Key Points
- Bollywood legend Dharmendra, 89, was admitted to Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital on Friday, October 31, 2025, for routine medical check-ups and has been under observation for 4-5 days
- Sources close to the actor’s family have confirmed there is no cause for concern, stating he undergoes periodic health tests given his age and is “absolutely fine” and in “great spirits”
- The actor chose to stay at the hospital for 2-3 days to complete all routine tests at once rather than commute daily, as traveling back and forth can be tiring at his age
- His sons Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, currently busy with their respective film shoots, are keeping close watch on their father’s health and staying updated on medical tests and results
- Dharmendra will turn 90 on December 8, 2025, and is set to appear in Sriram Raghavan’s war drama “Ikkis” alongside Agastya Nanda, releasing in December
Mumbai: Veteran Bollywood actor Dharmendra has been admitted to Mumbai’s prestigious Breach Candy Hospital for what his team has confirmed is a routine medical check-up, though the news sparked immediate concern among his millions of fans across social media platforms on Friday. The 89-year-old legendary actor, who will celebrate his 90th birthday on December 8, 2025, has reportedly been under medical observation for the past four to five days as doctors conduct a series of periodic health tests. However, sources close to the Deol family have moved swiftly to reassure worried admirers that the hospitalization is merely precautionary and part of his regular health regimen, given his advanced age.
Family Sources Clarify Health Status
A representative from Dharmendra’s team spoke to India Today to address the growing speculation, stating categorically, “He undergoes a series of tests periodically given his age, and is in the hospital for the same. Someone may have spotted him and created a news piece. He is absolutely fine and there’s nothing to be worried about”. The source further elaborated that the actor’s hospital visits have become part of his long-standing health routine, adding, “He is in great spirits and just went for his scheduled tests,” and reassuring fans that the beloved star remains “hale and hearty”. Another source close to the family confirmed to Hindustan Times, “Yes, Dharmendra is currently at Breach Candy Hospital, but there is absolutely no cause for concern. The actor is in good health and visits the hospital often for routine medical tests, which is the reason for his current stay”.
Strategic Decision to Complete Tests at Once
According to insiders familiar with the situation, it was Dharmendra’s own decision to remain admitted at the hospital for the duration of his medical tests rather than traveling back and forth daily from his residence. The source explained the practical reasoning behind this choice: “Dharmendra undergoes multiple routine tests that usually take around two to three days to complete. Given that he is 89, daily travel can be tiring at this age. Hence, he himself chose to stay at the hospital and finish all the tests at once instead of commuting back and forth each day”. This pragmatic approach reflects the actor’s continued sharpness and concern for managing his health efficiently while minimizing physical strain.
Sons Monitor Father’s Health Closely
Dharmendra’s sons, Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, both successful actors in their own right, are keeping a vigilant watch over their father’s condition despite their busy professional commitments. According to family sources, the brothers, who are currently occupied with their respective film shoots, have been in constant touch with the medical team to ensure everything progresses smoothly and are staying regularly updated on all medical tests and results. The close-knit bond between Dharmendra and his sons has been well-documented over the years, with both Sunny and Bobby frequently expressing their admiration and love for their legendary father.
Living Arrangements with First Wife
In a recent interview, Bobby Deol revealed personal details about his father’s living situation, sharing that Dharmendra continues to reside with his first wife, Prakash Kaur, at their farmhouse located in Khandala, near Mumbai. This arrangement has been in place for several years, allowing the veteran actor to enjoy a peaceful environment away from the hustle of the city while remaining close enough to access Mumbai’s world-class medical facilities when needed. The farmhouse setting provides Dharmendra with the tranquility and space to maintain his fitness routines and enjoy his golden years.
Commitment to Fitness Despite Age
Despite approaching his 90th birthday, Dharmendra has demonstrated remarkable dedication to maintaining his physical fitness and overall health. The actor regularly shares videos of his fitness routines on social media platforms, inspiring fans with his discipline and positive attitude. Most recently, he posted an uplifting video from his physiotherapy session, showcasing his strong commitment to staying active and healthy. In the caption accompanying the clip, Dharmendra wrote, “Friends, thanks to your good wishes and his blessings, I am putting in great effort to stay fit and healthy. Yoga, exercise, and now physiotherapy”. These posts have endeared him further to his fan base, who appreciate his transparency and determination.
Previous Eye Surgery Earlier This Year
This is not Dharmendra’s first medical procedure in 2025, as he underwent an eye graft surgery (corneal transplantation) in April of this year. When photographers noticed his bandaged eye as he exited the hospital after the procedure, they expressed concern about his condition. In characteristic Dharmendra fashion, the actor responded with his trademark charm and positivity, telling them, “I am strong. Abhi bhi Dharmendra mein bahut dum hai. Abhi bhi jaan rakhta hoon. Meri aankh, eye graft (corneal transplantation) ho gayi hai. I am strong” (Dharmendra still has a lot of strength. I still have the spirit. My eye has undergone an eye graft, I am strong). He concluded his interaction by expressing gratitude: “Love you, my audience and my fans”.
Sunny Deol’s Reassurance About Father’s Health
Following the eye surgery in April, Sunny Deol also addressed media concerns about his father’s condition during a press conference for his film “Jaat” in Delhi. Seeking to allay fears among fans and media personnel, Sunny stated clearly, “Papa ekdum theek hain, cataract ka operation tha, chhota sa tha, aisa kuch nahi” (Dad is absolutely fine. He had a small cataract surgery. Nothing to worry about). His straightforward communication helped calm anxieties at that time, and he has maintained a similar approach during this recent hospitalization by staying in touch with doctors and keeping family members informed.
Past Hospitalization in 2022
According to the original report, this current hospitalization is not the first health scare Dharmendra has faced in recent years. In 2022, he was reportedly hospitalized for several days due to a muscle strain, during which time he personally shared a video with fans to inform them about his condition and urged them not to worry about his health. This pattern of direct communication with his audience demonstrates Dharmendra’s continued connection with the public that has supported him throughout his illustrious six-decade career in Indian cinema.
Social Media Reaction and Fan Support
As news of the hospitalization spread across social media platforms on Friday, concerned fans immediately began flooding timelines with prayers, get-well messages, and expressions of support for the veteran actor. The outpouring of affection demonstrates the enduring popularity and respect Dharmendra commands even after retiring from leading roles. Fans shared throwback clips from his iconic films, reminisced about his memorable performances, and expressed hopes for his continued good health. The hashtags related to his name began trending on Twitter/X as admirers from across generations united in sending positive thoughts toward the beloved star.
Illustrious Career Spanning Six Decades
Dharmendra’s career in Hindi cinema spans a remarkable six decades, beginning in the 1960s when he emerged as one of Bollywood’s most charismatic leading men. Known for his powerful screen presence, natural acting style, and versatility across genres, he delivered countless memorable performances in films like “Sholay,” “Phool Aur Patthar,” “Satyakam,” “Chupke Chupke,” and “Seeta Aur Geeta” among hundreds of others. His pairing with actress-politician Hema Malini, whom he married, created one of Bollywood’s most celebrated on-screen and off-screen partnerships. Even in his later years, Dharmendra has remained selective about film appearances but continues to accept roles that resonate with him.
Recent Film Appearances
Dharmendra was most recently seen in “Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya” (2024), a romantic comedy starring Shahid Kapoor and Kriti Sanon, where he played a supporting role that was well-received by audiences. Before that, he appeared in Karan Johar’s “Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani” (2023), where his performance alongside Shabana Azmi garnered particular praise from critics and viewers alike. These recent appearances demonstrate that despite his advanced age, Dharmendra retains the ability to deliver compelling performances and remains a draw for filmmakers seeking to add gravitas and star power to their projects.
Upcoming Film “Ikkis” Generates Excitement
The veteran actor is set to appear next in Sriram Raghavan’s highly anticipated war drama “Ikkis,” which is scheduled to release in December 2025. The film stars Agastya Nanda, grandson of Amitabh Bachchan (Dharmendra’s “Sholay” co-star), in the lead role of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, who became the youngest recipient of the Param Vir Chakra, India’s highest military decoration for valor. The cast also includes acclaimed actors Jaideep Ahlawat, Sikandar Kher, and newcomer Simar Bhatia. The recently released trailer for “Ikkis” received overwhelmingly positive responses, with viewers particularly praising the performances and Raghavan’s direction.
Sunny Deol’s Pride in Father’s Performance
Following the release of the “Ikkis” trailer, Sunny Deol expressed immense pride in his father’s powerful performance in the film. According to the original report, Sunny responded by praising Dharmendra’s screen presence and stating that his father is ready to make a splash on the big screen once again with this important historical war drama. The film represents a significant project for the veteran actor, allowing him to be part of a prestigious production that honors a genuine war hero’s sacrifice for the nation.
No Official Family Statement Yet
As of Friday evening, no official statement has been issued by Dharmendra’s family regarding his current hospitalization, though multiple sources close to the family have independently confirmed to various media outlets that the situation is completely under control and there is nothing to worry about. The family’s decision to rely on background communications through sources rather than formal press releases suggests they view the hospitalization as a routine matter not requiring elaborate public explanation. This approach is consistent with how the family has handled similar situations in the past, maintaining privacy while ensuring fans receive accurate information to prevent unnecessary panic.
Age-Related Health Management
Medical experts note that for individuals approaching 90 years of age, regular comprehensive health check-ups are not just advisable but essential for early detection of any potential issues and proactive health management. Dharmendra’s periodic hospital visits for extensive testing reflect responsible health management practices recommended for senior citizens, particularly those with active lifestyles. The tests likely include cardiovascular assessments, metabolic panels, kidney and liver function tests, bone density scans, and other age-appropriate screenings that help doctors monitor his overall health status and make necessary adjustments to medications or lifestyle recommendations.
Legacy and Impact on Indian Cinema
As Dharmendra approaches his 90th birthday, the entertainment industry and film historians continue to celebrate his immense contribution to Indian cinema. His journey from a small-town boy to becoming one of Bollywood’s most enduring superstars remains an inspiration for aspiring actors. Beyond his commercial success, Dharmendra is remembered for bringing authenticity and depth to his roles, whether playing romantic heroes, action stars, or character parts in his later career. His sons, Sunny and Bobb, have successfully carried forward the family legacy in films, while his grandsons are also making their mark in the industry.
Fans’ Continued Prayers and Support
Despite the reassurances from family sources that Dharmendra’s condition is stable and his hospitalization is merely routine, fans continue to keep him in their thoughts and prayers. Social media remains flooded with messages hoping for his speedy completion of tests and safe return home. Many fans have expressed relief upon learning that the hospitalization is precautionary rather than due to any emergency or serious health crisis. The widespread concern and subsequent relief demonstrate the deep emotional connection millions of Indians feel toward the actor who has entertained and inspired them for over six decades.
