Dharmendra's Health Problems Before His Death at 89: Know About His Cornea Surgery to Breathing Trouble

Veteran Bollywood legend Dharmendra, aged 89, passed away recently but his health had been in the headlines for months before his death. His health was a subject of concern for months, especially after a widely circulated death hoax that triggered confusion. After earlier confusion and even death hoaxes, his final decline brought attention to his serious medical issues. While fans mourn, it’s worth looking back at the health struggles he faced: eye surgery, respiratory distress, and more, which likely played a part in his weakening health.

Breathing Troubles and Hospitalisation

The Full Video From Dharmendra ji
His discharge from the Hospital
But health is not Well

Please Pray For Dharmendra ji 🙏 #DharmendraDeol #dharmendra pic.twitter.com/D7Z56vrbVo

— Jolly Christian (@Jolly7294) November 13, 2025

• Dharmendra's breathing difficulties became prominent in late October 2025. 
• On the night of October 31, he was rushed to Mumbai's Breach Candy Hospital after experiencing sudden breathlessness. 
• The respiratory distress was severe enough to require ICU care and close monitoring. 
• Reports indicate he was supported by ventilators and other critical care measures. 
• Although discharged on November 12, his lung health remained a significant concern in his last weeks.

ALSO READ: Dharmendra Dies At 89: Amitabh Bachchan, Hema Malini and Family Reach Cremation Centre For Last Rites

Cornea / Eye Surgery

 

 

 

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• In April 2025, Dharmendra reportedly underwent a corneal transplant (eye graft surgery) after his left cornea had clouded. 
• This surgery is used to restore vision or reduce pain and blurriness; in his case, media quoted him saying with a smile, “Abhi bhi bohut damm hai… Mere aankh mein graft hua hai.” (“I still have a lot of strength… I had a graft in my eye.”) 
• Earlier in the year (around April), he was seen wearing an eye bandage, suggesting recovery from the graft.

ALSO READ: When Dharmendra Underwent A Corneal Transplantation: Exploring The Eye Surgery

Knee and Joint Issues Through The Years

• Reports across decades note that Dharmendra had surgeries and joint complaints in the past. 
• He had been linked to earlier knee surgery and surgery-related hospital visits in older reports. 
• Age-related joint stiffness and lower stamina were repeatedly mentioned as part of his gradual decline in physical resilience.
• Joint problems, even when treated, make recovery from other illnesses harder for seniors.

ALSO READ: When 89-year-old Dharmendra Shared Glimpses From His Physiotherapy Session; Experts Share Its Benefits For Elderly

Blood Pressure, Weakness and Hospital Visits (2018–2020)

• Between about 2018 and 2020, Dharmendra had several brief medical visits for weakness, dehydration and fluctuating blood pressure. 
• These were described as manageable at the time, but episodic dehydration, low energy and blood-pressure instability are warning signs in older adults. 
• They indicate reduced physiological reserve and greater vulnerability during acute illnesses. 

Back Pain, Muscle Pull and Past Hospital Stays

• Dharmendra’s history shows recurrent episodes of back pain and muscle strain. In 2022, he was hospitalised after suffering a severe muscle pull in his back. 
• Media reports at the time said the injury followed overexertion during shooting. Such injuries are common in older adults and can lead to short hospital stays for pain control, rest and physical therapy. 
• These episodes likely reduced his mobility and overall stamina in later years.

How Do These Issues Add Up?

Individually, many of Dharmendra’s health events were manageable. Taken together, they show a common pattern in late life: a mix of chronic wear (joints, eyes), episodic decompensations (muscle pull, dehydration) and an acute respiratory decline. Each episode can weaken reserves and make recovery from the next event harder. For public figures, media attention often magnifies anxiety around these normal geriatric problems.

ALSO READ: From Anunay Sood’s Death to Dharmenda and Govinda’s Hospitalisation: Celebrities Who’ve Been in News for Medical Reasons

Dharmendra’s Final Days and Legacy

Dharmendra’s cinematic legacy is rich and vast. With over six decades in the industry and numerous iconic films like Sholay, Phool Aur Patthar, and Hum Dono, he defined the archetype of Bollywood’s hero. Known as “He-Man,” his charm and screen presence captivated audiences worldwide. Despite health struggles, Dharmendra remained a cultural symbol, inspiring many.

His death sparked an outpouring of grief and tributes from fans, celebrities, and colleagues alike. Amitabh Bachchan, Hema Malini, and others paid heartfelt respects at his funeral in Mumbai. The nation mourns the loss of an irreplaceable legend whose contributions transcended generations.

Conclusion

Dharmendra’s final years were marked by significant health battles from corneal surgery and breathing struggles to joint pains and blood pressure issues. These challenges remind us of the vulnerabilities accompanying ageing, even for the mightiest icons. Celebrating his life and work honors a career that shaped Indian cinema and left an indelible mark on millions of hearts.