KOLKATA – Veteran Bollywood and Hindi cinema actor Rajesh Sharma has been hospitalised after being bitten by a venomous insect during the shooting of South Indian superstar Prabhas’ upcoming film. Doctors say the actor’s condition remains serious.
The Indian media reported that Sharma is currently receiving treatment at Manipal Hospital in Dhakuria, Kolkata.
Actor Sudipa Chatterjee confirmed the development by sharing a press statement issued by Sharma’s family on social media, which revealed details of the incident and his deteriorating health.
The statement said the incident took place at Ramoji Film City in Hyderabad, where filming for Prabhas’ upcoming movie was underway. After the day’s shoot had wrapped up, Sharma was speaking with members of the local technical crew near a densely wooded area when he was bitten by an unidentified insect.
Believing the bite to be minor, the actor did not seek immediate medical treatment.
However, about six hours later, Sharma developed severe pain in his right leg. Despite his worsening condition, he boarded a flight to Kolkata, where he developed a high fever during the journey, causing his health to deteriorate further.
Doctors at Manipal Hospital said the venomous infection has spread from the toes of his right foot to his knee, resulting in extensive swelling and large blisters. They added that Sharma is also experiencing severe breathing difficulties and remains under close medical supervision.
Medical experts warned that the infection could lead to the formation of a blood clot in the affected leg. If the clot travels to the lungs, it could become life-threatening.
Hospital authorities said Rajesh Sharma is still not out of danger and continues to receive intensive treatment while doctors closely monitor his condition.
Rajesh Sharma is one of India’s most respected character actors, having appeared in numerous acclaimed Hindi and Bengali films. News of his illness has sparked concern among fans and colleagues, who have expressed their support and wished him a speedy recovery.
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