In a touching display of Bollywood camaraderie, veteran actor Shatrughan Sinha along with his wife Poonam Sinha recently visited Hema Malini at her residence to check on the health of legendary actor Dharmendra, who is currently recuperating at home after a hospital stay.
Heartwarming Meeting Between Bollywood Icons
The meeting took place at Hema Malini's home where Shatrughan Sinha, affectionately known as Shotgun, and his better half spent time with the Dream Girl to personally inquire about Dharmendra's wellbeing. The veteran actor, aged 89, had been hospitalized in Mumbai on October 31 and remained under medical care for over a week before being discharged on November 12.
Shatrughan Sinha documented this special visit on his X (formerly Twitter) account, sharing several photographs from the meeting. In his heartfelt post, he wrote: "Along with my 'bestest half' @PoonamSinha went to meet, greet & God Bless, our very dear family friend, one of the finest human beings, star/actress, par excellence, artist of the highest calibre, an able Parliamentarian @dreamgirlhema Our prayers are with them all & we inquired about 'his' our elder brother's & the family's wellbeing too."
Dharmendra's Health Journey
Dharmendra was admitted to Mumbai's prestigious Breach Candy Hospital after experiencing breathing difficulties. His hospital stay spanned nearly two weeks, during which the entertainment industry and fans across the nation held their breath praying for the beloved actor's recovery.
Unfortunately, the veteran star's hospitalisation period was marred by disturbing false rumors circulating online about his demise. Hema Malini, his wife and fellow Bollywood icon, took to social media to express her outrage at these irresponsible reports. She posted strongly: "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."
Earlier, the actress had shared a positive update about her husband's condition, posting a photograph of Dharmendra with the message: "I thank everyone for their concern about Dharam ji who is in hospital for observation. He is being continuously monitored and we are all with him. I request you all to pray for his welfare and speedy recovery."
Industry Support and Fan Reactions
The entertainment industry has shown tremendous support for the recovering actor. Shatrughan Sinha had previously shared a nostalgic clip from The Kapil Sharma Show featuring Dharmendra, captioning it: "With love regards, great well-being, God Bless for our beloved, my elder brother Dharmji. Sharing this beautiful clip from 'TKSS'...pure entertainment! #SundayHumourSpecial."
Fans have been equally supportive, with one commenting on Shatrughan's post: "What a beautiful moment captured—timeless grace and warmth in one frame! Sir @ShatruganSinha, your words ring so true; @dreamgirlhema ji's elegance and poise are unmatched, and it's heartening to see such enduring bonds. Praying for @aapkadharam ji's swift recovery and good health for the entire family."
The situation also saw Dharmendra's son, actor Sunny Deol, confronting photographers stationed outside their family home following his father's discharge from the hospital. This incident drew reactions from several Bollywood personalities including filmmaker Karan Johar, actors Nikitin Dheer and Ameesha Patel, and IFTDA president Ashoke Pandit, who collectively criticized the paparazzi for their intrusive behavior during this sensitive time.
As Dharmendra continues his recovery journey at home, the outpouring of love and support from colleagues, friends, and admirers highlights the deep affection and respect the veteran actor commands in the Indian film industry and beyond.