01 September,2026 04:58 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Ranbir Kapoor, Sudhir Dalvi, Kartik Aaryan, pic source: Instagram
Veteran actor Sudhir Dalvi, best remembered for essaying Sai Baba in the 1977 classic Shirdi Ke Sai Baba, is now gradually recovering at home after a severe health crisis. The 86-year-old actor was admitted to Mumbai's Lilavati Hospital on October 7, 2025 and remained there until November 7 after being diagnosed with sepsis, a life-threatening blood infection.
The illness severely hampered his joints and caused a loss of limb mobility, leading him to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). As per NDTV's report, the veteran actor's family was struggling to bear the escalating expenses of his ongoing treatement. Sources confirmed to NDTV that the hospital bill had already surpassed Rs 19 lakh, and doctors estimated the total amount could reach around Rs 15 lakh.
To aid his treatment expenses, the Bombay High Court, in December 2025, allowed the Shree Saibaba Sansthan Trust to donate Rs 11 lakh to ensure he received the essential medical care. Besides that, Bollywood personalities including Kartik Aaryan, Ranbir Kapoor, and Akshay Kumar came forward with financial aid.
Sudhir Dalvi's wife Suhas Dalvi shared how hospital expenses were tough to tackle during that time. She also shared that the veteran actor is currently fine and can walk with support. Bollyspice quoted her saying, "He is at home now. He still has to walk with the help of a walker, and his mind is disoriented. But he is happy to be home. So am I. The hospital was not only expensive, but the aura of being in a hospital is also very intimidating for a patient."
She confirmed that the film industry has been courteous and helpful. "When the news spread that we were unable to meet hospital bills, many from the film industry came forward to help financially. I can't immediately recall all the names. But Kartik Aaryan, Ranbir Kapoor, and Akshay Kumar were among the first to help. There were so many others from the film industry and outside. My husband is best known for playing Sai Baba. So many Sai bhakts came forward to help. Who says we've become a heartless people? The love and generosity after my husband's illness is overwhelming."
Sudhir Dalvi's wife said the veteran actor needs prayer, not monetary assistance. "In fact, we request the film association, which is so kindly sending money every month, to use that money for someone needier. My husband has received all the medical help he could get. Now it is just prayers that he needs. His recovery is slow. I am myself old and asthmatic. But I am doing my best to look after both of us."
