The recent media frenzy surrounding the health of iconic actors Dharmendra and Jeetendra has sparked a powerful outcry from Nikitin Dheer, who recently lost his father, veteran actor Pankaj Dheer. In a heartfelt Instagram post, Nikitin likened the paparazzi to "vultures," expressing deep disappointment with their insensitive coverage.
"It's like being surrounded by vultures," Nikitin wrote, reflecting on his own experience of losing a loved one and witnessing the media's exploitative behavior. The controversy intensified with the circulation of videos showing Jeetendra's fall at a prayer meet and another clip allegedly filmed inside the ICU, capturing Dharmendra's vulnerable state.
Nikitin's anger is palpable as he questions the paparazzi's lack of empathy: "How can you be so insensitive?" He calls for a collective awakening, asking if likes and views are all that define our society's values.
The outcry against the paparazzi's unethical behavior has united celebrities, with Ameesha Patel, Karan Johar, and Madhur Bhandarkar joining the call for privacy and respect. Sunny Deol, visibly upset, lashed out at photographers outside his residence, while Hema Malini shared an update on Dharmendra's health, expressing relief at his discharge but acknowledging the emotional toll it took.
"It's been an exhausting journey," Hema Malini said. "Dharamji's health is a constant worry. His children are sleepless. I have to stay strong, but I'm glad he's home now. We're grateful he's out of the hospital. He needs the comfort of his loved ones. The rest is in God's hands. Please pray for us."
This incident has sparked a much-needed conversation about the boundaries of media ethics and the importance of privacy and empathy towards celebrities and their families during difficult times.