Veteran actor-producer Dheeraj Kumar hospitalised in critical condition, on ventilator support in ICU due to acute pneumonia
Dheeraj Kumar
, a respected figure in Indian cinema and television, has been admitted to Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital in Mumbai's Andheri area after his health deteriorated on Monday.
The 79-year-old is reportedly suffering from acute pneumonia and is currently on ventilator support in the ICU.
In an official statement, his family and production team confirmed the news, stating that he is under close observation by doctors and receiving all necessary medical treatment.
'The family requests prayers for his speedy recovery and urges everyone to respect their privacy during this difficult time,' the statement read.
A career that began with Rajesh Khanna and Subhash Ghai
Dheeraj
Kumar entered the entertainment industry in 1965, having been one of the finalists in a talent contest alongside Subhash Ghai and Rajesh Khanna, who went on to win the competition.
Over the years, Dheeraj carved a unique path for himself, acting in 21 Punjabi films between 1970 and 1984. He later transitioned to television production, founding the popular banner Creative Eye, under which he created several iconic TV shows.
He continues to serve as its chairman and managing director.
Among his memorable film roles, he appeared in classics like Swami, where the evergreen song 'Ka Karoon Sajani, Aaye Na Balam' was picturised on him, Heera Panna, and Raaton Ka Raja, among others.
Dheeraj Kumar talks about the re-run of his directorial show Om Namah Shivay
His last public appearance
Before his hospitalisation, Dheeraj Kumar attended the inauguration ceremony of the ISKCON temple in the Kharghar area of Navi Mumbai.
At the event, he had expressed his admiration for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his support for the spread of Sanatan Dharma.
'I came here with a sense of humility. While they called me the VVIP, I believe the true VVIP is God,' he had said at the time.
'Prime Minister Modi spoke about the grandeur and significance of the ISKCON temple, and his words are always inspiring... The spiritual importance of phrases like 'Radhe Radhe Krishna Krishna' is very significant, and I feel peaceful visiting this temple.'
The film and television fraternity, along with fans across the country, are hoping for Dheeraj Kumar's speedy recovery.
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