples.

In recent years, Dharmendra has maintained a relatively low profile, occasionally appearing in films and attending public events. He was last seen in the 2024 film Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya, sharing screen space with younger stars Shahid Kapoor and Kriti Sanon. His performance was widely appreciated, serving as a reminder of his enduring presence and charm even after so many years in the industry.

According to reports, Dharmendra was preparing to begin work on a new project titled Ikkis, directed by acclaimed filmmaker Sriram Raghavan. The film, a war drama based on the life of the late Arun Khetarpal, India’s youngest Param Vir Chakra recipient, was said to hold a special place in his heart. However, with his current health situation, the production schedule may be adjusted as the family prioritizes his recovery.

The news of his deteriorating condition has stirred a wave of concern not just among fans but also within the film fraternity. Fellow actors, directors, and producers have expressed their solidarity with the Deol family, offering prayers and best wishes for Dharmendra’s recovery. Many took to social media to recall fond memories and anecdotes about working with him, emphasizing his kindness, discipline, and infectious enthusiasm on set.

In one such recollection, a filmmaker described how Dharmendra, despite his superstardom, always maintained a sense of humility. He was known to treat crew members with respect and often took time to share meals and jokes with them. These qualities endeared him to people from all walks of life, and they remain a major reason behind his enduring popularity.

The uncertainty surrounding his health has also reignited discussions about the fragility of life and the toll that decades in the entertainment industry can take. Dharmendra’s journey, marked by intense physical roles and relentless work schedules during the golden era of Bollywood, speaks to his remarkable stamina and determination. However, as he approaches his 90th birthday, health complications have understandably become more frequent.

Medical experts point out that in elderly patients, even a mild respiratory issue can escalate quickly, especially if there are pre-existing conditions. While ventilator support does not always signify a terminal situation, it typically indicates that the patient needs assistance to maintain stable breathing until they can recover sufficient strength. Sources close to the hospital have shared that the medical team is taking all necessary precautions and has been updating the family regularly.

For fans, the idea of Dharmendra—long seen as a symbol of strength and resilience—facing such a medical battle feels deeply emotional. Over the years, he has represented not just masculinity and heroism on screen but also sincerity and authenticity off it. His vulnerability today underscores that even icons are human, and that their contributions live on long after the lights dim.

As the news spreads, crowds have begun gathering outside Breach Candy Hospital, holding photos, posters, and flowers as a show of solidarity. Many have expressed that Dharmendra’s films formed a crucial part of their lives, that his roles taught them about courage, love, and laughter. From the action-packed sequences of Sholay to the comic brilliance of Chupke Chupke, his work spans an emotional spectrum that few actors have achieved with such grace.

In recent years, Dharmendra has also become a social media presence, sharing reflections, poems, and simple thoughts from his farmhouse in Lonavala. His posts often reveal a philosophical, emotional side—one that resonates with fans who see him as both a star and a humble human being. He often spoke about gratitude, love, and the importance of staying positive, messages that now serve as a comfort to those praying for his recovery.

While the coming days will be crucial, the love and prayers surrounding Dharmendra are immense. His family, friends, and fans are united in hope, believing that the man who has inspired millions with his vitality will once again overcome this challenge.

As he remains under close observation, the hospital has reportedly ensured that no unnecessary visitors are allowed inside, both to maintain hygiene protocols and to ensure a peaceful environment for recovery. A few close associates have shared that the actor has responded faintly to treatment, though no official word confirms this. In moments like these, families often rely on faith, patience, and the support of loved ones to endure the uncertainty.

For the film industry, this episode serves as a poignant reminder of how deeply the legends of the past remain intertwined with its identity. Dharmendra represents an era that shaped modern Bollywood—a period of raw storytelling, enduring melodies, and larger-than-life heroes. His influence can still be felt in today’s cinema, with several actors openly citing him as a source of inspiration for their performances.

As the day progresses, media houses continue to monitor the situation closely, awaiting an official update from the family or the hospital authorities. Fans across the world remain glued to the news, hoping for a positive turnaround. Meanwhile, messages of strength and healing continue to pour in, creating a wave of emotional unity among people from every corner of the country.

At this moment, as prayers echo across homes and film studios alike, there is a shared sentiment of respect and gratitude for the man who has given Indian cinema some of its most unforgettable moments. Dharmendra’s story has always been one of courage, hard work, and humility—and even in this moment of frailty, he continues to embody that same spirit.

The next few days will determine the course of his recovery, but regardless of the outcome, his legacy stands immortal. Dharmendra is not just an actor; he is a symbol of an era, a bridge between generations, and a living reminder of Bollywood’s golden age. For millions, his films are not merely entertainment—they are memories, emotions, and pieces of life itself.

As the country watches and waits, one collective prayer rises for the beloved star: that he finds strength, healing, and comfort; that his laughter and grace, which once lit up the silver screen, may return once again to brighten the lives of those who love him so deeply.

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