The Indian film industry was thrown into turmoil on Tuesday morning as false reports of veteran actor Dharmendra’s demise spread rapidly. The 89-year-old icon, known for his illustrious career in Bollywood, was incorrectly declared dead by multiple media outlets, leading to an outpouring of tributes on social media. However, the actor’s family swiftly refuted the claims, clarifying that Dharmendra is hospitalized and responding to treatment. Khaleej Times confirmed the news after reaching out to the family, who revealed that the actor was admitted due to breathlessness. Prominent figures, including India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and superstar Chiranjeevi, initially posted condolences on social media but later deleted their messages upon learning the truth. Dharmendra’s wife, Hema Malini, and daughter Esha Deol, expressed their frustration over the irresponsible reporting, urging the media to respect the family’s privacy. An official statement from Sunny Deol’s team confirmed that Dharmendra is recovering and under close medical supervision at Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital. The family has appealed for prayers and privacy during this challenging time. This incident marks the second time in 24 hours that false reports about Dharmendra’s health have caused alarm, highlighting the need for responsible journalism.
分类: entertainment
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UAE got world’s tallest hotel, sent a probe to Mars, and gamers are still waiting for ‘GTA 6’
As the gaming world eagerly anticipates the release of ‘Grand Theft Auto 6’ (GTA 6), now delayed until November 19, 2026, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has been making headlines with a series of groundbreaking achievements. From technological advancements to cultural milestones, the UAE has accomplished a remarkable array of feats while Rockstar Games continues to perfect its highly anticipated open-world game. Here’s a look at some of the UAE’s most notable accomplishments since the release of ‘GTA 5’ in 2013. In 2017, the UAE appointed the world’s first Minister of Artificial Intelligence, Omar Sultan Al Olama, signaling its commitment to innovation. The country’s ‘Hope Probe’ successfully reached Mars in 2021, capturing stunning images of the Red Planet. Meanwhile, the world’s tallest hotel, Ciel Dubai Marina, is set to open in November 2025, boasting 1,000+ rooms and standing at 365 meters tall. The UAE has also hosted major events like COP28 and Expo 2020, while pioneering advancements in driverless and airborne taxis. Additionally, the country has seen cultural phenomena such as Coldplay’s sold-out concerts in Abu Dhabi and the global popularity of Dubai’s viral chocolates. In the sports world, Cristiano Ronaldo’s move to Saudi Arabia and Lionel Messi’s World Cup victory have captivated fans. As the UAE continues to innovate and achieve, gamers worldwide are left wondering if the country will unveil even more marvels before ‘GTA 6’ finally hits the shelves.
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‘Mellon Blue’ diamond sells for $26.6 million at Swiss auction
A stunning 9.51-carat blue diamond, known as the ‘Mellon Blue,’ was sold for 20.5 million Swiss francs ($26.6 million) at a Christie’s auction in Geneva, Switzerland. The gem, named after the late American arts patron Rachel ‘Bunny’ Mellon, had been anticipated to fetch between $20 million and $30 million. The final price included the buyer’s premium and additional fees. Previously, the diamond was sold in 2014 for $32.6 million, marking one of the highest prices ever paid for a colored diamond at auction. The ‘Mellon Blue’ had been a prized possession in Mellon’s private collection for decades. Max Fawcett, Christie’s global head of jewelry, highlighted the diamond’s exceptional quality, describing it as a ‘gem of gems’ due to its Fancy Vivid Blue color and Internally Flawless grade, as certified by the Gemological Institute of America. The auction marked the beginning of a two-day jewelry event in Geneva, with Sotheby’s set to auction the ‘Glowing Rose’ pink diamond, expected to attract bids around $20 million.
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Esha Deol, Hema Malini deny Dharmendra’s death reports, blast media
Amid widespread rumors regarding the health of legendary Bollywood actor Dharmendra, his wife Hema Malini and daughter Esha Deol have vehemently denied false reports of his demise. The family has expressed outrage over irresponsible media coverage, urging the public and press to respect their privacy during this challenging time. Hema Malini took to social media to condemn the spread of misinformation, stating, ‘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.’ Esha Deol, 44, echoed her mother’s sentiments, confirming that her father is ‘stable and recovering’ and pleading with the media to refrain from disseminating baseless claims. The false reports gained traction after Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh mistakenly tweeted condolences, which were later deleted. Dharmendra, 89, is currently receiving treatment at Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai, where several Bollywood celebrities, including Salman Khan, Govinda, and Ameesha Patel, have visited to check on his condition. Family members, including sons Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, grandchildren Karan Deol and Rajveer Deol, and Hema Malini, have been by his side.
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Hema Malini says reports of Dharmendra’s death are ‘unforgivable and disrespectul’
Amid widespread speculation about Bollywood legend Dharmendra’s health, his wife, actress and politician Hema Malini, has vehemently denounced false media reports claiming his death. In a strongly worded post on X (formerly Twitter), Malini expressed her outrage, stating, ‘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.’ She further urged the public and media to respect the family’s privacy during this challenging time.
The controversy arose after several news outlets inaccurately reported Dharmendra’s demise, despite the actor being hospitalized and in stable condition. Their daughter, Esha Deol, also took to Instagram to clarify the situation, writing, ‘The media seems to be in overdrive and spreading false news. My father is stable & recovering. We request everyone to give our family privacy. Thank you for the prayers for papa’s speedy recovery.’
Dharmendra, a veteran of Indian cinema, has been under medical care at Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital. His family, including sons Sunny Deol and Bobby Deol, as well as grandchildren Karan Deol and Rajveer Deol, have been by his side. Prominent Bollywood figures such as Salman Khan, Govinda, and Ameesha Patel have also visited the hospital to check on his condition.
Sunny Deol, in an official statement, confirmed that his father remains stable and under observation. He requested the public to refrain from spreading rumors and to pray for Dharmendra’s swift recovery. The family has emphasized the importance of respecting their privacy as they navigate this sensitive period.
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Esha Deol denies father Dharmendra’s death reports by media
In a heartfelt Instagram post on Tuesday, Bollywood actress Esha Deol vehemently denied widespread media reports claiming the demise of her father, veteran actor Dharmendra. Addressing the public, Esha clarified that her father is “stable and recovering” and urged the media to refrain from spreading unverified news. She also requested respect for her family’s privacy during this challenging period. The false reports had earlier led to confusion, with Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh even tweeting condolences, which were later deleted. Esha’s statement aimed to quell the rumors and provide clarity amidst the misinformation circulating online. The incident highlights the need for responsible journalism, especially when dealing with sensitive personal matters involving public figures.
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Veteran Bollywood actor Dharmendra dies at 89 years old
The Indian film industry mourns the loss of one of its most iconic figures, Dharmendra, who passed away at the age of 89. The veteran actor, known for his charismatic performances and enduring contributions to Bollywood, breathed his last at Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital. Sources close to his family confirmed that he was not on ventilator support and was under medical observation prior to his demise. Dharmendra, who was set to celebrate his 90th birthday in December, had been hospitalized on October 31 for what was described as a routine medical check-up. His last appearance was in the 2023 film *Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani*, and he was slated to star in Sriram Raghavan’s upcoming war drama *Ikkis*, inspired by the life of Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, India’s youngest Param Vir Chakra recipient. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh expressed his grief on X, stating, ‘Deeply saddened by the demise of veteran actor and former MP Shri Dharmendra ji. A versatile actor who brought life to many memorable characters with his unmatched charm and sincerity. His remarkable contribution to Indian cinema will always be remembered. My heartfelt condolences to his family and admirers.’ Dharmendra’s career spanned over six decades, leaving an indelible mark on Indian cinema with his versatility and dedication.
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Squid Game star, 81, acquitted of sexual misconduct
Renowned South Korean actor O Yeong-Su, celebrated for his role in the global hit series *Squid Game*, has been acquitted of sexual misconduct charges by a South Korean court. The 81-year-old actor was initially charged in 2022 with allegations of sexually assaulting a woman twice in 2017. The accusations claimed that he had hugged and kissed the woman on the cheek without her consent. In 2024, Mr. O was found guilty and handed an eight-month suspended prison sentence, which he vowed to appeal. However, on Tuesday, the court overturned the verdict, citing his completion of sexual violence education and raising doubts about the alleged victim’s memory due to the time elapsed since the incident. The court emphasized that ‘when there is doubt, the defendant must be given the benefit of the doubt.’ Despite the acquittal, the court acknowledged the possibility of the assault, noting Mr. O’s prior apology to the victim. The alleged victim, however, expressed disappointment, vowing to ‘continue to speak the truth’ and stating that the ruling ‘does not invalidate the truth or erase the pain.’ Women’s rights organization Womenlink also condemned the decision, calling it a ‘concealment of sexual violence in the theatre world.’ Mr. O, who gained international acclaim for his performance in *Squid Game* and became the first South Korean actor to win a Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actor, expressed gratitude for the court’s ‘wise judgment.’ It remains unclear whether the prosecution will appeal the decision.
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AUS filmmaker’s ‘Halal Dreams’ heads to New York Short Film Festival
Professor Mohammed Mamdouh’s critically acclaimed docudrama, ‘Halal Dreams,’ continues its remarkable journey across the global film festival circuit with its upcoming premiere at the New York Short Film Festival this November. The film, which has already garnered multiple international awards in the USA, Thailand, and Russia, is also slated for screenings at the Culver City Film Festival in Los Angeles, the London Global Film Awards, and the Sokcho International Food Film Festival in South Korea. Set against the backdrop of a frigid New York City night, ‘Halal Dreams’ poignantly portrays the life of an Egyptian halal cart worker striving to maintain a connection with his daughter while navigating the relentless pace of urban life. Mamdouh, an Assistant Professor at the American University of Sharjah’s College of Architecture, Art and Design, shared that the film explores themes of distance and belonging, emphasizing the enduring ties to loved ones and cherished memories. The film has earned widespread acclaim, including Best Docudrama awards from the Los Angeles Short Film Award, Ural Shorts International Film Festival in Russia, and the Bangkok Movie Awards, as well as an Exceptional Merit distinction from the Documentaries Without Borders International Film Festival in California. Notably, ‘Halal Dreams’ was one of only 15 films selected from over a thousand submissions for the Sokcho International Food Film Festival. This success follows Mamdouh’s earlier short film, ‘The Keyboard,’ written by his wife, Jumana Radi, which has been showcased at more than 30 international festivals and won nine awards, including Best Experimental Film honors in New York, Tokyo, and London. Beyond his filmmaking achievements, Mamdouh brings nearly two decades of experience in the UAE’s media industry, spanning film, advertising, brand management, and education. At AUS, he mentors aspiring visual storytellers, teaching courses in film production, screenwriting, AI, documentary film, and media systems.
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Ariana Grande: Going brunette is not about saying goodbye to Glinda
Ariana Grande has recently made headlines with her dramatic hair transformation, swapping her signature blonde locks for a darker brunette tone. The 32-year-old singer and actress clarified that the change is not a farewell to her beloved character Glinda from ‘Wicked,’ but rather a fresh twist for the sequel, ‘Wicked: For Good.’ Grande explained that the new look aligns with the film’s darker themes and her desire to explore different styles. The premiere of the highly anticipated sequel took place in London’s Leicester Square, which was transformed into the magical Land of Oz, complete with a yellow brick road and vibrant pink and green decorations. Fans arrived in full costume, some dressed as witches and others channeling Glinda in sparkling gowns. Grande and her co-star Cynthia Erivo, who plays Elphaba, expressed their emotional connection to the project, with Grande stating, ‘This project will always be part of our lives.’ The sequel continues the story of Elphaba and Glinda, exploring their lives after their decision to part ways. Elphaba is now an enemy of Oz, while Glinda has become a public figure controlled by the Wizard. The film features returning cast members Michelle Yeoh, Jonathan Bailey, and Jeff Goldblum, with Bailey making history as People’s first openly gay ‘Sexiest Man Alive.’ The sequel introduces two new songs, which reportedly moved Grande and Erivo to tears during their first listen. ‘Wicked: For Good’ is set to hit cinemas on November 21, promising to captivate audiences with its enchanting narrative and stunning visuals.
