(MENAFN- Khaleej Times)

Fans of Indian veteran actor Dharmendra woke up to news of his demise on Tuesday, only to realise soon after that the 89-year-old actor was still in hospital, undergoing treatment. Multiple media outlets prematurely declared him dead, prompting an outpouring of tributes on social media from fans.

Khaleej Times reached out to the family, who denied the reports, clarifying that the superstar was admitted to the hospital after experiencing breathlessness.

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Many prominent personalities fell victim to the false reports and were quick to post condolences on social media. India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh posted on X, "Deeply saddened by the demise of veteran actor and former MP Shri Dharmendra ji." Superstar Chiranjeevi said, "My heartfelt condolences on his passing. May his noble soul rest in eternal peace." The posts have been deleted since.

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Family blasts media

His wife and actor-politician Hema Malini, and their elder daughter Esha Deol, took to social media to set the record straight.

"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 posted on X.

"The media seems to be in overdrive and spreading false news. My father is stable & recovering," Esha said in a post on Instagram.

Latest update on Dharmendra's health

An official statement from Dharmendra's elder son, Sunny Deol's team, followed soon after.

"Sir is recovering and responding to treatment, let's all pray for his good health and long life," a member of Sunny's team handling the official communication told Khaleej Times. Dharmendra was admitted to the hospital after complaining of breathlessness, they added.

Sunny Deol is at the hospital with his brother Bobby and son Karan, closely monitoring the health of their father.

Misleading reports in the last 24 hours

For the second time in 24 hours, Dharmendra was presumed dead, leaving fans alarmed. His family, however, expressed shock over the false reports.

On Monday, several reports also claimed that his condition had worsened and he was on a ventilator. Clarifying the situation, sources close to the family confirmed that the actor was not on ventilator support and is recuperating under observation at Mumbai's Breach Candy Hospital.

By evening, his team had appealed to the public to pray for his speedy recovery while respecting the family's privacy.

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