'Disrespectful and irresponsible!': Hema Malini slams fake news about Dharmendra’s death

Hema Malini wrote on X, "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."

After several reports claimed Dharmendra passed away, his daughter Esha Deol confirmed that her father was stable and recovering.

"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 posted on Instagram.

The actor, one of Hindi cinema’s most enduring stars, is reportedly under close supervision by a team of specialists.

Family members, including sons Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, were seen visiting the hospital on Monday evening. Hema Malini was also spotted earlier in the day, arriving at Breach Candy to be by her husband’s side.

Amid growing concern from fans, Dharmendra’s team issued an official statement reassuring the public about his health.

“Mr Dharmendra is stable and under observation. Further comments and updates will be shared as available. We request everyone to pray for his speedy recovery and respect the family’s right to privacy,” the statement read.

Born in December 1935, Dharmendra will turn 90 on December 8, 2025. Known fondly as the ‘He-Man of Bollywood,’ he has been one of Indian cinema’s most celebrated stars for over six decades, with memorable performances in films such as Sholay, Chupke Chupke, Phool Aur Patthar, and Satyakam.

He was last seen in the romantic sci-fi film Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya alongside Shahid Kapoor and Kriti Sanon. His upcoming project, Sriram Raghavan’s Ikkis, features Agastya Nanda- grandson of Amitabh Bachchan- in his debut role.

The film is slated for release on December 25, 2025.