Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai
Mumbai, Nov 11: As social media buzzed with false reports claiming the demise of veteran Bollywood legend Dharmendra, several celebrities, including actress Bhagyashree, mistakenly shared condolence messages before learning that the news was fake. The actor’s family and team have since confirmed that he is alive, stable, and responding well to treatment.
Taking to Instagram, Bhagyashree expressed regret for unintentionally sharing the misinformation, writing, “Oh my God! How horrible for fake news to be spread like this about a person so revered! I am so sorry for sharing my condolences post for Dharamji… it’s simply what I heard on the news. I apologize. May God bless him with a speedy recovery.”
Dharmendra’s son and actor Sunny Deol’s team also addressed the rumours, reassuring fans that the 88-year-old star is “recovering and responding to treatment.” The team urged everyone to rely on verified updates and avoid spreading unconfirmed information.
“Mr. Dharmendra is stable and under observation. Further updates will be shared as available. Kindly don’t indulge in spreading false rumours regarding his health. Please respect the family’s privacy and continue to pray for his recovery,” read an earlier statement from Sunny Deol’s office.
Veteran actress Hema Malini, Dharmendra’s wife, strongly condemned the circulation of fake news, calling it “unforgivable.” She said, “How can responsible channels spread such false information about someone who is recovering? This behaviour is deeply disrespectful and irresponsible. Please give our family the privacy we deserve.”
Their daughter Esha Deol also reassured fans, posting, “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 all the prayers for Papa’s speedy recovery.”
The incident has once again sparked debate over the rise of misinformation and irresponsible reporting on social media, with fans and industry colleagues calling for greater sensitivity and verification before sharing health updates about public figures.