Mumbai: Veteran poet Javed Akhtar fell victim to a false tale regarding iconic actor Dharmendra’s death, which quickly propagated on social media.
The misunderstanding was quickly clarified when Hema Malini stepped in to confirm her husband’s survival and deny the misleading rumours about Dharmendra’s health. Hema voiced her outrage and disappointment at the circulation of false information, refuting claims that the 89-year-old legend had died.
On Tuesday, Javed took to his X handle and tweeted, “With Dharm Ji, an era of the Indian film industry has come to its end. He was a perfect combination of masculinity and gentleness. Dignity and humility. Charm and power. Anyone who looks at his body of work will know that he was an actor for all the seasons.”
“He was a kind and polite person with a heart of gold. My deepest condolences to the Deol family. We who have been fortunate enough to work with him will always miss him,” the lyricist added.
Javed Akhtar has shared a long and warm association with Dharmendra, having worked with him on several memorable projects over the years. Along with Salim Khan, Akhtar co-wrote the iconic “Sholay,” which featured Dharmendra and Amitabh Bachchan in lead roles. Their professional bond began in 1969 with “Yakeen,” where Akhtar penned the dialogues. The connection extends to Akhtar’s wife, Shabana Azmi, who has also collaborated with Dharmendra on multiple occasions, most recently in “Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani.”
Meanwhile, unsubstantiated claims of Dharmendra’s death spread on social media late last night. However, the veteran actor’s family quickly intervened to put the allegations to rest. Both Hema Malini and Esha Deol resorted to social media to make strong statements criticising media outlets for propagating false and misleading information.
Hema Malini wrote, “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.”
Esha Deol shared an update on her father’s health, confirming that he is stable and recovering well in the hospital. Esha wrote, “The media seems to be in overdrive and spreading false news. My father is stable & recovering. We request that everyone to give our family privacy. Thank you for the prayers for Papa’s speedy recovery. Esha Deol. (sic)”
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Photo: IANS/File
–IANS
