Dharmendra Health Updates: Salman Khan, Jaya Prada and other celebs wish for veteran actor’s speedy recovery

Megastar Amitabh Bachchan appears to have echoed concerns over reports in a section of the media and paparazzi coverage surrounding the 89-year-old veteran actor Dharmendra and the Deol family, following the veteran actor's recent hospitalisation.
Taking to his X handle, Amitabh Bachchan shared a cryptic note expressing his anguish.

He wrote, "no ethics .. no ethics at all."

Amitabh had earlier shared a cryptic note on his blog in which he took an apparent jibe at the paparazzi.

"No ethics .. no sense of responsibility .. just an avenue of personal gain, without any consideration of the moment ..Disturbing and disgusting..," the veteran actor wrote in his blog on Tumblr.

Although Amitabh didn't mention any names or specifics, social media users were quick to connect his remarks to the criticism against some media platforms and paparazzi for allegedly overstepping the boundaries in reports concerning Dharmendra's health.

Salman Khan, who has always inspired millions with his fitness and on-screen presence, shared the name of the person who inspired him long before he became a superstar, and it's veteran actor Dharmendra.
During a recent media interaction ahead of his 'Da-Bangg Tour' in Qatar, Salman was asked about the source of his early fitness inspiration. The 'Sultan' star did not think twice before naming Dharmendra as his biggest role model.

In the video that is now going viral on social media, Salman can be seen saying, "Mere aane se pehle ek hi shaks the woh hain Dharam ji. He is like my father, that's the end. I love that man and I just hope that he will come back."

During a recent media interaction ahead of his ‘Da-Bangg Tour’ in Qatar, Salman Khan named Dharmendra as his lifelong fitness inspiration. In a video circulating on social media, the 'Sultan' actor is asked about the source of his early motivation, and he instantly points to the veteran star. He shared, “Mere aane se pehle ek hi shakhs the, aur woh hain Dharam ji.” (Before I came, there was only one man, and that is Dharam ji.)

Speaking about their bond, Salman added with emotion, “He is like my father, that’s the end. I love that man and I just hope that he will come back.”

As news of Dharmendra’s ill health has left fans and colleagues worried, Jaya Prada has joined countless well-wishers praying for his recovery. The actress shared an emotional message on social media, expressing her love and concern for the legendary star.

Jaya Prada posted a picture of Dharmendra on her official social media account and penned a heartfelt note filled with admiration and worry. She wrote, “Respected Dharam Ji, I am very worried about your health. You have been a source of inspiration, strength, and grace for all of us in the film industry. Your charm and enthusiasm will continue to touch millions of hearts.”

She went on to pray for his speedy recovery, adding, “May you recover soon and your health be good. May you return to your vibrant self soon and continue to give love and positivity as always.”

Shatrughan Sinha once appeared on 'The Kapil Sharma Show' along with his full family - which also included Sonakshi Sinha and husband Zaheer Iqbal. During a fun interaction with Kapil, Shatrughan shared a fun advice which he got from his friend Dharmendra. He shared, "Dharmendra once told me, ‘Dekh tu film industry mein aaya hai, teri bohot kudiya deewani hai. (Look pal, you are a part of the film industry, many girls are crazy about you.) Always be a one-woman man....at a time." Archana Puran Singh and everyone laughed on hearing the 'at a time' line. Zaheer was shocked on hearing it, and he said, "I thought it was a family episode. What’s happening?"

Legendary film director Hrishikesh Mukherjee best known for light-hearted comic dramas, was in fact a disciplinarian who managed to silence superstars like Dharmendra and Amitabh Bachchan, reveals actor Asrani."Mukherjee was not a director, he was a headmaster. How to speak, what to say, what not say. He would instruct everyone, kya Amitabh, kya Dharmendra!" says the actor who has worked with Mukherjee in several of his films.

ring the making of the 1975 comedy 'Chupke Chupke' Asrani, donning a suit for his character went to ask Mukherjee about a following scene, only in vain."I was on the set wearing a suit. Hrishi da was sitting with writer Rahi Masoom Raza. Both of them were playing chess. There were 4-5 assistant directors and I enquired from them about the scene. But no one responded," he says.

Then came in Dharmendra wearing a driver's uniform, and asked Asrani in suprise, "Main tera driver bana hoon! (I am playing the role of your driver?""In those days, there would be budgetary restrictions and we used to get clothes from old films. I generally did not get to wear suits in films and now that I was wearing one, Dharmendra got scared and asked, 'What is going on? What is the scene? How did you get a suit and I get driver's dress? Suit toh apne baap ko bhi nahi dega Hrishikesh Mukherjee'" says the 75-year-old comedian.By this time, Mukherjee had seen all the movements on the set and shouted at Dharmendra,"'Aye Dharam! What are you asking Asrani?' The scene, right? Arey, if you had any sense for story, would you have been a hero then?" Asrani recalls adding that according to the director, had Dharmendra had the ability to understand a scene he would have been a director instead of an actor.

Dharmendra was the highest paid actor on the film. Several reports suggest that Dharmendra the highest-paid actor on the sets, receiving ₹1.5 lakh. Sanjeev Kumar, who embodied the resilient Thakur Baldev Singh, was paid ₹1.25 lakh. Meanwhile, Amitabh Bachchhan was paid ₹ 1lakh for his role. The menacing yet unforgettable Gabbar Singh, played by Amjad Khan, earned him ₹50,000. Among the leading ladies, Hema Malini took home ₹75,000, whereas Jaya Bachchan received the least—just ₹35,000.

day after veteran actor Dharmendra was discharged from Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital, his son Sunny Deol lost his cool at paparazzi gathered outside the family’s Juhu residence. For those unaware, Dharmendra had been hospitalised for over ten days before being allowed to return home. The legendary actor got discharged on Wednesday morning and since then, the paps have been gathered outside his house.The Deol family has been facing an emotionally difficult period due to Dharmendra’s health concerns. Despite repeated requests for privacy, fans and photographers have continued to crowd outside the actor’s house. On November 13, Sunny Deol stepped out to address the media and, with folded hands, expressed his frustration, saying, "Aapke ghar mein maa-baap hain, aapke ghar mein bacche hain... Sharam nahi aati?" Amidst his frustation, Sunny also uttered an abusive word.

The Indian Film and Television Directors' Association (IFTDA) has lodged a formal police complaint against certain paparazzi and online media platforms for what it described as "inhuman" and "unethical" behavior in their coverage of veteran actor Dharmendra’s recent health condition.

In a letter addressed to the Senior Inspector of Juhu Police Station, IFTDA President Ashoke Pandit stated that some paparazzi and digital media accounts “breached privacy” by entering the premises of the veteran actor’s residence and “recording footage and images of his family members without consent.” The visuals were later circulated online.

IFTDA has urged the police to take strict legal action against those responsible and called for a strong precedent to prevent similar incidents in the future.

In the formal complaint addressed to Mr. Sunil Jadhav, Senior Inspector of Police, Juhu Police Station, Ashoke Pandit wrote, “I, Ashoke Pandit, Hon. President of the Indian Film & Television Directors’ Association (IFTDA), wish to lodge a formal complaint against certain unverified and scrupulous paparazzi and online media handlers who have crossed all limits of decency and ethics in the recent coverage related to the illness of Padma Bhushan Shri Dharmendra Ji, one of the most respected legends of Indian cinema.”

The letter further stated, “It has come to our attention that certain paparazzi and digital media accounts have breached privacy by entering the premises of Shri Dharmendra Ji’s residence and recorded footage and images of his family members without consent. These visuals have been circulated publicly for sensationalism and profit, without any concern for legality, decency, or emotional distress caused to the family.”

Calling the act “inhuman, unethical, and a gross violation of the right to privacy guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution of India,” Pandit wrote that the behavior amounted to criminal offences involving unauthorized trespass, invasion of privacy, and defamation under the Indian Penal Code and the Information Technology Act.

He added, “Our film personalities are not commodities—they are human beings who deserve basic dignity and respect, especially during times of personal distress. The continued harassment and intrusion by such elements not only harms individuals but also tarnishes the integrity of Indian media and journalism as a whole.”

IFTDA’s complaint, shared on the association’s official social media accounts, was captioned, “IFTDA strongly condemns the disgraceful and unethical conduct of certain paparazzi in their intrusive reporting of Shri Dharmendra Ji’s health. Their reckless behaviour is unacceptable and inhuman. A formal police complaint has been filed, and we demand strict action to ensure such indecency is never repeated.”

Renowned jewellery designer Farah Khan Ali has called out the paparazzi for its insensitive handling of veteran actor Dharmendra’s hospitalisation. Her statement comes just days after the demise of her mother, Zarine Khan, wife of Bollywood veteran Sanjay Khan, on November 7.

Following Zarine Khan’s passing, reports of Dharmendra’s ill health and alleged ventilator support left fans concerned. However, Farah took to Instagram to condemn the paparazzi for invading privacy and sensationalising personal tragedies.

In a heartfelt note, she wrote, “My mother passed away 6 days ago and there were some here who were more interested in why she chose to be cremated instead of giving condolences. Dharm Uncle is in hospital and a video of his personal family goes viral.”

Expressing her disappointment at the growing insensitivity, Farah continued, “Are we as a nation so insensitive to people? Don’t public figures also have families that have feelings? What happened to humanity? Why does every imbecile out here have an opinion on how others should lead their lives? Tragedy strikes all. When it’s your turn, and trust me it will be, there will be others like you hurting you like you hurt us.”

Zarine Khan, who passed away at the age of 81, is survived by her husband Sanjay Khan, daughters Sussanne, Farah, Simone Arora, and son Zayed.

Nikitin Dheer, who lost his father, veteran Mahabharat actor Pankaj Dheer, last month, has strongly condemned the recent wave of insensitive media coverage surrounding Dharmendra’s health and Jeetendra’s fall at Zarine Khan’s prayer meet. Taking to Instagram on Thursday, Nikitin expressed deep disappointment with the paparazzi, calling them “vultures” and “despicable.”

In a powerful note shared on his Instagram story, Nikitin wrote, “I lost a piece of my heart recently and witnessed firsthand how despicable the so-called paparazzi can be. It doesn’t feel like you’re talking to fellow human beings, it feels like you’re encircled by vultures.”

The actor’s words come amid growing outrage over the circulation of videos showing veteran actor Jeetendra tripping and falling at a recent prayer meet, and another viral clip allegedly filmed inside the ICU of Breach Candy Hospital, showing an ailing Dharmendra on a hospital bed surrounded by family members.

Continuing his post, Nikitin expressed anger over the exploitation of vulnerable moments for social media engagement.

“I lost a lot of respect for them when I saw the way they filmed Shri Jeetendra and used his vulnerability for views. Now again, the way they are behaving when Shri Dharmendra is unwell — it’s just sad. As a society, is likes and views all that’s left of us?”

He further appealed for empathy and restraint.

“Such a demise of humanity. Aise samay logon ka tamasha mat banao. How can you be so insensitive to others? Try and understand what people are going through. I’m sure none of my words will make any difference, but one can’t just sit and watch this nonsense keep happening.”

Amitabh Bachchan’s latest blog post has left fans both intrigued and emotional. The veteran actor penned a cryptic yet deeply reflective message on Thursday, as his close friend and fellow veteran actor Dharmendra recovers at home after being discharged from Breach Candy Hospital on Wednesday morning.

Amitabh Bachchan’s note seemed to hint at the fragility of time and the strength needed to endure life’s challenges. He wrote, “Reconcile... and reconcile with what... when the reconciliation breeds none... Each day a moment of adversity... and the strength needed to cope and survive.”

The post came a day after Bachchan was spotted driving his BMW through the streets of Juhu, Mumbai — a rare public sighting that immediately drew attention. The video, which quickly went viral, showed the 82-year-old actor surrounded by paparazzi as he slowed down briefly, prompting speculation that he might have been on his way to visit his dear friend and Sholay co-star Dharmendra, who had just been discharged from the hospital hours earlier.

Actor Ameesha Patel has come forward to request the media and fans to give privacy to the Deol family amid the legendary actor Dharmendra's ailing health.

In an Instagram post, Ameesha, who shares a close bond with the Deol family, wrote, "I strongly believe the media needs to leave the Deol family alone at this time n respect their privacy."

A few days ago, Ameesha even visited the Breach Candy Hospital to extend her support to the Deol family.

Renowned choreographer and actor Sandip Soparrkar opened up about his long-standing association with the Dharmendra family.

In an exclusive interview with IANS, the actor shared that the Dharmendra family is very dear to him. He mentioned that Esha Deol is his student, and he has been performing with the family for almost ten years. When asked about his close bond with Dharmendra’s family, Sandip praised Dharmendra as a man with a “golden heart” and expressed his eagerness to see him back at rehearsals and pujas.

“Absolutely. Dharmendra ji’s family is very dear to me. Esha is my student, and I’ve been performing with them for nearly a decade — I play Shiva, and she portrays Ganga. I sincerely hope and pray for Dharam ji’s speedy recovery. He’s a wonderful man with a golden heart, and I can’t wait to see him back at our rehearsals and pujas,” shared Sandip Soparrkar.

After Sunny Deol's angry outburst at photographers outside his home, filmmaker Karan Johar and Madhur Bhandarkar have now spoken out against the constant media attention surrounding veteran actor Dharmendra, who is currently recovering after being discharged from the hospital.

On Thursday, Karan shared a message on his Instagram Story, saying, "...its hearbreaking to see a paparazzi and media circus for a living legend who has contributed SO massively to our cinema..."

Filmmaker Madhur Bhandarkar also shared a message on Instagram, saying, "It's high time for the media to respect the Deol family's personal privacy. Let's offer them the peaceful space they truly need, especially during challenging times."

Jaya Prada paid a visit to Dharmendra's house, glimpses of which she shared on social media.

She uploaded a couple of cheerful photos with Dharmendra along with the caption, “Today met one of my most respected co-artists in Mumbai - none other superstar legend respected Dharmendra ji at his residence and refreshed many old memories Dharm ji I wish god you always be happy and healthy @aapkadharam. (sic)”

Even Dharmendra posted some photos from the meet on his IG and wrote, “Jaya prada, my lovely co - star came to see me today along with loving family friends of her .i am extremely happy to see them all.”

Veteran actress Jaya Prada has shared her wishes for the speedy recovery of Dharmendra after he returned home following a massive health scare.

She said that the 'He-Man' of Bollywood has been a massive source of inspiration for the entire film fraternity and has touched countless hearts.

Revealing that she was extremely concerned regarding the health of the legendary actor, Jaya Prada wrote on her official Instagram account, "Resp. Dharam Ji, I was deeply concerned to hear about your health. You have always been a source of inspiration, strength, and grace for all of us in the film fraternity. Your charm and spirit continue to touch millions of hearts. (sic)"

"Wishing you a speedy recovery and good health. May you soon be back to your vibrant self, spreading love and positivity as always. With prayers and warm regards, Jaya Prada (folded hands emoji) @aapkadharam," she added.

Dharmendra will next star in 'Ikkis', which is Amitabh Bachchan's grandson, Agastya Nanda's debut film. It has been slated to hit theaters on December 25, 2025.

It read, "It's high time for the media to respect the Deol family's personal privacy. Let's offer them the peaceful space they truly need, especially during challenging times. ????????"

Bobby Deol once shared a heartwarming memory with his father, Dharmendra, following the massive success of the action drama ‘Animal’. The veteran actor couldn’t hold back from expressing his pride and love for his son.

In a past episode of ‘The Great Indian Kapil Show’, Bobby opened up about the special moment he shared with his father. Recalling the incident, Bobby, who played the role of Abrar in the Ranbir Kapoor-starrer ‘Animal’, said, “Every son wants to see that happiness in their father’s eyes, and I’ve always looked up to my father so much... I had returned home after a week, and dad had been scrolling through Instagram... He stopped me and then exclaimed 'Bob, people are crazy about you!' And I responded, 'I am your son, why wouldn’t they be crazy about me?'."

Bollywood legend Dharmendra’s recent health scare has left his fans deeply worried. While the veteran actor is now recovering at home, the Deol family has been facing constant attention from paparazzi and fans. Filmmaker Karan Johar stepped in after Sunny Deol’s angry reaction to photographers, criticising the media frenzy surrounding Dharmendra during his recovery. Calling the situation a “circus”, Karan urged everyone to show compassion and respect for the Deol family.

On Thursday, he shared a heartfelt note on his Instagram, “When basic courtesy and sensitivity leaves our hearts and our actions we know we are a doomed race,” he wrote. PLEASE leave a family alone!!!! They are already emotionally combatting so much.... It's heartbreaking to see a paparazzi and media circus for a living legend who has contributed so massively to our cinema... this is not coverage it's DISRESPECT.”

Filmmaker Subhash Ghai sent his heartfelt wishes to Dharmendra, praying for the legendary actor’s quick recovery. The ‘Sholay’ star is continuing his treatment at home following recent health concerns. Ghai, who has shared a long-standing bond with Dharmendra, expressed his love and respect for the actor while sending his warm message.

On Thursday, the director shared a picture on Instagram with the senior actor. In the photo, the two could be seen sitting together on a couch. Subhash Ghai captioned the image, “Our dearest HE-MAN OF OUR INDUSTRY SINCE 6 decades. Our beloved DHARAM PA JEE. Wishing u v early recovery. A star who always smiles n loves everyone – big or small. He is beloved to everyone always. God bless him a healthy life."

In a heartwarming throwback, veteran actor Dharmendra was seen dancing with pure joy to the beats of the dhol at his grandson Karan Deol’s wedding. Dressed in a brown suit and colourful turban, he shared a lively moment with son Bobby Deol. The video, from June 2023, continues to charm fans wishing him a speedy recovery.

Malayalam actor Babu Antony shared a heartwarming throwback photo with Bollywood legend Dharmendra from the sets of their 1996 film 'Mafia', calling it "a million dollar moment." In his post, Babu fondly recalled working with the "romantic, action icon" and wished Dharmendra a speedy recovery after his recent hospitalisation. The Hindi 'Mafia', an adaptation of the 1993 Malayalam hit, remains special to Babu as it marked a memorable collaboration with the veteran star and showcased his versatile action prowess.

When veteran actor Dharmendra took fans on a nostalgic ride by sharing a hilarious throwback clip from his 1984 film 'Insaaf Kaun Karega' with superstar Rajinikanth. The video featured a funny exchange between the duo, ending with Dharmendra's witty "aloo parathe" punchline. Sharing the moment on X, Dharmendra called Rajinikanth a "darling friend" and fondly recalled writing some of his own comedy scenes from the golden era.

Veteran filmmaker Subhash Ghai took to Instagram to wish Dharmendra a speedy recovery, sharing a warm throwback photo with the legendary actor. Calling him “the He-Man of our industry,” Ghai praised Dharmendra’s ever-smiling nature and his love for everyone. The 89-year-old actor, recently discharged from Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital after a bout of breathlessness, is now recovering at home. Doctors confirmed his stable condition, urging fans to pray for his health. Several Bollywood stars, including Salman Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, and Aamir Khan, reportedly visited Dharmendra during his hospital stay.

Dharmendra once shared a throwback snap on Instagram, where he is seen standing beside the veteran actor Ashok Kumar. Dharmendra is seen watching in awe as Ashok Kumar signs an autograph for him — not on paper, but on a hundred-rupee note. Also present in the frame are filmmaker Asit Sen and actor Mohan Choti, witnessing the heartwarming moment unfold.

Dharmendra captioned the post with characteristic warmth and humility: “Friends, an autograph from Dada Muni on hundred rupees note. Lovely memories. Director Asht Sen and Mohan Choti are watching thirdly.”

Veteran actor Dharmendra once delighted fans with a touching throwback moment featuring Jaya Bachchan, celebrating their decades-long bond that began in the early 1970s. Taking to Instagram, the beloved star shared a nostalgic photo with Jaya, likely captured on the sets of Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani, their most recent collaboration.

Accompanying the post, Dharmendra wrote, “Guddi will always be my loving doll. She is a world-class artist, and she always talks high about me. (From Guddi to Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani).”

At his sprawling 100-acre farmhouse, the actor spends most of his time tending to fruits, vegetables, and rice, living close to nature alongside his first wife, Prakash Kaur. The farmhouse, nestled in tranquil greenery and meandering fields, has become his retreat — a place where simplicity triumphs over stardom.

For Dharmendra, this isn’t a luxurious celebrity estate but a personal sanctuary built with love and care over decades. Far from the city’s buzz, it reflects his lifelong connection to the land and his deep affection for rural life. The actor often speaks about his fondness for “soil, crops, open skies and the everyday rhythm of the outdoors.”

During the trailer launch of his film ‘Jaat’ earlier this year, actor Sunny Deol shared a heartfelt story about his father, Dharmendra’s friendship with Manoj Kumar. The emotional moment reminded everyone of the golden era of cinema, where relationships in the industry were built on trust and love.

Recalling their close bond, as quoted by NDTV, the ‘Damini’ actor said, "Manojji came with our dad only. They both were together in the industry. He had always been a father figure for us, and I have always seen him with my father during childhood. My dad had a great connection with him. I would just say that the films that he did were on India, bahut pyaari thi. Usi se deshbhakti ka silsila shuru hua tha (They were lovely. The tradition of patriotic films started with that)."

Dharmendra and Salman Khan's affection for each other is well known to everyone. The superstar has expressed multiple times how much he admires the veteran legend. Not just Dharmendra, Khan shares a good bond with the entire Deol family. This equation has been existing since Salman was young and the rising star of Bollywood. Amidst the 'Dabanng' actor visiting the veteran star at the hospital, an old video of the duo sharing a stage has surfaced.
In the clip, which has probably been shot in the 1990s, the duo was seen attending an event. During the same, the veteran actor interacted with the audience, where he made a small goof-up. After introducing Madhuri Dixit, he called Salman Khan, "Aur saath mein mera beta Suleiman (And with her, my son Suleiman)."

Veteran actor Dharmendra was discharged from Breach Candy Hospital on Wednesday morning, days after being admitted for routine tests. His family and doctor confirmed that the 89-year-old will continue his recovery at home under medical supervision. Amid speculation about his health, the family issued a statement requesting privacy and reassuring fans that the beloved actor is doing well.

Sharing her thoughts, Hema Malini admitted that the past few days have been emotionally draining. “It has not been an easy time for me,” she told Subhash K Jha.“Dharamji's health is a matter of great concern for us. His children are sleepless. I can't afford to be weak, too many responsibilities. But yes, I am happy he's back home. We are relieved he is out of hospital. He needs to be among the people he loves. Baki toh sab oopar wale ke haath mein hai (Everything else is in the hands of the Almighty). Please pray for us,” she concluded.

Bollywood legend Dharmendra, the 1960s’ heartthrob, has won the hearts of millions with his charm and talent. He made his debut with the film ‘Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere’, which started his long journey in films. While he climbed the ladder of success, his personal life had its own share of stories. Dharmendra has been married twice and is a father to six children, Sunny, Bobby, Ajeeta, Vijeta, Esha, and Ahana. While Sunny and Bobby are well known Bollywood actors today, Dharmendra’s daughters, especially Ajeeta and Vijeta, prefer to live private lives away from the limelight.

As reported by India.com and the Statesman, Ajeeta Deol works as a psychology teacher at a school in San Francisco, USA. She is married to Indian-American dentist Kiran Chaudhary. The couple has two daughters, Nikita and Priyanka Chaudhary. Nikita is a dentist, while Priyanka is both a dentist and a cosmetologist. Despite her family’s fame, Ajeeta has chosen a private life, far from Bollywood.

Dharmendra named his production company, Vijeta Production Private Limited, after her. Vijeta is married to businessman Vivek Gill, and they live in Delhi. The couple has two children, Prerna Gill, who is a writer and editor, and their son, Sahil Gill. Vijeta is also the director of Rajkamal Holdings and Trading Private Limited. Like her sister, she has stayed away from films and focused on her family and career.

harmendra has been in the limelight for years now but despite experiencing stardom and fame in such a huge way, the actor has always chased his 'peace and quiet'. The testament to that is how he loves spending time at his farmhouse. His sprawling 100-acre farmhouse, wrapped in greenery, fields, and meandering paths, is where the veteran actor now spends most of his day, far removed from the chaos of Mumbai.

This isn’t a lavish showpiece or a celebrity’s vanity retreat. It’s a space that has grown slowly, lovingly, over decades, a place where Dharmendra has chosen simplicity over spectacle. Nestled deep within nature, the property feels completely cut off from city noise, perfectly suited to a man who has often said that, at heart, he loves “soil, crops, open skies and the everyday rhythm of the outdoors.”

Having grown up in Sahnewal, Punjab, Dharmendra’s connection to farming runs deep. For him, agriculture wasn’t a poetic escape or a trendy pursuit, it was simply a way of life. That deep-rooted instinct never left him, even after he became one of Hindi cinema’s most beloved stars.

The Deols are known for their warmth, love and strong family bond, but even the most affectionate parents have their moments of discipline. Veteran actor Dharmendra recently shared a rare and amusing memory from Sunny Deol’s childhood — the only time he ever slapped his son.“Once I had slapped Sunny. He was small at that time, and I had gotten him a shotgun, and he had broken all the windows of the neighbour’s house,” Dharmendra recalled with a laugh during his appearance on The RKB Show . “That was the only time I slapped him, but I kept calling back home to ask how he was after going to the studio,” he added, revealing the soft side behind the rare moment of anger.

Veteran Bollywood legend Dharmendra, is a true living legend, celebrated for an unparalleled career spanning over six decades. Earlier this year he took a trip down memory lane, sharing a priceless throwback photo with his Instagram followers. The picture captures a pure fanboy moment with the legendary actor Ashok Kumar, fondly known as "Dada Muni."

The black-and-white photograph shows a smiling Dharmendra standing next to Ashok Kumar as the legend signs an autograph for him, not on a piece of paper, but on a hundred-rupee note. The two actors are seen sharing the moment with director Asit Sen and actor Mohan Choti.

Dharmendra accompanied the post with a heartfelt caption, "Friends, an autograph from Dada Muni on hundred rupees note. lovely memories. Director Asht sen and Mohan choti are watching thirdly." The post highlights a cherished moment from his early days, long before he became a cinema icon himself.

This viral video, popping up 32 years later, by a fan page of Shah Rukh Khan on Instagram, really shows what the industry was like back then. The clip comes from the music launch of the film 'Dil Aashna Hai', which was Hema Malini's directorial debut. The main focus of the video was the film's lead actress, Divya Bharti, who was quickly becoming a massive star. She looked stunning as she made her entrance in a vibrant purple suit, with all the cameras flashing just for her. Also on stage were the icons Dharmendra and Hema Malini, who were directing the film. And over on the side? A young Shah Rukh Khan, looking a bit shy in his formal suit, long before he became the 'King of Bollywood'.

Hema had opened up on her about her relationship with Dharmendra and Prakash Kaur in her authorised biography, 'Hema Malini: Beyond the Dream Girl', written by Ram Kamal Mukherjee. Before marrying Dharmendra, Hema and Prakash had met briefly at social gatherings, but they never interacted again afterward. The actor, who shares daughters Esha Deol and Ahana Deol with Dharmendra, spoke of the respect she holds for Prakash Kaur and her family."Today I am a working woman and I maintained my dignity because I dedicated my life to art and culture. If the situation had been slightly different, I might not be what I am today. Although I never spoke about Prakash, I respect her greatly. My daughters also respect Dharam ji's family. The world wants to know everything about my life, but that is not for others to know. It is no one's business," the book quotes Hema as saying.

Once, veteran actor Dharmendra delighted his fans with a heartfelt throwback post showing a cherished moment with Jaya Bachchan. Taking to his Instagram handle, he posted a picture likely taken on the sets of ‘Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani’, the film they both starred in, released a few years back. The actor accompanied the photo with a heartfelt caption, lovingly calling Jaya his "loving doll" and applauding her exceptional talent. He expressed, "Guddi, will always be my loving doll. She is a world-class artist, and she always talks high about me. (From Guddi to Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani)."

Dharmendra and Jaya’s connection began with the 1971 classic ‘Guddi’, where Jaya portrayed a schoolgirl smitten by Dharmendra, who appeared as himself in a cameo role. Directed by Hrishikesh Mukherjee, the film became a defining moment for Jaya, celebrated as a charming exploration of youthful fantasies and the realities that follow.

The early days of Bollywood were not just about work and competition; they were also about deep friendships that stood the test of time. One such bond was between veteran stars Dharmendra and the late Manoj Kumar.During the trailer launch of his film ‘Jaat’ earlier this year, actor Sunny Deol shared a heartfelt story about his father, Dharmendra’s friendship with Manoj Kumar. The emotional moment reminded everyone of the golden era of cinema, where relationships in the industry were built on trust and love.

Recalling their close bond, as quoted by NDTV, the ‘Damini’ actor said, "Manojji came with our dad only. They both were together in the industry. He had always been a father figure for us, and I have always seen him with my father during childhood. My dad had a great connection with him. I would just say that the films that he did were on India, bahut pyaari thi. Usi se deshbhakti ka silsila shuru hua tha (They were lovely. The tradition of patriotic films started with that)."

Prem Chopra, the 90-year-old actor known for his iconic villainous roles in Bollywood, was also admitted to the hospital and is now recovering well. According to his son-in-law, doctors are expected to discharge him soon. However, rather than worrying about himself, Prem Chopra has been deeply concerned about Dharmendra’s health. The two are of the same age, and this shows the depth of their friendship.

Prem’s son-in-law, Vikas Bhalla, issued a statement saying, "These are all unnecessary speculations. He is absolutely fine and is undergoing some routine check-ups. He should be back home by tomorrow. He’s doing perfectly well. He was only admitted for regular medical tests due to some age-related issues and a minor infection. All the tests have been completed, and fortunately, everything turned out normal. When I visited him this morning, he was completely fine and cheerful, but of course, he was concerned about Dharmendra ji’s health."

Veteran actor Dharmendra was discharged from Breach Candy Hospital on Wednesday morning, days after being admitted for routine tests. His family and doctor confirmed that the 89-year-old will continue his recovery at home under medical supervision. Amid speculation about his health, the family issued a statement requesting privacy and reassuring fans that the beloved actor is doing well.

Sharing her thoughts, Hema Malini admitted that the past few days have been emotionally draining. “It has not been an easy time for me,” she told Subhash K Jha.“Dharamji's health is a matter of great concern for us. His children are sleepless. I can't afford to be weak, too many responsibilities. But yes, I am happy he's back home. We are relieved he is out of hospital. He needs to be among the people he loves. Baki toh sab oopar wale ke haath mein hai (Everything else is in the hands of the Almighty). Please pray for us,” she concluded.

Veteran actor Dharmendra was discharged from the hospital on the morning of November 12 and will now be receiving treatment at home. After his early morning discharge, doctors from Breach Candy Hospital visited the actor’s Mumbai residence to monitor his health.

Dharmendra was discharged from Breach Candy Hospital on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at approximately 7:30 a.m., after his family, including sons Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, decided to continue his treatment at home. One saw doctors arriving at his house in the afternoon after his discharge.

Breach Candy doctor Pratit Samdani told PTI, “Dharmendra ji was discharged from the hospital around 7:30 a.m. He will be treated at home as the family has decided to give him treatment at home."Sunny Deol’s team also clarified that Dharmendra has been discharged from the hospital. The actor’s team, in an official statement, shared: “Mr. Dharmendra has been discharged from the hospital and will continue his recovery at home. We kindly request the media and the public to refrain from any further speculation and to respect his and the family’s privacy during this time. We appreciate everyone’s love, prayers, and good wishes for his continued recovery, good health, and long life. Please respect him because he loves you."