The recent hospitalization of veteran actor Dharmendra, fondly known as the "He-Man" of Indian cinema, has stirred concern and well-wishes from fans and the film fraternity alike. The 89-year-old actor was admitted to Mumbai's Breach Candy Hospital due to breathlessness, prompting an outpouring of support. Among those deeply affected was Sunita Ahuja, wife of actor Govinda, who revealed her emotional reaction to the news.
In her latest YouTube vlog, Sunita Ahuja shared her heartfelt sentiments about Dharmendra, admitting she broke down upon learning he was in the ICU. Recalling her long-time admiration for the superstar, Sunita said, "Oh my god! Woh toh mere jaan hain, Dharam ji... Mere childhood crush hai! Aur mujhe itne pasand hain". She fondly remembered performing with him on stage and expressed how deeply she cares for him.
Sunita further elaborated on her emotional state, explaining that her daughter's call about Dharmendra's condition led to uncontrollable crying. "My daughter called me, and I cried so much that I became unwell," she said. Even upon arriving at Mumbai airport, she continued praying for his recovery, telling the media, "I am praying to the Goddess that she keeps him healthy and happy". With unwavering optimism, she added, "Punjabi hain, kabhi haar nahi maanenge (Punjabis never give up). Humaare film industry ke He-Man ek hi hain, woh hain Dharam ji".
Sunita's concerns echo the sentiments of many in the industry. Hema Malini, Dharmendra's wife, acknowledged the challenges the family faced during this period. Speaking to Subhash K Jha, she said, "It has not been an easy time for me... Dharamji's health is a matter of great concern for us. His children are sleepless. I can't afford to be weak – there are too many responsibilities". She expressed relief that he was back home, emphasizing the need for him to be surrounded by loved ones.
Adding to the chorus of well-wishers, numerous celebrities visited Dharmendra at the hospital and his Mumbai home after his discharge. Stars like Aamir Khan, accompanied by his girlfriend Gauri Spratt, Salman Khan, and Govinda were among those who offered their support. Salman Khan expressed that Dharmendra is like a father to him and conveyed his sincere hope for the veteran actor's speedy recovery.
Dharmendra was discharged from Breach Candy Hospital on Wednesday, November 11, and is currently recovering at home under medical supervision. Dr. Rajiv Sharma from the hospital stated that the actor left "fully satisfied" after receiving the necessary treatment. A statement released by Sunny Deol's team requested privacy for the family during this time.
Following his discharge, emotional fans gathered outside Dharmendra's residence to wish him well. A video capturing a devoted fan holding a poster that read, "O God, please get well soon Dharam ji," went viral, underscoring the deep affection the public holds for the legendary actor.
Unfortunately, the period of concern was marred by the spread of false rumors regarding Dharmendra's death, which Hema Malini vehemently condemned as "unforgivable". Furthermore, a hospital employee was arrested for leaking a private video of Dharmendra in the ICU, sparking outrage and condemnation for the invasion of the family's privacy.
Despite these challenges, the Deol family has expressed gratitude for the outpouring of love and prayers. Dharmendra's son, Sunny Deol, previously praised his father's performance in the upcoming film Ikkis, expressing confidence that the veteran actor is ready to shine on the big screen once again. Dharmendra is set to appear in Ikkis, scheduled for release in December 2025.
