Veteran actor Sudhir Dalvi, best known for his iconic portrayal of Sai Baba in Manoj Kumar`s 1977 classic Shirdi Ke Saibaba, has reportedly been battling for his life. He has been hospitalised for severe sepsis. The actor`s family has sought financial aid to meet the growing expenses of his treatment.
Sudhir Dalvi batting for life
The actor has been admitted to Lilavati Hospital in Mumbai since October 8, 2025 and is reportedly suffering from severe sepsis, a serious and potentially life-threatening infection that demands intensive medical care. According to a report in Movie Talkies, the 86-year-old actor`s medical expenses have already crossed Rs 10 lakh. Meanwhile, the doctors estimate that the total cost of his treatment could reach Rs 15 lakh.
The actor`s family has allegedly expressed worry over the rising expenses and has requested that fans and the film fraternity offer financial assistance to support his ongoing care. As soon as the news went viral on social media, Ranbir Kapoor’s sister, Riddhima Kapoor Sahni, was among the first people to respond. She donated to the expenses and wished Dalvi strength and recovery. Commenting under the post which sought support, Riddhima wrote, “Done (folded hands emoji) wishing him a speedy recovery.”
One user questioned her act of commenting after she had donated, saying, “Why did u mention here if you have helped .. footage chahiye?” Riddhima gracefully hit back by firmly replying, “Everything in life is not about optics– Helping someone in need and in whatever capacity you can is the biggest blessing.”
About Sudhir Dalvi
Sudhir Dalvi is a memorable figure in Indian cinema and television. He played the role of Sai Baba in the 1977 classic Shirdi Ke Saibaba, which to date continues to be celebrated. Similarly, his appearance in TV serials such as Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, Jai Hanuman, Vishnu Puran, and others made him a familiar face on Indian television.
He was also seen as Rishi Vashishtha in Ramayan (1987), as well as in films like Junoon (1978) and Chandni (1989). He was last seen in Woh Huye Na Hamare in 2006 after Xcuse Me in 2003.
