In a strongly worded Instagram Story, Karan urged photographers and media outlets to show empathy and decency toward the Deol family, who are already going through an emotionally trying period.
Karan Johar’s Emotional Appeal: “Please Leave the Family Alone”
Karan Johar, who worked with Dharmendra in the 2023 blockbuster Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani, expressed his heartbreak over the way the veteran actor’s private health situation was being sensationalized.
On Thursday, Karan posted a heartfelt message on Instagram, writing: “When basic courtesy and sensitivity leaves our hearts and our actions, we know we are a doomed race.”
He continued, “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.”
Karan’s statement struck a chord with fans and industry colleagues alike, many of whom echoed his call for compassion and restraint from the media.
Sunny Deol’s Heated Confrontation with Paparazzi Outside His Home
Karan’s post came shortly after a viral incident involving Sunny Deol, who lost his temper at photographers stationed outside his residence in Mumbai. Frustrated by the constant intrusion, Sunny stepped out of his house and scolded the paparazzi for crowding the area and filming without regard for the family’s emotional state.
In a video that quickly spread online, the visibly upset actor folded his hands and said: “Aap logon ko sharam aani chahiye… Aapke ghar mein maa-baap hain, bacche hain… Ch******n ki tarah video le rahe ho… Sharam nahi aati?”
(“You people should be ashamed of yourselves. You also have parents and children… yet you’re shooting videos like fools. Don’t you feel any shame?”)
The actor’s outburst was a rare public display of anger from Sunny, known for his composed demeanor. It reflected the Deol family’s growing frustration with the constant media presence outside their home following Dharmendra’s hospitalization.
Dharmendra’s Discharge and the Family’s Plea for Privacy
On Wednesday, veteran actor Dharmendra was discharged from Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai, where he had been receiving treatment. Following his return home, Sunny Deol’s team issued an official statement confirming that the actor’s recovery would continue under home care.
The statement read: “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.”
Sunny’s team also expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support and prayers from fans and well-wishers: “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.”
Despite the family’s repeated appeals, paparazzi continued to camp outside the Deol residence, prompting both Sunny’s outburst and Karan Johar’s public intervention.
Karan Johar and Dharmendra’s Special Bond
Karan Johar’s message carried added emotional weight, given his close association with Dharmendra. The legendary actor appeared in Karan’s 2023 film “Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani,” playing the affectionate grandfather of Ranveer Singh’s character. Dharmendra’s performance, especially in the film’s romantic and emotional sequences, was widely praised and marked a heartwarming return to the silver screen.
In several interviews during the film’s promotions, Karan had expressed his admiration for Dharmendra, calling him “one of the most gracious and charming legends of Indian cinema.” His latest post, therefore, came not just from professional respect but also from genuine personal affection.
Social Media Reactions: Fans and Celebrities Support Karan’s Message
Following Karan Johar’s Instagram note, many fans and industry figures voiced agreement with his sentiment. Social media users flooded platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram with comments condemning the media’s behavior.
One fan wrote, “Karan Johar is absolutely right. Dharmendra deserves dignity and peace, not flashing cameras during his recovery.”
Another commented, “Sunny Deol was right to call them out. The paparazzi need to learn boundaries.”
This growing support reflects a wider concern among both celebrities and audiences about the erosion of privacy in the age of constant digital exposure.
Dharmendra’s Upcoming Film and Current Health Status
Despite recent health challenges, Dharmendra continues to remain active in cinema. After his acclaimed performance in Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani, he will next appear in Sriram Raghavan’s film “Ikkis,” slated for release in December 2025.
Fans are eagerly awaiting updates on his health, hoping to see the veteran icon back in good spirits soon. Sources close to the family have confirmed that Dharmendra is recovering steadily and surrounded by loved ones, including sons Sunny and Bobby Deol, and wife Hema Malini.
Respect for Legends: A Reminder for the Media
The recent incidents involving Sunny Deol’s confrontation and Karan Johar’s statement have reignited the debate over media ethics and sensitivity in India’s entertainment industry.
While the paparazzi play a vital role in keeping fans connected to their favorite stars, there’s a fine line between coverage and intrusion. In moments of illness or grief, empathy should take precedence over sensationalism.
Karan Johar’s heartfelt message serves as a timely reminder that even icons like Dharmendra, who have dedicated their lives to cinema, deserve respect, peace, and privacy — especially during vulnerable times.
Conclusion: Bollywood Unites in Support of Dharmendra
As the Deol family navigates this difficult phase, voices across Bollywood — from Sunny Deol’s passionate plea to Karan Johar’s emotional appeal — are uniting to protect the dignity of one of India’s most beloved stars.
Dharmendra’s legacy as the “He-Man” of Bollywood continues to inspire generations, and fans around the world are hoping for his swift and full recovery.
The message is clear: respect the legend, let him heal in peace, and allow the family their well-deserved privacy.
