Hema Malini lashes out at Indian media over false reports on Dharmendra’s death

Veteran Bollywood actress Hema Malini took to X to dismiss reports of her 89-year-old husband Dharmendra’s death, which had been widely circulated by Indian media outlets.

She stated that Dharmendra is recovering, adding that the media has been consistently spreading fake news about his condition.

"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 extremely disrespectful and irresponsible. Please give due respect to the family and its need for privacy," Hema Malini’s post read.

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.

— Hema Malini (@dreamgirlhema) November 11, 2025

Earlier, her daughter Esha Deol also confirmed that her father was alive and recovering.

"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 your prayers for Papa’s speedy recovery," she wrote in an Instagram post early Tuesday morning.

The news of Dharmendra’s death had been widely circulated across India, with several outlets known for their credibility even publishing obituary articles. The rumors about Dharmendra’s death had started on Monday, but the actor’s wife and daughter publicly refuted the false reports.

Prominent journalist Rajdeep Sardesai, controversial lyricist Javed Akhtar, and Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh posted condolence messages on X, prompting the family to issue clarifications.

Indian paparazzi were also spotted outside the hospital where Dharmendra is admitted, which Bollywood stars such as Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, and Govinda visited to check on the legendary actor.

Born in 1935 in Indian Punjab, Dharmendra has appeared in over 300 films. The veteran star had been admitted to the hospital last week due to breathing difficulties.

Dharmendra’s latest film, which he completed before his illness, is set to be released on December 25.

In recognition of his outstanding contribution to Indian cinema, the Government of India honored him with the Padma Bhushan, the country’s third-highest civilian award, in 2012.