Social media and several Indian news outlets were abuzz morning with reports claiming that veteran Bollywood actor Dharmendra had passed away at the age of 89.
However, the actor’s daughter, Esha Deol, has strongly refuted the rumours, confirming that her father is “absolutely fine.”
Taking to social media, Esha urged fans and media to refrain from spreading false information, saying, “There is no truth to these rumours. Papa is healthy and doing well. Please don’t believe or forward such fake news.”
Earlier in the day, several unverified reports suggested that Dharmendra had been admitted to Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital and had passed away due to health complications. The rumours quickly went viral, prompting concern among fans and members of the film fraternity.
Following Esha’s clarification, representatives close to the Deol family also confirmed that Dharmendra is stable, and speedily recovering.
Known fondly as the “He-Man” of Bollywood, Dharmendra, who turned 89 this year, remains one of Indian cinema’s most celebrated actors, with a career spanning over six decades and more than 250 films to his credit.
The actor was last seen on screen in “Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahani” and is expected to appear next in “Ekkis,” set to release on December 25.
Fans across the country expressed relief after the clarification, while many criticised media outlets for spreading unverified reports about the veteran star’s health.
The incident once again highlights the growing issue of fake news and misinformation on social media, especially concerning public figures.
