Shirdi Ke Saibaba actor Sudhir Dalvi hospitalized due to severe Sepsis, family appeals for Rs 15 lakh to cover treatment costs

Shirdi Ke Saibaba actor Sudhir Dalvi hospitalized due to severe Sepsis, family appeals for Rs 15 lakh to cover treatment costs

Veteran actor Sudhir Dalvi, best known for his divine portrayal of Sai Baba in Manoj Kumar’s 1977 classic Shirdi Ke Saibaba, has been hospitalized at Lilavati Hospital in Mumbai since October 8, 2025. The 86-year-old actor is battling severe sepsis, a life-threatening infection that requires urgent and intensive medical care.

Dalvi’s condition has placed his family in a difficult financial situation. His medical bills have already crossed ₹10 lakh, and doctors estimate the total cost of treatment could reach around Rs 15 lakh. His family has now appealed for financial help from fans and members of the film fraternity. In a heartfelt message, a family member shared, “We are doing everything we can to ensure his recovery, but the expenses are beyond our means. We humbly request everyone who has loved his work to come forward and help us in this critical time.”

Sudhir Dalvi’s acting career spans decades across film, television, and theatre, but it was Shirdi Ke Saibaba that turned him into a cultural icon. His portrayal of the saint was marked by serenity and spiritual authenticity that resonated deeply with millions of devotees across India. The image of Dalvi as Sai Baba became so iconic that he continued to be associated with the role throughout his career, appearing in related television shows and devotional events.

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Industry colleagues and admirers have begun sharing messages of support. A veteran TV director said, “Sudhir ji gave life to a character that brought faith and peace to countless people. It’s heartbreaking to see him in this condition. I hope the industry stands by him the way he has stood for his art.”

As one of Indian cinema’s most respected character actors, Dalvi’s contribution goes far beyond his most famous role. He appeared in acclaimed films like Anand Ashram, Julie, and Nastik, and was a familiar face in popular TV serials through the 80s and 90s. Yet, despite his long career, the financial challenges many veteran actors face in old age remain stark reminders of the industry’s fragile safety net.

The family’s appeal concludes with a simple plea: “We request all those who remember him as Sai Baba or have admired his work to come forward. Every contribution, no matter how small, will make a difference.”