During a promotional event in Qatar on Friday, Salman Khan offered prayers for Dharmendra’s speedy recovery. Responding to a question about his fitness inspiration, Salman said, “Before I came, there was only one man, and that is Dharam ji. He is like a father to me. I love him very much and just want him to recover quickly and come back.” Actors Jacqueline Fernandez and Tamannaah Bhatia, part of Salman’s Dabangg Tour, were also present.
The industry’s show of solidarity came amid widespread criticism of a leaked video allegedly recorded inside the hospital, capturing an emotional moment between Dharmendra and his family. Initial reports claimed a hospital staffer had been arrested for filming the private footage, though a subsequent report indicated that no formal detention had taken place.
The leak triggered sharp reactions from influential figures across the industry. The Indian Film and Television Directors’ Association (IFTDA) filed a formal complaint, calling the act “intrusive” and “inhumane.” Filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar urged the media to respect the family’s privacy during “such difficult times,” while Karan Johar condemned the coverage as “heartbreaking” and “an insult” to a screen legend. Several others, including Ameesha Patel, Farah Khan Ali, and Nikitin Dheer, echoed the sentiment.
The backlash intensified after rumors of Dharmendra’s demise circulated across sections of the media on November 11, prompting his wife Hema Malini and daughter Esha Deol to publicly denounce the false reports. Hema termed the spread of misinformation “unforgivable,” while Esha clarified that her father’s condition was stable. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and writer Javed Akhtar, who posted condolences based on the erroneous reports, later withdrew or clarified their statements.
Dharmendra had been admitted on November 10 after experiencing breathing difficulties. His sons Sunny and Bobby Deol remained by his side throughout, with family members—including Hema Malini, Esha Deol, and Abhay Deol—visiting frequently. A stream of well-wishers, including Amitabh Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, Aamir Khan, Govinda, and other colleagues, visited the hospital before his discharge.
Following his return home, the Deol family appealed to the public and media to refrain from speculation and allow Dharmendra the privacy needed for his recovery. Hema Malini said the past week had been “emotionally difficult,” adding that the family was relieved he had returned home but remained vigilant about his health.
Dharmendra, who has faced intermittent health concerns in recent years, is expected to appear next in Ikkees, a biographical drama on Param Vir Chakra awardee Arun Khetarpal, featuring Agastya Nanda in the lead role.
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