Veteran Bollywood actor Dharmendra, aged 89, is currently recuperating at his home after being discharged from Mumbai's Breach Candy Hospital. The legendary star's recent health scare, which involved a stay in the ICU, has drawn an outpouring of concern and well-wishes from fans and colleagues across the film industry.
Sunita Ahuja's Heartfelt Confession
Among those deeply affected was Sunita Ahuja, the wife of actor Govinda. In a highly emotional YouTube vlog, Sunita opened up about her long-standing admiration for the actor, whom she fondly called her "childhood crush" and her "jaan" (life).
Recounting a special memory for a fan, she revealed how the news of Dharmendra's hospitalisation led to an unexpected emotional breakdown. "When I returned from Dubai and heard that he was in the ICU, you won't believe it—I was heading to an event and I cried so much," she shared. Her daughter called her, and she cried to the point of feeling unwell.
Sunita also reminisced about the time she performed on stage with the veteran star. "I once did a show with him and we even danced together. He is my childhood crush! I like him so much," she said emotionally.
Even upon landing in Mumbai, her primary concern was his well-being. When approached by the media at the airport, she stated that she was praying to the Goddess to keep him "healthy and happy." She expressed her unwavering faith in his strength, saying, "He's Punjabi, he will never give up. There is only one He-Man in our film industry, and that is Dharam ji." She concluded her message with a heartfelt prayer for his long life.
Sunny Deol Confronts Intrusive Media
Dharmendra's health episode also cast a spotlight on the often intrusive behaviour of the paparazzi. Shortly after his father's discharge, actor Sunny Deol was filmed confronting photographers stationed outside their family home.
A visibly distressed Sunny folded his hands and told them, "You should be ashamed... You also have parents and children at home." This plea for privacy and respect during a difficult time for the Deol family resonated across the industry.
Industry Stands in Solidarity
Sunny Deol's reaction prompted a wave of support from numerous Bollywood personalities. Celebrities like Karan Johar, Jackie Shroff, Farah Khan Ali, Nikitin Dheer, Ameesha Patel, and Madhur Bhandarkar publicly criticised the lack of courtesy and sensitivity shown by certain sections of the media.
This collective condemnation highlights the ongoing tension between a celebrity's right to privacy and media scrutiny, especially during personal health crises. As Dharmendra continues his recovery at home, the industry and his legion of fans continue to send their love and best wishes for his speedy return to good health.
